There are different schools of thought on what to do with pealed fruit. Bananas, oranges, and melon all have an outer peel that is not eaten. However if dirt or pesticides reside on outside of skin when you slice into fruit knife will carry possible contaminants directly into flesh of fruit. To be extra safe wash these fruits when you bring them home along with your apples and pears

•1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted for 1 clove of fresh garlic.

•1 pound of fresh mushrooms will be about same as a 10 ounce can of mushrooms.

•Powdered sugar can substitute for granulated sugar in baking. If you are looking for a delightful taste alternative try a cup of honey with a pinch of baking soda in place of a cup of granulated sugar.

•2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes is equivalent to a 16 ounce can of crushed tomatoes. You may have to drain can or adjust for moisture in recipe.

•Adding about 2 Tablespoons of molasses to a cup of granulated sugar will substitute well for a single cup of brown sugar.

•Sherry or port wine can be used instead of red or white wine. Just lower amount to 2 Tablespoons equals ½ cup.