I Must Recant

Tags

Detergent, Dishwasher, Hard water

Remember a mere two weeks ago when I told you homemade dishwasher detergent is where it’s at? I still stand by that statement. But not for people with hard water. Apparently, the first time I tried the stuff, it was a fluke. The second time I ran the dishwasher left me with glassware covered in residue. Sadness!

My immediate response was to go buy another box of the store bought product we know works well. We need clean dishes, after all. Before this box runs out, however, I’m going to do more research and change up the recipe. Stay tuned. I shall prevail.

Fajita Marinade Spice Mix

Tags

Fajita, Spice mix

You know those little packages of spice mixes you can buy in the store? You can find them for tacos, fajitas, dressings, soups, etc? Well, with the spices in your cabinet and approximately 5 minutes, you can make your own. Not only is it cost-effective, but it’s nicer for the environment, too. Less packaging!

Fajita Marinade Spice Mix

Based on Taste of Home

Yield: 4 batches of fajitas

You’ll need:

• 2 Tbs. salt
• 2 Tbs. oregano
• 2 Tbs. cumin
• 1 Tbs. + 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 2 tsp. chili powder
• 2 tsp. paprika
• 2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

Combine all ingredients in a jar and shake until mixed well.

To marinate fajita meat:

1. Shake the spices before each to use. Combine 2 Tbs. and 1 tsp. of the mix with 2 Tbs. of oil and 2 Tbs. of lemon juice.

2. Marinate 1 and a half pounds of your choice of meat, chopped into strips or shredded, for 1-4 hours.

3. Make your fajitas as you and your family prefer! This recipe will serve approximately 6.

Happy spicing!

Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

Tags

Detergent, Dishwasher, Do it yourself, Vinegar

How many of you out there make your own laundry detergent? I made my first batch awhile ago now, and I love it. It’s easy. It’s cheap. And it leaves my clothes clean and fresh.

It turns out making dishwasher detergent is even easier than laundry detergent, and it works just as well! You might even already have the supplies on hand.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup borax
• 1 cup washing soda (or baking soda will work, as well)
• Vinegar, as a rinse agent

Simply mix the borax and the soda, and you’re all set! Use about 2 Tbs. per load, with a splash of vinegar in the rinse agent dispenser.

I have seen some reviews stating homemade dishwasher detergent doesn’t work well if you have hard water. I’ll keep you posted if I change my mind and discover a residue building up on our glassware. Until then, I’m a believer!

UPDATE: Residue started to build up on my glasses. I blame our hard water. Stay tuned for more updates! If you have soft water, this recipe may still work well for you.