<p class="financial-disclaimer"><i>When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a></i></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071GRK9XK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B071GRK9XK&amp;linkId=c7514cc27036ff2e1c8dc8b5f26e570d7036ff2e1c8dc8b5f26e570d" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"></a></p><ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>The non-stick surface of ceramic pans and <keyword id="418044" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="cookware">cookware</keyword> make them extremely popular for home cooks.</strong></li><li><strong>Unfortunately, the ceramic surface stains easily if food is prepared at a high temperature, or it burns.</strong></li><li><strong>Keep your ceramic cookware looking like new with just some </strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073VRXPY3/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B073VRXPY3&amp;linkId=6afcd691050778dcf221f9edcf80d41c050778dcf221f9edcf80d41c" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><strong>baking soda</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bjs.com%2Fproduct%2Fdawn-platinum-refreshing-rain-dishwashing-liquid-dish-soap-2-pk40-fl-oz%2F3000000000001177092&amp;xcust=1590509316939asloc5bvy|xid:fr1590509319680hci19680hci" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><strong>dishwashing liquid</strong></a><strong>, and </strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LH1LG3U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B01LH1LG3U&amp;linkId=82b18ff5d4a9d93c6222f2e51dd12909d4a9d93c6222f2e51dd12909" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored"><strong>hydrogen peroxide</strong></a> and following these easy steps.</li></ul><p>Valued for its non-stick surface, ceramic cookware is free of harsh chemicals like PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethlene) and PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) that can release toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures. There are two very distinct types of cookware available that market themselves as ceramic cookware.</p><p>The most commonly sold pots and pans labeled as ceramic cookware are not 100% ceramic. Rather, they are made of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013FDOXJC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B013FDOXJC&amp;linkId=def55518778b6d747a6e6dddd11f94b1778b6d747a6e6dddd11f94b1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">cast iron</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008VFMAUO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B008VFMAUO&amp;linkId=8e80a0aad0f245ebf6e778b73653011bd0f245ebf6e778b73653011b" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">aluminum</a>, or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071GRK9XK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B071GRK9XK&amp;linkId=c7514cc27036ff2e1c8dc8b5f26e570d7036ff2e1c8dc8b5f26e570d" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">stainless steel</a> with a ceramic coating bonded to the interior surface of the cookware. You receive the non-toxic, non-stick benefits of ceramic but still have the heat-conducting capabilities of the metal at a reasonable price.</p><p>There are also 100-percent ceramic cookware pieces available from <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X8YNRFB/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07X8YNRFB&amp;linkId=78e8d8f321228dd0e4b1724c3a408c9f21228dd0e4b1724c3a408c9f" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Xtrema</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008XWUKZM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B008XWUKZM&amp;linkId=7d85afe204ff637aac7d15e1dca980b104ff637aac7d15e1dca980b1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Corningware</a>. Using no metal, the cookware is formed from clay that is fired at extremely high temperatures to make it durable. Both the interior and exterior are highly polished and the pieces can be used in the oven, on the stovetop, in the microwave, or to store refrigerated food.</p><p>Both types of ceramic cookware should be cleaned in the same way to prevent staining and excessive wear to the interior finish.</p><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5dc0a0403afd372f4a46980c&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd38ad4dca681bd141395a&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd39bff34d0514d860c494&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd3b2d5af6cc190405a12d&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd3de7aee6a80ed473507a&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><h2><strong>Steps for <keyword id="6412409" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Cleaning">cleaning</keyword> ceramic cookware</strong></h2><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007FDU05A/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B007FDU05A&amp;linkId=8699f6b970154667b5ab8f18a46d0ef270154667b5ab8f18a46d0ef2" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><strong><div type="image" title="Envision Kitchen Cloth" height="900" width="1200" msid="76075362" hostid="261"></div></strong></a></p><p>While some manufacturers say their cookware can be placed in an automatic dishwasher, others recommend hand-washing only. Hand-washing is always preferred because dishwashing liquid is less abrasive to the ceramic surface than dishwasher detergents.</p><p>Always allow the cookware to come to room temperature before washing. Sudden changes in temperature can cause ceramic coatings to crack. Once cooled, follow these steps:</p><ol><li>Fill a sink with warm water and about 1/2 teaspoon of a dishwashing liquid like <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bjs.com%2Fproduct%2Fdawn-platinum-refreshing-rain-dishwashing-liquid-dish-soap-2-pk40-fl-oz%2F3000000000001177092&amp;xcust=1590509316939asloc5bvy|xid:fr1590509319680hci19680hci" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Dawn Platinum</a>, which contains a degreaser.</li><li>Add the ceramic cookware and use a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007FDU05A/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B007FDU05A&amp;linkId=8699f6b970154667b5ab8f18a46d0ef270154667b5ab8f18a46d0ef2" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">soft, microfiber dishcloth</a> or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y11F7DG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B06Y11F7DG&amp;linkId=bf74eea9c2d448b5c9fef5e6c840d14dc2d448b5c9fef5e6c840d14d" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">sponge</a> to clean the interior surface. Never use an abrasive nylon or metal scouring pad on ceramic coatings. They cause tiny scratches and can damage the non-stick quality of the ceramic coating.</li><li>Rinse the cookware in warm water and dry with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NS654PC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NS654PC&amp;linkId=36b86d4846e3a2317515f5847bf17fd446e3a2317515f5847bf17fd4" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">microfiber dishtowel.</a></li></ol><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd28b9f34d050a0b02a614&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd29a35af6cc0e490c72f9&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd2b495af6cc0fa94c057d&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd2c69f0f4197ea262aa96&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><h2><strong>Steps to remove stuck-on food and discoloration from ceramic cookware</strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071GRK9XK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B071GRK9XK&amp;linkId=c7514cc27036ff2e1c8dc8b5f26e570d7036ff2e1c8dc8b5f26e570d" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><div type="image" title="Ceramic Cookware Lead" height="900" width="1200" msid="76075364" hostid="261"></div></a></h2><p>No chef is perfect and sometimes food burns, and even with a ceramic coating, it can stick to the pan. To prevent damage to the ceramic finish, you must use a gentle abrasive and a light touch to remove the mess. Follow these steps:</p><ol><li>After the pan has reached room temperature, submerge it in a solution of warm, soapy water to soak for at least 30 minutes.</li><li>After 30 minutes, dip a damp sponge into a bit of dry <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073VRXPY3/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B073VRXPY3&amp;linkId=02eda07b4c0d170e967cff17204a6f9c4c0d170e967cff17204a6f9c" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">baking soda</a> and use it to gently scrub away any burned-on bits that remain on the ceramic coating. If there is food on the outside of the pan, dip the sponge in <keyword id="6360038" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="baking">baking</keyword> soda again and scrub away.</li><li>If the initial soak and baking soda scrub did not lift away the burned-on food, sprinkle the area with burned-on food heavily with dry baking soda. Add one tablespoon of hot water (add a bit more water for a large area). Allow the baking soda mixture to sit for an additional 30 minutes. Scrub with a sponge in a circular motion.</li><li>Rinse the pan in warm water. Repeat the baking soda scrub if needed. Finally, dry the clean pan with a microfiber cloth.</li><li>If your ceramic cookware has become discolored after lots of use, the finish can be lightened by using <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LH1LG3U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B01LH1LG3U&amp;linkId=49c7727b6409c58bb2f166d18acd08846409c58bb2f166d18acd0884" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">hydrogen peroxide</a>. Fresh hydrogen peroxide (it should bubble when you pour it in) has a gentle bleaching action. Pour enough three-percent hydrogen peroxide into the pan to completely cover the bottom. Let the solution work for 30 minutes and then rinse out the pan well and dry.  Repeat if needed.</li></ol><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e949ccbdcd88c75101ff216&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd2e945af6cc11e56036c4&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><h2><strong>Tips to keep your ceramic pans in top condition</strong></h2><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005D6G5FK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B005D6G5FK&amp;linkId=7caa7bd83dc43c604d57fb7dc9f519c63dc43c604d57fb7dc9f519c6" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><strong><div type="image" title="Ceramic cookware 2" height="900" width="1200" msid="76075367" hostid="261"></div></strong></a></p><ul><li>New ceramic cookware should be washed before using to remove any ceramic dust particles that remain on the surface after manufacturing.</li><li>Never use metallic utensils while cooking. Choose <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005D6G5FK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B005D6G5FK&amp;linkId=7caa7bd83dc43c604d57fb7dc9f519c63dc43c604d57fb7dc9f519c6" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">plastic</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DH8JFS9/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07DH8JFS9&amp;linkId=e3f067fdceff1e13f5d2d607d8b77719ceff1e13f5d2d607d8b77719" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">silicone</a>, or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008H2JLP8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B008H2JLP8&amp;linkId=38a947abae7a8784f6e1a8c79bc51f15ae7a8784f6e1a8c79bc51f15" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">wooden</a> spoons and spatulas to prevent scratching the ceramic surface.</li><li>Never cut foods with a knife in a ceramic-coated pan to prevent scratches and gouges.</li><li>Use oil or butter when cooking instead of cooking sprays. Sprays can leave a residue that builds-up and is difficult to remove. Some sprays even contain ingredients that are too harsh for ceramic finishes.</li><li>Avoid extremely high temperatures when cooking that may damage some ceramic coating.</li><li>Always use a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JJPYSRD/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_052620_how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07JJPYSRD&amp;linkId=234be6a70ae65ce305acc1094575f4740ae65ce305acc1094575f474" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">padded protector</a> between pieces when stacking ceramic cookware to prevent scratching.</li><li>Older ceramic coated cookware will begin to show wear from tiny scratches. Avoid cooking anything highly acidic or using lemon juice or vinegar to clean the pans. The high acid content of these products can cause the ceramic finish to deteriorate more quickly.</li></ul><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd3146f0f41902b612aef6&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd3304aee6a808b62c802c&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd33f91918240fad50c2f7&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5ecd376ff34d05135a554966&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe>Read the original article on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-clean-ceramic-cookware">Business Insider</a>

How to clean ceramic cookware

<p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/travel" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a></p><p class="financial-disclaimer"><i>When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a></i></p><p><a href="https://www.islabellabeachresort.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><div type="image" title="Honeymoon at Home Isla Bella" height="2826" width="3768" msid="75498483" hostid="261"></div></a></p><ul class="summary-list"><li>As people around the world shelter in place and avoid group gatherings and non-essential <keyword id="6354692" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Travel">travel</keyword> in response to the novel coronavirus, all large social events are canceled until further notice. </li><li>That sadly includes weddings, and many engaged couples have had to cancel romantic ceremonies, elaborate receptions, and long-planned honeymoons.</li><li>For those with postponed honeymoons, a few <keyword id="6368036" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="hotels">hotels</keyword> are offering creative solutions with honeymoon-at-home care packages that deliver a luxury honeymoon experience to your door. They cost just under $500 and include a $250 gift certificate towards a future stay. </li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/travel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read all Business Insider travel reviews here.</a></li></ul><p>As people around the world shelter in place at home and avoid group gatherings and non-essential travel in response to the novel coronavirus, so much of day-to-day life has changed. In most places, offices are closed and social events are canceled until further notice. </p><p>That sadly includes weddings. Couples who planned their big days months or years in advance have had to swap save-the-dates for change-the-dates to a TBD day in the future. Along with canceling romantic ceremonies and elaborate receptions, engaged couples have also had to postpone long-planned honeymoons.</p><p>But some couples have chosen to move forward in creative ways, opting to marry in a small, intimate ceremony now, and celebrate with family, friends, and honeymoons later.</p><p>Governor Cuomo even <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/zoom-weddings-during-coronavirus-photos-2020-4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">signed an order allowing New Yorkers to obtain marriage licenses virtually, and for officiants to perform Zoom wedding ceremonies remotely</a>. And while you might not be able to hop on a virtual honeymoon as easily, a few hotels are trying to find ways to help couples celebrate their unions with a honeymoon-at-home gift package.</p><p><a href="https://hiddenpondmaine.com/honeymoon-at-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hidden Pond Resort</a> in Kennebunkport, <keyword id="144960" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Maine">Maine</keyword>, and <a href="https://www.islabellabeachresort.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Isla Bella Beach Resort</a> in the <keyword id="6357385" type="LOCATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="florida">Florida</keyword> Keys are two properties offering such services. They each launched a "Honeymoon at Home" package, which boxes up a version of the luxe experience the hotel would otherwise provide on-property, and are delivering it right to your doorstep, including a $250 gift card for a future stay. These packages are worthy self-care indulgences for any disappointed couples with canceled plans, and also make great gifts to lift spirits, inspire future travel, and support hospitality and independent hotels.</p><p><a href="https://hiddenpondmaine.com/honeymoon-at-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><div type="image" title="Honeymoon at Home Hidden Pond Maine" height="1723" width="2298" msid="75498484" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>And if you're still seeking inspiration for a future honeymoon or romantic retreat, both resorts are worth considering. </p><p><a href="https://hiddenpondmaine.com/honeymoon-at-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hidden Pond Resort</a> is comprised of a collection of luxury cottages and bungalows in coastal Maine, situated on 60-acres of birch forest. Perks include a sumptuous spa, an organic garden, two pools, a farm-to-fork restaurant, and a sleek bar. Hiking trails, biking, paddle boarding, yoga, and other relaxing services are all readily available. If that sounds great, consider purchasing (or gifting) a Honeymoon at Home from Hidden Pond, which costs $499 plus shipping, and includes a $250 gift card towards a future stay. The package is presented in a wooden box that includes all of the following, and can be purchased <a href="http://hiddenpondmaine.com/honeymoon-at-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>:</p><ul><li>$250 gift card for a future stay at Hidden Pond</li><li>2 sets of Hidden Pond robes and slippers</li><li>Hidden Pond special blend coffee</li><li>Pair of Hidden Pond mugs</li><li>Hidden Pond's house-made trail mix from the on-site Earth restaurant</li><li>½ dozen s'more macaroons from Earth restaurant</li><li>Bath flakes and lotion from the Tree Spa at Hidden Pond</li><li>Sea Love Candle </li><li>Birch tree candle holder  </li><li>Maine-themed puzzle</li><li>Jar of "Spoonful of Sunshine" honey from Fun Wreckers Farm in Kennebunkport</li><li>Instant camera to capture moments </li></ul><p>If you'd rather picture yourself somewhere tropical, <a href="https://www.islabellabeachresort.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Isla Bella Beach Resort</a> is the first five-star, full-service luxury resort in the Middle Florida Keys surrounded by acres of private shoreline including one mile of powder sand beach, three restaurants, five swimming pools, over 24,000 square feet of meeting and event space, as well as on-site water sports, fishing, and a marina. Rooms boast private balconies and breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views. The resort is two hours from Miami, one hour from Key West, and minutes from the Marathon International Airport in the Keys. If you're thinking of making a trip of it, be sure to read our guides to the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-hotels-miami" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best hotels in Miami</a> and the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-hotels-key-west" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best hotels in Key West.</a></p><p>Isla Bella's Honeymoon at Home package costs $443 (with a $250 gift card) plus shipping and can be purchased by emailing info@islabella.com or calling 305-481-945. The package includes:</p><ul><li>$250 gift card for a future stay at Isla Bella</li><li>2 <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fspongelle.com%2Fm%2F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Spongelle</a> Sponges </li><li>2 <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fspongelle.com%2Fcollections%2Fpedi-buffersfers" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow noopener sponsored sponsored">Spongelle Foot Pumice Stones</a></li><li><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FThe-SOi-Company-Aqua-de-SOi-100-Premium-Natural-Soy-Candle-21-Ounces-Triple-Wick-Pura-Vida%2F3852974997499" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Aqua de Soi Candle</a> or Isla Bella Candle</li><li><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fspongelle.com%2Fcollections%2Fbody-lotion-collectiontion" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Spongelle Hand Cream or lotion</a></li><li><a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.moltonbrown.com%2Fstore%2Fbath-body%2Ftravel-size-toiletries%2Fmens-mini-jetsetter-stowaway%2FWBB2502FWBB250" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Molton Brown Men's travel set</a></li><li><a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.moltonbrown.com%2Fstore%2Fbath-body%2Ftravel-size-toiletries%2Fwomens-weekend-stowaway%2FWBB1972FWBB197" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Molton Brown Women's travel set</a></li><li>A locally-made ceramic plate with 2020 engraved</li><li>Isla Bella coaster set of 4</li><li>Isabella Vim + Vigor candle</li><li>Isla Bella wine topper</li><li>Cocktail kit</li><li>By The Sea Knot Frame</li><li>Florida Keys Salt Scrub </li><li>Stuffed Isla Bella manatee</li></ul><p>Once you've received your honeymoon-at-home package, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/travel-themed-zoom-backgrounds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">turn on one of these Zoom travel backgrounds</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/at-home-cocktail-recipes-from-hotel-bars" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix up a craft cocktail from top hotels around the world</a>, and wrap yourself up in any of these <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-make-your-house-feel-like-a-hotel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">products that will upgrade your home to a five-star hotel</a>. </p><h2>Need more honeymoon inspiration for when it's safe to travel? Read Business Insider's list of the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-honeymoon-destinations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best honeymoon destinations and hotels</a> that are luxe, but still affordable.</h2>Read the original article on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/honeymoon-at-home-hotel-care-package">Business Insider</a>

A few hotels are starting to offer honeymoon-at-home care packages for couples with postponed weddings — here's everything included for under $500, including a gift card toward a future stay

A local's ultimate guide to visiting Brighton, a seaside city in England

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/586b9f96dd089575208b4edd-2065/undefined" alt="new years" data-mce-source="REUTERS/Henny Ray Abrams" /><p class="source"><span>REUTERS/Henny Ray Abrams</span></p></div><p></p></div></div>Now that the hectic year of <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/best-performing-shares-on-the-ftse-100-in-2016-2015-12">2016 has come to a close,</a> and financial markets are back to normal operation, it is time to reflect on the year that just passed.</p><p>In a year that was ruled by volatility and political concerns, market highlights included the brief equity panic in China in January, the pound's crash after the Brexit vote, and crude oil's rally after falling to just $27 per barrel at the beginning of 2016</p><p>On Tuesday, Deutsche Bank's strategist Jim Reid dropped his first Early Morning Reid note of the new year, and included within it a handy round-up of how some of the best and worst performing assets across the world over the course of the last 12 months.</p><p>Reid writes:</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;">"There's been a familiar theme throughout the year with the Bovespa [Brazil's stock index] (+69%) and the Micex [Russia's index] (+58%) claiming the top two spots in USD total return terms where the rebound in commodities and political developments have played a big part. Oil follows (WTI +45%, Brent +23%) while Copper (+17%) rounds out the top 5."</p><p>On the flipside, the pound, along with Chinese and Italian equities suffered through 2016. Here is Reid again:</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;">"The massive -16% depreciation for Sterling means that Gilts actually returned +11% in local currency terms however. Meanwhile European Banks and the FTSE MIB finished -6% and -10% respectively but it's worth noting that these assets were down as much as -31% and -23% respectively by the half-way point of the year. So a decent turnaround. The Shanghai Comp (-16%) takes the honour of the wooden spoon but remember that that index was down -23% in January alone."</p><p>Here is Reid's chart showing the best and worst performers in their local currency:</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/586b9f96dd089575208b4ede-1407/screen shot 2017-01-03 at 115734.png" alt="DB end of year assets" data-mce-source="Deutsche Bank" /><p class="source"><span>Deutsche Bank</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>And here is how things looked in dollars:</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/586b9f96dd089575208b4edc-1353/screen shot 2017-01-03 at 115935.png" alt="2016 asset performance" data-mce-source="Deutsche Bank" /><p class="source"><span>Deutsche Bank</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/money-save-invest-401k-millionaire-2016-12">How much money you need to save each day to become a millionaire by age 65</a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/6e12e8b3387a44daacfb73afba25a76e"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="l3Y3JoODE6AznwShkXttejURmRE6JOzK" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', 'l3Y3JoODE6AznwShkXttejURmRE6JOzK',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

Here are the best and worst performers in global markets in 2016

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Austrian <keyword id="6181" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Food">food</keyword> blogger Eva Friedl posted a popular TikTok video demonstrating how to turn <keyword id="6357071" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="watermelon">watermelon</keyword> into <keyword id="6400741" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Vegan">vegan</keyword> <keyword id="62494" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="sushi">sushi</keyword>. </li><li>The simple <keyword id="52676" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="recipe">recipe</keyword> requires five ingredients and four simple steps. </li><li>Friedl marinates the watermelon in a mixture of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, ginger, and sesame seeds to replicate the sashimi taste.</li><li>Friedl told Insider she was inspired to create the recipe after she saw videos of people <keyword id="27178" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="cooking">cooking</keyword> watermelon like steaks on a grill. </li></ul><p><a href="https://www.insider.com/watermelon-steak-looks-like-meat-how-2018-8#:~:text=New%20York%20City%2Dbased%20restaurant,course%2C%20it%20is%20actually%20watermelon.">First came watermelon steak</a>, now there's watermelon sushi. </p><p>A new video shows how you can <a href="https://www.insider.com/viral-smoked-watermelon-looks-like-meat-2018-8">transform the fruit</a> into a sashimi replica in just a few simple steps — and it's already become <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-make-cloud-bread-viral-food-tiktok-2020-8">a TikTok hit</a>, with more than 506,000 views at the time of writing.</p><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@vegaliciouslyeva/video/6864589013697776902" data-video-id="6864589013697776902" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a target="_blank" title="@vegaliciouslyeva" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@vegaliciouslyeva">@vegaliciouslyeva</a> <p> cruelty free tuna  full recipe on my Insta✌ <a title="vegantuna" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/vegantuna">##vegantuna</a> <a title="vegan" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/vegan">##vegan</a> <a title="veganrecipe" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/veganrecipe">##veganrecipe</a> <a title="tiktokrecipe" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tiktokrecipe">##tiktokrecipe</a> <a title="healthy" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/healthy">##healthy</a> <a title="veganfoodie" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/veganfoodie">##veganfoodie</a> <a title="veganrecipes" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/veganrecipes">##veganrecipes</a></p> <a target="_blank" title="♬ Mood - 24KGoldn" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Mood-6851608429664929794">♬ Mood - 24KGoldn</a> </section> </blockquote> <p><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@vegaliciouslyeva/video/6864589013697776902?source=h5_m">Austrian food blogger Eva Friedl</a>, who made the video and calls herself a "software developer by day and recipe developer by night," told Insider that she loves how "close or actually better" the watermelon sushi tastes compared to actual tuna.</p><div type="image" title="vegan watermelon sushi" height="614" width="818" msid="77877639" hostid="261"></div><p>"I've let my boyfriend test it and he couldn't even guess what it is," she added. "He didn't believe me when I told him it is watermelon." </p><p>Friedl, who also runs the vegan Instagram account <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vegaliciouslyeva/">@vegaliciouslyeva</a>, said the <a href="https://www.insider.com/ina-gartens-summer-pasta-dish-tomatoes-olive-oil-2020-8">recipe is "super simple."</a> </p><p>Her only big tip is to get the exact ingredients: watermelon, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sesame seeds, and grated ginger.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:800; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~800;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CERyo-yi2zO" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank"> VEGAN TUNA SASHIMI ⠀ ⠀ The consistency of cooked or baked watermelon ist just amazing. Enough said. Try it out yourself ⠀ optional ingredients for the marinade: - some seaweed for a more fishy taste - a bit of liquid smoke for a slightly smokey flavor ⠀ Directions:⠀ ⠀ 1. Cut the watermelon slices into sushi sized rectangles. ⠀ 2. For the marinade mix together toasted sesame seed oil, soy sauce and grated ginger.⠀ 2. Marinate the watermelon pieces for about 4 hours. You can also let it marinate overnight but then I would add a little bit of water so it doesn't get too salty.⠀ 3. Once marinated cook in a pot with the lid closed for about 10 minutes. The pieces should all be soft. ⠀ 4. Drain (you can use the marinade for an asian salad dressing) and turn in some sesame seeds on four sides. ⠀ 5. Serve with some cucumber slices, sriracha mayo and spring onions.⠀ ⠀ ENJOY ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #vegantuna #watermelon #watermelontuna #healthyrecipe #veganrecipe #veganfish #veganrecipes #veganfoodie #veganlife #vegansashimi #veganerthunfisch #simpleveganrecipe #vegansushi #vegansushirecipe #plantbasedsushi #plantsushi #healthysushi #watermelonrecipes #watermelonrecipe #veganaustria #veganvienna #vegan #veganerezepte #veganfood #wassermelone #simpleveganfood #veganfoodie</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  simplehealthyveganrecipes (@vegaliciouslyeva) on Aug 24, 2020 at 9:00am PDT<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2020-08-24T16:00:38+00:00">Aug 24, 2020 at 9:00am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><p>"A lot of people keep asking me if they can use olive oil or any other oil," Friedl said. "But for an authentic 'tuna' experience, toasted sesame oil is very important. A lot of tuna sushi and sashimi recipes in restaurants that I tried before I went vegan had this taste in the dressing, so I think it helps a lot to create that kind of flavor combination that reminds you of the tuna." </p><p>Getting toasted sesame oil is also important, she said, "because regular sesame oil tastes pretty plain."</p><p>Friedl added that she likes to reuse the marinade as a salad dressing. "I love to use it with glass noodles, cucumber, peanuts, and spring onions — tastes absolutely amazing," she said.</p><h2>To begin making the vegan tuna sashimi, cut the watermelon into 'sushi-sized rectangles'</h2><div type="image" title="vegan tuna sushi" height="1182" width="664" msid="77877642" hostid="261"></div><p>After cutting watermelon into "sushi-sized rectangles," mix ¼ cup of soy sauce with two tablespoons of sesame seeds, one tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, and ¼ teaspoon of grated ginger for the marinade mix. Marinate the watermelon pieces in the mixture for at least four hours. </p><p>"You can also let it marinate overnight," Friedl said. "But then I would add a little bit of water so it doesn't get too salty." </p><div type="image" title="vegan tuna sashimi" height="1190" width="676" msid="77877645" hostid="261"></div><p>Once your watermelon is ready, cook it in a pot with the lid closed for about 10 minutes to soften up the pieces. Then drain the pot, saving the leftover marinade for a salad dressing if you like.</p><p>To serve, stick sesame seeds on all four sides of each watermelon piece. Plate them with cucumber slices, sriracha mayo, and spring onions to finish. </p><div type="image" title="vegan tuna sashimi" height="1194" width="670" msid="77877648" hostid="261"></div><h2>Eva Friedl was first inspired to make watermelon sushi <a href="https://www.insider.com/i-tried-dalgona-coffee-tiktok-trend-quarantine-2020-4">when she saw a recipe on</a> Pinterest last year </h2><p>"It was uncooked watermelon that I mixed with Sriracha mayo and wrapped up in some sushi rice and seaweed," Friedl said of the Pinterest recipe. "It was perfect and refreshing for summer, but it wasn't quite the fish experience." </p><p>Then, just a few weeks ago, Friedl saw videos of people making watermelon "steaks" on grills. </p><p>"I was surprised to see how the consistency looked like – I think it looks more like fish than a steak," she said. "So I tried it with the watermelon and it worked amazing." </p><div type="image" title="vegan tuna sushi" height="1314" width="1752" msid="77877650" hostid="261"></div><p>Friedl, who has been vegan since 2017, said she loves that her recipe is giving many people the chance to have a "similar taste experience" to eating sushi. </p><p>"A lot of people on TikTok wrote to me that they're super happy about this because they're allergic to fish and now have a recipe they can enjoy as well," she said.</p><p>The food blogger has re-created more than just sashimi, using carrots to imitate smoked salmon. </p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:800; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~800;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B6OMnncJTvh" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">VEGAN SMOKED SALMON for #veganizevednesday ⠀ Swap salmon with carrots and you get the exact same taste without killing an animal - how cool is that? Everyone of my non-vegan friends at the christmas brunch absolutely LOVED this so I urge you to make this as well ⠀ ⠀ Here’s what you’ll need:⠀  4-5carrots⠀ ~1.5 kg coarse sea salt Marinade: 2-3 tsp liquid smoke⠀ 1 tbsp olive oil⠀ 1/2 tsp rice vinegar⠀ 1 tsp nori flakes (remove before serving)⠀ ⠀ Toppings:⠀ red onion⠀ capers⠀ fresh dill⠀ Directions: Bake the carrots covered in salt in the oven at 200C(390F) for 2 hours. Let them cool down and then break the salt crust carefully with a wooden spoon. Remove carrot skin with a sharp knife. Then cut carrots into thin slices. Place them in a sealable jar, add the marinade - shake - and let it sit in the fridge for 2-3 days for optimal taste. The sea salt baking method is from @olivesfordinner and it is absolutely necessary to get an authentic taste. I also tried another version that is out there by cutting the raw carrot into thin slices, then steam them and let them marinate. Even tough this method is a lot faster it doesn’t get even close to the salt method that I used here in this recipe (even tough using the same marinade)⠀ ⠀ Hint: you can save the salt in a sealable container and reuse it next time⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀Music: @jeffkaale #vegansalmon #vegansmokedsalmon #veganfish #smokedsamon #carrotlax #carrotlox #carrots #carrots #recipevideos #veganrecipevideos #veganrecipe #veganrecipes #christmasrecipe #christmasappetizers #christmasmenu #veganchristmas #christmasvegan #veganchristmasdinner #thegamechangers #veganbreakfast #vegandinner #veganbrunch #christmasbrunch #thefeedfeedvegan #veganrecipeshare #rezeptvideo #veganfoodshare #veganfoodshares #vegandeutschland ⠀</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  simplehealthyveganrecipes (@vegaliciouslyeva) on Dec 18, 2019 at 9:42am PST<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2019-12-18T17:42:55+00:00">Dec 18, 2019 at 9:42am PST</time></p></div></blockquote><p>"It works so well that, last Christmas, my family members couldn't believe that they weren't eating real salmon," she said. "On a white bagel or toast with some vegan cream cheese, red onion, capers and fresh dill – it is just amazing."</p><h2><strong>Friedl is far from the only person to make watermelon sushi</strong></h2><p>YouTube food bloggers like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsTOw4BN4IE">Edgy Veg</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCiX1bJwy3I">avantgardevegan</a> have also used the fruit to create their own vegan versions of nigiri, spicy tuna rolls, and poké bowls. </p><p>And Stoke, a restaurant in Charlotte, North Carolina, was <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAwuJ8s6cyQ">featured on Insider</a> in 2018 for its seared watermelon dish that looked like a tuna roll. </p><ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/viral-smoked-watermelon-looks-like-meat-2018-8">How a New York restaurant made smoked watermelon look like meat</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/ina-gartens-summer-pasta-dish-tomatoes-olive-oil-2020-8">I made Ina Garten's easy summer pasta dish and it reminded me of dinners in Italy</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-make-cloud-bread-viral-food-tiktok-2020-8">Cloud bread is the latest food trend to take over TikTok, and you only need 3 ingredients to make it</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/watermelon-steak-looks-like-meat-how-2018-8#:~:text=New%20York%20City%2Dbased%20restaurant,course%2C%20it%20is%20actually%20watermelon.">A restaurant is now serving 'watermelon steak' that looks just like real meat — and it's blowing the internet's mind</a></li></ul>

A woman's TikTok shows her turning watermelon into vegan sushi in just 4 easy steps

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/57234317.cms" /> <br /> <keyword id="10138" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mahendra-Singh-Dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</keyword> was today removed as captain of <keyword id="6354312" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="IPL">IPL</keyword> franchise Rising Pune Supergiants and replaced by Australian <keyword id="84726" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Steve-Smith">Steve Smith</keyword>, ending his innings as skipper in both international and franchise cricket, according to news agency <keyword id="6367495" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="PTI">PTI</keyword>. <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Dhonis-daughter-just-did-a-photoshoot-and-its-cutenessoverloaded/articleshow/55924984.cms">ALSO READ: CUTENESS ALERT: DHONI'S DAUGHTER JUST DID A PHOTOSHOOT</a><br />
<br /> <keyword id="6397" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Dhoni">Dhoni</keyword>, who had stepped down as India's limited-overs <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Dhonis-daughter-just-did-a-photoshoot-and-its-cutenessoverloaded/articleshow/55924984.cms">captain</a> to snap his international run as skipper earlier this year, will, however, continue to be a part of the Pune franchise as a player.<br />
<br /> "Dhoni has not stepped down. We have appointed Steve <keyword id="11668" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Smith">Smith</keyword> as the skipper for the upcoming season. Frankly speaking, we did not have a good last season and we wanted someone young to lead the side and revamp it ahead of the upcoming season 10," Rising Pune Supergiants owner <keyword id="6355523" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sanjiv-Goenka">Sanjiv Goenka</keyword> told PTI.<br />
<br />
This is the first time that the 35-year-old, who had stepped down from Team India captaincy on his own terms in all formats, has been removed from the top position.<br />
<br />
The decision comes a day before the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Dhonis-daughter-just-did-a-photoshoot-and-its-cutenessoverloaded/articleshow/55924984.cms">players' auctions</a> scheduled to be held in <keyword id="6354321" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bengaluru">Bengaluru</keyword>.<br />
<br /> "I have the highest regard for MS Dhoni as a leader and a person. Dhoni continues to be an integral member of our team. He is supportive of the decision keeping the franchise's best interests in mind," <keyword id="7812" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Goenka">Goenka</keyword> added.<br />
<br />
The most expensive player of the tournament that began in 2008, Dhoni also has been among the most successful.<br />
<br /> Part of the now suspended <keyword id="13886" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Chennai-Super-Kings">Chennai Super Kings</keyword> franchise from 2008 to 2015, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Dhonis-daughter-just-did-a-photoshoot-and-its-cutenessoverloaded/articleshow/55924984.cms">Dhoni led the team</a> to back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011. Besides, he also led Chennai to the Champions League T20 trophies in 2010 and 2014.<br />
<br /> He was the first one picked in the only draft held in the IPL, in December 2015, after Chennai and <keyword id="13802" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rajasthan-Royals">Rajasthan Royals</keyword> were suspended for two years and two new franchises -- Pune and <keyword id="1641060" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Gujarat-lions">Gujarat Lions</keyword> -- were given the option of choosing up to five players each.<br />
<br />
He has been with the Pune franchise ever since. The man replacing him in the leadership role, the 27-year-old Smith, is currently the captain of the Australian crickteam in all three formats.<br />
<br />
He was appointed Test captain in 2014/15 and he took over the ODI captaincy reigns after the 2015 World Cup.<br />
<br />
Pune, who were one of the two teams along with Gujarat Lions to be inducted last season in place of the the suspended Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, were plagued with injury issues.<br />
<br /> They just about avoided the wooden spoon to finish ahead of <keyword id="13883" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kings-XI-Punjab">Kings XI Punjab</keyword> at the seventh place in the eight-team standings of IPL 2015.<br />
<br /> Although the team started well with a win over <keyword id="13880" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mumbai-Indians">Mumbai Indians</keyword> in the first match, it failed to maintain the consistency with the likes of <keyword id="9231" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kevin-Pietersen">Kevin Pietersen</keyword>, Faf du Plessis and <keyword id="88531" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Steven-Smith">Steven Smith</keyword> all withdrawing due to injuries.

IPL 2017: MS
Dhoni is no more the captain of Rising Pune
Supergiants. Here’s who replaced him

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="9583707" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="fahim-saleh">Fahim Saleh</keyword>, a 33-year-old entrepreneur, was found dismembered at his Manhattan apartment last month. </li><li>A founder of ride-share and delivery technology, Saleh had a mission to bring jobs and opportunities to developing countries. </li><li>Saleh's social media gives the world an inside look at his tight-knit family, hobbies, and a jet-setting lifestyle.</li><li>His older sister recalled the moment she learned of her brother's killing and having to ID his body by photo.</li></ul><p>Fahim Saleh was in 5th grade when he launched his first "business."</p><p>He and his young friend would sell candy they bought in bulk at the local dollar store on their school playground in upstate New York. The school principal shut down their operation after three weeks. But by that time they had already raked in $150, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNdQ0-Clcsk">Saleh recounted in a video last year</a>.</p><p>More than 20 years and several successful <keyword id="6358815" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="tech">tech</keyword> start-ups later, the 33-year-old entrepreneur's life was cut short in July when he was found dismembered at his luxury New York City apartment. </p><p>But as <keyword id="6355005" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="news">news</keyword> stories about Saleh continue to make headlines, those who knew him say the young man was more than just his success or horrific demise.</p><p>"In recent years, he was maturing not just professionally, but personally. He was so excited about decorating his new apartment and would discuss throw pillows with our mother over Facetime," Saleh's sister, Ruby Angela Saleh, wrote <a href="https://medium.com/@justiceforfahim/mourning-my-baby-brother-fahim-238dae9a4372">in a Medium post.</a> "He was developing his passion for cooking, working on improving his running performance, and taking care of his three-year-old pomsky, Laila. He was creating structure and stillness in his life, neither of which came easily to him." </p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hXlYCnkjnS4" frameborder="0"></iframe><p>Those who knew Saleh say he was a proud and hardworking entrepreneur who was dedicated to his projects and loved ones. </p><p>In her Medium post, Ruby Saleh recalled getting the phone call on July 14 from her aunt, who told her that her brother had been killed. She instantly jumped on the phone with their sister, who confirmed the devastating news. She struggled to believe it.</p><p>"I dropped the phone and crawled onto the wooden floor, touching its cold, hard surface with the palms of my hands," she wrote. "I looked up at my husband. He was already crying, as if he had accepted these words about my brother as truth."</p><p><div type="image" title="NYPD officers speak at crime scene at 265 Houston Street, where Fahim Saleh, Co-founder/CEO of Gokada, was found dead at the apartment building in New York City, New York, U.S., July 15, 2020.  REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton" height="3648" width="5472" msid="77009517" hostid="261"></div></p><h2>A Bangladeshi-American son to immigrants, Saleh worked on projects to 'change countries' in the developing world</h2><p>Fahim Saleh was born in Saudi Arabia to Bangladeshi parents and raised in upstate New York. </p><p>Ruby Saleh wrote that her brother's energetic spirit caused him to throw himself into his projects from a young age. After having his candy project shut down, he started making jewelry and selling that instead, she said. </p><p>His entrepreneurial spirit blossomed in his teens when he started developing a network of social media apps from his parent's home. In 2006, Saleh's first company, Wizteen, Inc., made more than $400,000, according to old tax filings he <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17886866197172952/">shared on Instagram</a>.</p><p>He was only a high school senior at the time. </p><p>"From the time he discovered the Internet until the time I last saw him, my brother could get so lost in his work that the sun could come up before he realized he had skipped both lunch and dinner," Ruby Saleh wrote.</p><p>His commitment worried their father, also a programmer, who often had to remind him to eat.</p><p>"How will I survive knowing that I never again have to worry about what my Famy ate today?" Ruby Saleh recalled her father asking her last month.</p><p>In 2010, after graduating from Bentley University in Massachusetts, Saleh launched TapFury, a company responsible for the wildly popular PrankDial app, which allowed for people to make anonymous prank phone calls. </p><p>While lucrative, the app also <a href="https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/ny-prankdial-app-hudson-county-jail-wiretap-case-20200715-57qvtdrdjfcfhixhcxdj3t4a6u-story.html">ensnared Saleh in a legal battle</a> after the deputy director of New Jersey's Hudson County jail used it to entrap two of his officers by secretly recording their conversation and using it against them, according to documents filed in New Jersey federal court.</p><p>The jail official, Kirk Eady, was eventually sentenced to 21 months jail time on wiretapping charges in 2015. When Eady was released, he sued Saleh in a case that is still pending, alleging he was misled about the legality of the app.</p><p>Undeterred, Saleh went on to found co-found <a href="https://pathao.com/">Pathao</a>, a motorbike ride-hailing service in Bangladesh and then <keyword id="4171014" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="gokada">Gokada</keyword>, a similar venture in Lagos, Nigeria. </p><p>In Lagos, Gokada launched a fleet of 1,000 "pilots" outfitted with branded motorcycles and safety gear to provide rides to locals through an app.</p><p>In February, due to policy changes in Lagos, Gokada was forced to shift away from taxi services to providing <a href="https://www.gokada.ng/">delivery services</a>.</p><p>In the last video that Saleh posted on Youtube, he talked about how the ban on motorbike ride-shares like Gokada was disrupting his mission of providing jobs to locals in Nigeria. </p><p>"This has definitely been a blow," Saleh said in the video, adding that the work of entrepreneurs "change countries" and should be supported.</p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet blockquote" data-lang="en" data-cards="" data-conversation="">—Gokada - We do delivery now  (@GokadaNG) <a href="https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/1283459998157115393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2020</a></blockquote><p>"The drivers at Gokada, they weren't there just because they wanted to make money. They were there because they had families, they had children, they had dreams," <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiUnvrCdG30">Saleh said.</a></p><p>In a different Medium post, <a href="https://medium.com/@amdfad?source=post_page-----38cb8c1832d----------------------" rel="noopener">Ahmed Fahad </a>wrote about Saleh as his mentor and eventual business partner at Pathao. </p><p>Fahad said that the two worked hard for success together and Saleh taught him a number of tough lessons over the years. </p><p>While Saleh's opinionated personality was "often polarizing", Fahad called him a role model.</p><p id="0ae7">"Over the years, I came to know his many… human flaws," he wrote. "But when I think of Fahim Saleh tonight… I remember his indomitable will. His complete and utter disregard for the status quo. And his lopsided extreme focus to makes things happen. I remember a man who changed things and people."</p><h2>Saleh's social media gave the world an inside look at his jet-setting, yet family-oriented life</h2><p>Saleh did not shy away from giving the world an inside look at his life, success, and family.</p><p>In 2016, he posted a Youtube video in which he and his two sisters — Riff and Ruby — arrived at their parents' modest apartment and told their dad by phone that the needed to bring them cash for their Uber. </p><p>When he got outside, Saleh <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnH3uU-dgY4">surprised him</a> by gifting him a new Tesla Model S for Father's Day. </p><p>Saleh's public profiles on Instagram and Youtube shared an inside look at young tech mogul's life with the world. </p><p>In between photos of jet-setting between business trips and vacations, working out, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17886866197172952/">playing the ukulele,</a> Saleh's Instagram told the story of a tight-knit Bangladeshi-American family. </p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~540;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BdP3HYzAFXN" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Fam4life @rubyforreal @riffyyy</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  Fahim Saleh (@fahims) on Dec 28, 2017 at 5:36am PST<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-12-28T13:36:53+00:00">Dec 28, 2017 at 5:36am PST</time></p></div></blockquote><p>Eight months ago, Saleh proudly shared a night shot of the 10-story brick and glass apartment building where he owned a $2 million apartment on the 7th floor. </p><p>A horizontal sign that spanned more than three floors prominently displayed "265 East Houston Street," the address where one of his sisters made an unexpected visit on Tuesday and discovered a gruesome <keyword id="39494" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Crime">crime</keyword> scene.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~540;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B6KF3XglNbg" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">My home ♥️ #nyc</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  Fahim Saleh (@fahims) on Dec 16, 2019 at 7:00pm PST<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2019-12-17T03:00:46+00:00">Dec 16, 2019 at 7:00pm PST</time></p></div></blockquote><h2>Saleh's cousin disrupted the killer's plan to destroy his body, police say</h2><p>On the afternoon of his killing, after not hearing from her Saleh for a day, his cousin made a visit to his apartment, Ruby said. </p><p>When she arrived, at around 3:30 p.m., she discovered his dismembered body. An electric saw was still plugged in, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/15/nyregion/fahim-saleh-lower-east-side-murder.html">the New York Times reported</a>.</p><p>Surveillance video viewed by the police shows that the killer, who was dressed in all black and wearing a mask, had followed Saleh into an elevator a day earlier. </p><p><keyword id="6355722" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="detectives">Detectives</keyword> told The Daily Beast that Saleh appeared uneasy when the man appeared not to know how to use the building's elevator and the two had exchanged words. </p><p>When Saleh arrived at his apartment, which occupied the whole 7th floor, the man followed him off, trapping him, according to the Daily Beast.</p><p>Using what police believe was a stun gun, the killer demobilized Saleh, and at sometime later stabbed him several times, <a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/mans-beheaded-dismembered-body-found-in-nyc-luxury-apartment-complex">the Daily Beast reported</a>.</p><p>The killer likely waited overnight before using the saw to dismember Saleh, police told the Daily Beast.</p><p>The visit from his cousin, who Ruby identified as "A" seemed to interrupt an attempt to destroy the body and leave no evidence of Saleh's killing, according to police.</p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/18018900373027300/">Laila</a> was found alive in the apartment, according to the New York Times. </p><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/suspect-reportedly-arrested-murder-dismemberment-tech-founder-fahim-saleh-2020-7">Police have since arrested Tyrese Devon Haspil, 21, for the murder</a>.</p><p>The motive was financial, police said. Saleh had discovered that Haspil had "stolen tens of thousands of dollars from him," though the two were thought to have worked out a repayment plan.</p><p>"While we were growing up, I felt more like a mother to Fahim than a sister. When he was a toddler too wild to finish a meal, I ran after him with spoonfuls of rice and chicken," Ruby Saleh wrote. "I gave him baths, I changed his diapers, and I was petrified the first time I saw his nose bleed."</p><p>"Thirty years later, I was learning that Fahim's head and limbs had been discarded in a trash bag," she added. "Someone had cut my brother's body into pieces and tossed the pieces into a garbage bag, as if his life, his body, his existence had had no meaning or value." </p><h2>The family is still in mourning</h2><p>Two days after her brother was killed, Ruby Saleh was sitting with her cousin and sister when she got a call from the funeral home. Due to COVID-19, she would have to identify her brother's remains by photo. Minutes later, she received the image of her brother, "lifeless."</p><p>When her father came into the room, she quickly turned off the computer, realizing she can never tell him what she saw. She can never tell him what she saw, she wrote.</p><p>It's been just under a month since Fahim Saleh's funeral. </p><p>These days his father spends most days with Laila "speaking to her in the same affectionate tone he reserved for my brother," Ruby Saleh wrote. "My mother spends her days crying. At night, she cannot sleep." </p><p>Ruby lives abroad, in a country on the other side of the Atlantic where it's warm year-round, she wrote. Last week she considered hosting Thanksgiving, their family's favorite holiday, at her home. She expects the day to be difficult this year.</p><p>"Fahim always made the garlic mashed potatoes, while I made the stuffing and my sister made her famous mac and cheese," she said.</p><p>"Maybe in this new setting, we will all feel a bit less heartbroken when Fahim doesn't tear through our parents' kitchen door, running behind schedule, letting in the cold air behind him, throwing his jacket and bag on the floor, taking his place at the kitchen island, surrounded by his family, Googling garlic mashed potato recipes on his phone," she added.</p><p><em>This story was updated.</em></p><ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more: </li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/founder-fahim-saleh-found-decapitated-electric-saw-next-to-him-2020-7">The body of a tech founder was found dismembered in his Manhattan condo</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fahim-saleh-tech-ceo-family-react-death-dismemberment-nyc-condo-2020-7">'Nothing short of evil': Family of the tech CEO found dismembered in his NYC condo react to his death as officials say the killer may have been interrupted</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/security-experts-comment-on-high-profile-bitcoin-twitter-hack-2020-7">Here's how security experts think hackers hijacked the Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Barack Obama, and many others</a></li></ul>

The sister of Fahim Saleh — the CEO found dismembered in his NYC apartment — says her baby brother's killing is a devastating loss for their tight-knit immigrant family

<p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a0b524a35876e7f6b8b59ad-1063/coco%20disney%20pixar.jpg" alt="Coco Disney Pixar" data-mce-source="Disney/Pixar"><p class="source"><span>Disney/Pixar</span></p><p class="caption">"Coco."</p></img></div><p></p></div></div><ul><li><strong>"Coco" is the latest Pixar movie and is directed by Lee Unkrich ("Toy Story 3").</strong></li><li><strong>The movie focuses on the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos ("Day of the Dead"), and marks the first time Pixar has told a story around a cultural celebration.</strong></li><li><strong>Unkrich brought on cultural consultants to make sure the story was representing Mexican culture correctly. This is the first time a Pixar movie has welcomed in outsiders to a project still in production.</strong></li><li><strong>This&#xa0;came after the Latino community protested Disney for attempting to patent the phrase "Dia del los Muertos" for the movie.</strong></li></ul><hr><p><br>Director Lee Unkrich was hot off the box office success and Oscar win for 2010's "Toy Story 3" when he delved into making a movie that focused on the Mexican holiday, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_the_Dead" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dia de los Muertos</a>. Seven years later, the project now known as "Coco" is finally ready for release (in theaters November 22), but the experience of making it was unlike any other Pixar movie before.&#xa0;</br></p><p>Under the watchful eye of Pixar/Walt Disney Animation head John Lasseter, Disney animation has been a powerhouse for over two decades. A big reason for that is the visionaries behind the scenes who are always looking for a challenge. For Unkrich, it was the Day of the Dead holiday that really fascinated him as an entry into telling a story.&#xa0;</p><p>"It wasn't until I started to learn about the tradition, and what it was truly all about, and its history, that I started to really see the potential of telling a story that could be very adventurous and visually dazzling, full of music and color, but could also have a real emotional resonance," Unkrich told Business Insider. "And that's what we're all really looking for ultimately in the stories that we tell. We don't want to just tell a story that's gimmicky and clever."</p><p>It would be new terrain for Pixar: the first time&#xa0;it would tell a story around a cultural celebration. But Lasseter was game. He gave Unkrich the okay and the filmmaker got started in September of 2011.</p><p>The story follows a young boy named Miguel who secretly wants to be a famous musician, though his family has forbidden music after his great-great-grandfather left the family to seek out fame as a musician. While celebrating Day of the Dead, Miguel magically ends up in the Land of the Dead, and must go on a journey to find his way back to the living while also searching for his great-great-grandfather.</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a0b54c73dbef4a7748b594b-2287/coco%203%20disney%20pixar.jpg" alt="Coco 3 Disney Pixar" data-mce-source="Disney/Pixar"><p class="source"><span>Disney/Pixar</span></p><p class="caption">Miguel in the Land of the Dead.</p></img></div><p></p></div></div>"Many of us have lost loved ones and have spend time thinking about them and wanting to keep their memories alive, so we felt even though this was a culturally specific setting for our story that it was going to be full of ideas that people all over the world could relate to," Unkrich said.<p>But finding the right tone for the culture it was spotlighting turned out to be the project's biggest challenge. At first, to stay clear of stereotypes and making sure to be culturally respectful, Unkrich said he used many Pixar artists and employees who are Mexican or Mexican-American as a sounding board. However, a major roadblock hit the production in 2013 when Disney <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/10/us/disney-trademark-day-dead/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">filed an application</a> to patent Dia de los Muertos for the release of the movie. The Latino community went into an uproar on social media and a petition to stop Disney went up on Change.org and received over 21,000 signatures. The company quickly withdrew the application.</p><p>Unkrich admits making "Coco" has been a learning process from the start, but he said they really hit their stride when they put together a group of cultural consultants. Made up of people like Lalo Alcaraz - author of the nationally syndicated comic "La Cucaracha," who was one of the most vocal opponents of the patent - and Latino playwright Octavio Solis, the group would meet with Unkrich, codirector Adrian Molina, and their team every few months and look at the development of the project. It was the first time on any Pixar movie that outsiders were allowed into the studio's creative process. And getting the feedback of outsiders didn't stop there.</p><p>"We ended up bringing in periodically big groups of all sorts of folks from the Latino community, from artists to writers to political figures to media executives, because we wanted to get a lot of different perspectives," Unkrich said. "What we quickly learned is there is no one right way to tell a story set in the Latino community, there are a lot of different opinions. Part of our challenge was trying to navigate all those different opinions to figure out our path forward."</p><p>These meetings with the consultants and Latino community didn't lead to any major changes to the story, Unkrich said, however they were responsible for many small tweaks that increased the movie's connection to Mexican culture.</p><p>One example is a change in how the character of Miguel's grandmother, Abuelita, disciplines people.</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a0b54183dbef4ae448b5b7e-2290/coco%202%20disney%20pixar.jpg" alt="Coco 2 Disney Pixar" data-mce-source="Disney/Pixar"><p class="source"><span>Disney/Pixar</span></p><p class="caption">Don't mess with Abuelita and her chancla.</p></img></div><p></p></div></div>"In her earlier conception we gave her a wooden spoon that was tucked into her apron string and she would whip that out and kind of hit you to express displeasure," Unkrich said. "It was at one of our earlier screenings that a couple of our cultural consultants said, 'A spoon has nothing to do with Latino culture, she should really pull off her <em>chancla</em>, her slipper, and hit them with it.' And that was the first time we learned about <em>la chancla</em>, and we embraced the idea fully. That one adjustment has proven to win us a lot of points in the Latino community because it's something a lot of people grew up fearing."<p>Then there&#xa0;were the factors surrounding the movie that were beyond Unkrich and Pixar's control, like how immigration suddenly&#xa0;became&#xa0;a hot-button topic&#xa0;after the election of Donald Trump as president. Unkrich said he and his crew were in Mexico on election night, recording music by local musicians for the movie. He said the news of the Trump win didn't&#xa0;dampen&#xa0;anyone's spirits, but he does recognize the current climate about immigration and race, and how it's changed substantially since back when they began working on "Coco."</p><p>"I feel like this has been a confusing time for many people, and there's lots of negativity in the air, and we just hope that with this film we are bringing some needed positivity," he said.</p><p>Unkrich doesn't know if "Coco" can be a unifier, but he does believe that telling stories like this is important.</p><p>"I think a lot of great change in history has come from stories and storytelling, there's a power to it," he said. "The one thing that everyone knows for sure these days is that we're living in super unpredictable times. All I can really say is that I firmly believe that by bringing this movie out we're trying to be part of the solution rather than trying to be part of the problem."</p><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Rvr68u6k5sI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/south-korean-boy-band-music-world-takeover-2017-10">This South Korean boy band is taking over the music world</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/Vu8Fzygn-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div></hr>

In a first for Pixar, 'Coco' was created with the help of people outside the company

<p>The New York Times' effort to get us all to add <a href="http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1015047-green-pea-guacamole">green peas to our guacamole</a> may have <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/twitter-is-going-crazy-over-peas-in-guacamole-2015-7">backfired</a>, but it got me thinking about obscure ways to upgrade my foolproof guacamole recipe that I've been using for well over a decade.</p><p><span>After discovering I had leftovers of the classic guac I made this past weekend at family BBQ, I decided to do something crazy with them: I added blueberries. </span></p><p>It was totally life-changing. <span>The blueberries added a refreshing and sweet explosion to each bite without overpowering the strong flavors of jalapeño and lime in the guacamole. </span></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/559ab190371d2210008b5aef-2277-1708/2 blues.jpg" alt="blueberry guacamole" data-mce-source="Emily Cohn/Business Insider" data-mce-caption="Blueberries are far superior to peas as a guac ingredient." /><p class="source"><span>Emily Cohn/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Blueberries are far superior to peas as a guac ingredient.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>I wasn't going to go the pea route. Frankly, I've eaten <span class="s1">Jean-Georges Vongerichten's pea guac - the one that inspired the <a href="http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1015047-green-pea-guacamole">Times' recipe</a> and subsequently caused the Internet to freak out - and I wasn't impressed. Who needs more green mush in a sea of green mush?</span></p><p><span class="s1">If anything, I wanted to add fruit. Tons of great fruit is in season right now, and it's one of my favorite things to snack on when I'm lounging outside on a hot summer day. Fruit in guacamole is nothing new; <span>I've been served mango guac in restaurants, but the mango becomes a substitute for avocado, as opposed to a complement. Pomegranate seeds are another common addition, but I find the taste overpowering. </span></span></p><p><span class="s1"><span>This led me to experiment with blueberries. </span></span>I didn't choose blueberries as much as they chose me - we had a plentiful supply in the fridge.</p><p><span class="s1"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/559ab4492acae72c008b5c95-800-300/splice.jpg" alt="blueberry guacamole" data-mce-source="Emily Cohn/Business Insider" data-mce-caption="Leftover guac + fresh blueberries = one awesome poolside snack." /><p class="source"><span>Emily Cohn/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Leftover guac + fresh blueberries = one awesome poolside snack.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I didn't mix the fruit in with the guacamole but left them on top as a garnish instead.</span> I can't speak for what guac with blueberries mixed in would taste like, but if you try it, let us know!</p><p>So here it is, a recipe for blueberry guac. If blueberries aren't available, try blackberries - they're also in season.</p><h2><strong>Blueberry Guacamole</strong></h2><p><strong>Ingredients:</strong></p><p><span>2 ripe avocados, seeded, peeled and cut into large chunks</span></p><p><span>1-2 limes, depending on how juicy they are</span></p><p><span>2 cloves fresh garlic, chopped</span></p><p><span>1/4 cup chopped red onion</span></p><p><span>1 jalape<span>ño, minced</span></span></p><p>1/2 cup fresh tomatoes, chopped</p><p>1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped</p><p>Salt and pepper, to taste</p><p>1/2 cup fresh blueberries</p><p><strong>Directions</strong></p><p><span>1. In a bowl, squeeze lime juice over the avocado chunks.</span></p><p><span>2. Add garlic, red onion, and jalapeno, then s</span><span>mash the ingredients together using a large fork.</span></p><p><span>3. Add tomatoes, cilantro, salt, and pepper, s</span><span>tirring them into the mix using a wooden spoon.</span></p><p>4. Garnish with fresh blueberries and serve!</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/best-drink-deals-bar-markups-beer-wine-cocktails-2015-5">Your favorite bar is ripping you off - here are the drinks that are worth spending money on </a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/6e12e8b3387a44daacfb73afba25a76e"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="lieGhkbjoITbFHv5zSUSngQJvs6JX_0p" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', 'lieGhkbjoITbFHv5zSUSngQJvs6JX_0p',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

Forget pea guacamole - I added blueberries to my classic guac recipe and the result was fantastic

<img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/593fea92c4adee20008b58b0-2400/yumi0373.jpg" alt="Yumi_0373" /><p class="source"><span>Yumi</span></p>At an upscale café in Manhattan, bouquets decorate a candlelit wooden table. Glass jars of rose water overnight oats and blueberry chia seed pudding, served family-style, sit in the center.<p>This isn't a normal brunch - it's a launch party for organic baby food delivery startup <a href="https://helloyumi.com/">Yumi</a>. And everything on the table is technically food for infants.</p><p>The company is pitching its products as a healthier option to store brands, which can contain high levels of sodium and sugar. A subscription service, Yumi delivers meals to customers' doors on a weekly basis, making it more convenient and less time-consuming than putting together food at home, according to the company co-founders. </p><p>"You used to live in a town where your mom and your grandma lived, and they used to help you. But now you live far away from home, and they might not know the right [baby] food to cook anymore," the company's co-founder, Angela Sutherland, tells Business Insider. "We want to support you, as a mother, so you don't have to think about those things."</p><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/593feb47c4adee2c008b58a2-2173/yumi.jpg" alt="yumi_" /><p class="source"><span>Yumi</span></p><p class="caption">Yumi co-founders Angela Sutherland (L) and Evelyn Rusli (R).</p><p>From 2010 to 2015, the organic baby food industry <a href="https://www.statista.com/topics/1218/baby-food-market/">grew</a> globally from $36.7 billion to $55 billion. At the same time, sales of traditional baby food <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/26/business/as-parents-make-their-own-industry-tries-to-adapt.html">have been declining</a> since 2005, partly due to an increase in parents making meals for their babies at home. Gerber, the top-selling baby food in the US, dropped by 2% within the category in 2016, <a href="http://www.euromonitor.com/baby-food-in-the-us/report">according to Euromonitor</a>. </p><p>To keep up, legacy brands like Gerber and <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/26/business/as-parents-make-their-own-industry-tries-to-adapt.html?_r=0">Beech-Nut</a> have added organic lines with trendy ingredients like quinoa and kale in recent years. </p><p>Yumi, which launched on June 13, works like many food delivery subscriptions: Customers sign up, pay a monthly fee, and meals are brought to their doorstep. All of the products are USDA-certified organic and contain simple ingredients, Sutherland says. The service is available throughout California, and will expand more widely in the future.</p><p>Even for organic baby food, Yumi's prices are on the high side. Depending on which of the three plans you pick, meals range from $6.07 to $8.33 each. For comparison, a 3.5-ounce pouch of Gerber's organic veggies <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Gerber-2nd-Foods-Organic-Veggies-Carrot-Zucchini-Broccoli-Baby-Food-3.5-oz/36576690?wmlspartner=wlpa&amp;selectedSellerId=0&amp;adid=22222222227063024369&amp;wmlspartner=wmtlabs&amp;wl0=&amp;wl1=g&amp;wl2=c&amp;wl3=166152590308&amp;wl4=pla-272952394962&amp;wl5=9060351&amp;wl6=&amp;wl7=&amp;wl8=&amp;wl9=pla&amp;wl10=8175035&amp;wl11=online&amp;wl12=36576690&amp;wl13=&amp;veh=sem#about-item">costs $1.25</a> at Walmart.</p><p>But Gerber doesn't offer a weekly delivery service or chef-prepared, nutrient-dense meals.</p><p>To see how customers might respond to the food and prices, the company conducted a pilot test with 100 babies (and their parents) in early 2017. One Santa Monica-based parent who participated, Natalie Bruss, tells Business Insider that ordering Yumi is worth the time and money she normally spent preparing organic baby food at home.</p><p><span>"I was paying a nanny on Saturday or Sunday afternoons to spend prime-time with my son, Jack, so that I could slave away in the kitchen trying to purée him beets and add wheat germ oil and this and that. It was too complicated. Meanwhile, I could hear Jack goo-ing and gaga-ing," she says. "So, I thought, 'Why am I doing this when I could be spending time with my kid?'"</span></p><p>Bruss used to pay a babysitter $60 to watch her son while she prepared weekly meals. So she considers the $50 plan (for 6 meals a week) a bargain, and supplements it with organic, store-bought meal pouches.</p><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/593fea92c4adee10548b4908-2400/yumi0460.jpg" alt="Yumi_0460" /><p class="source"><span>Yumi</span></p><p><span>Yumi isn't the only startup offering high-end organic baby food. </span></p><p><span>Tinder co-founder Sean Rad and Chobani co-founder Kyle O'Brien were early backers in a similar service called <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/baby-food-53-billion-food-opportunity-2017-4">Little Spoon</a>, which launched in New York in April 2017. <a href="https://www.raisedreal.com/">Raised Real</a>, a California-based company that started delivery on the West Coast in 2016, is more like a Blue Apron for baby food. (It sends customers organic ingredients, and they purée the food themselves.) Other healthy meal delivery startups, <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2017/02/23/thistle-launches-meal-kits-to-make-nutritious-baby-food-at-home/">Thistle</a> and <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2016/06/29/ayesha-curry-stephs-wife-launches-a-new-food-delivery-startup/">Gather</a>, have recently added organic baby food to their offerings. </span></p><p><span>To date, Yumi has <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/baby-food-53-billion-food-opportunity-2017-4">raised</a> $4.1 million in VC funding, led by Brand Foundry, August Capital, and NEA. </span><span>Sutherland, previously a director at the private equity firm Sierra Partners, founded the company with former Wall Street Journal reporter Evelyn Rusli. The company says its target demographic is new parents, most of whom are millennials.</span></p><p><span>"People want more from a food brand - this is not Gerber," Sutherland says. "Millennials want transparency. That's one of the reasons why our food is transparent. It's in a see-through container, so you see what you're getting."</span></p><p><span>"If we say this is kale, it is kale," Rusli says. "There is <em>that</em> much green stuff [in the container]. There's no hiding it."</span></p><p><span></span></p><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/593fea92c4adee3a008b5803-2400/yumi0415.jpg" alt="Yumi_0415" /><p class="source"><span>Yumi</span></p>To ensure the meals include the right nutrients, the founders worked with nutritionist Nicole Avena, who followed <a href="https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/UCM513817.pdf">the FDA's 2016 Recommend Daily Intake</a> for infants. She tells BI she paid special attention to how vegetable and fruit nutrients change when puréed. For example, apple purées <a href="http://llink.to/?u=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/71495&amp;e=da662eee2e44d844a07552749edce6fd">have been shown</a> to cause higher insulin levels <a href="http://llink.to/?u=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8499937&amp;e=da662eee2e44d844a07552749edce6fd">than smashed bananas</a>, while certain blended berries <a href="http://llink.to/?u=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22854401&amp;e=da662eee2e44d844a07552749edce6fd">can reduce</a> insulin levels. <p><span>While some studies suggest homemade baby food is healthier than commercial brands</span><span>, most of the research on early pediatric nutrition is new. </span></p><p><span>"We don't know all the answers yet," Carina Venter, a registered dietitian at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and co-author of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28462729">a new narrative review</a> of infant nutrition research, tells Business Insider.</span></p><p><span>In her review, she found there are a handful of key concerns with most store-bought baby food. Yumi manages to avoid many of them.</span></p><p><span> There is little data available about nutrient profiles for store-bought baby food; it often lacks texture, which can stunt infants' development ability to chew; there is little variety in the ingredients, which in early life has been associated with increased risk of asthma; and the microbial load (the amount of good bacteria) in commercial baby foods is typically much lower than in homemade foods.</span></p><p><span>Organic foods, on the other hand, have been shown to contribute to a more diverse gut microbiome, which can prevent conditions like allergy development, inflammatory bowel disease, depression, and anxiety.</span></p><p>"We put rosewater in the oats - You would never make that at home," Sutherland says of Yumi's food. "Parents can eat it too. It's a new kind of baby food."</p>            <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-favorite-job-interview-question-answer-2017-5">How to answer Elon Musk's favorite job interview question</a></h3>                                    Please enable Javascript to watch this video                    

A startup for millennial parents is banking on a $55 billion food opportunity no one talks about

The 24 Items Everyone Should Have In Their Kitchen

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d4f-2000/baked chocolate cake finished comparison.jpg" alt="Baked chocolate cake finished comparison" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p></div><p></p></div></div>Using boxed cake mix at home is to be expected in most people's lives - but when the time comes, which brand should you choose? <keyword id="79969" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="insider">INSIDER</keyword> decided to put four chocolate cake mixes to the test and settle the question once and for all. </p><p>We went to our local New York City grocery store, <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/auSnXjeb6FD2">Best Market</a>, and sought out the boxed cake section.</p><h3>We purchased four brands: Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, and the generic grocery store brand "Best Yet."</h3><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d50-2000/all four cake mixes side by side chocolate cake test.jpg" alt="All four cake mixes side by side chocolate cake test" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>Each brand had a "Devil's Food" chocolate cake mix, except Duncan Hines. Theirs was "Swiss Chocolate." The image on the box looked similar enough to the other three that we decided to buy it anyways, figuring chocolate cake is chocolate cake, right?</p><p>We soon learned how wrong we were, but more on that later.</p><p>(Side note: We have to applaud each brand for coming up with a unique take on "moist" for their boxed advertising. Pillsbury boasts a "moist supreme" cake, while Betty's is "super moist," Duncan's claims to be "deliciously moist," and Best Yet is simply "moist and tasty.")</p><h2>Step One: Mixing our ingredients.</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d51-2400/eggs water and oil boxed cake mix comparison.jpg" alt="Eggs water and oil boxed cake mix comparison  Sydney Kim" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption">Large eggs, vegetable oil, and water is all you need for boxed cake perfection.</p></div><p></p></div></div>Each of the mixes only required three additional ingredients (eggs, vegetable oil, and water) though the quantities changed slightly for some. All four cake mixes required three eggs, but different amounts of oil and water.</p><p>Below are the exact measurements we added according to each brand's instructions:</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>Pillsbury and Duncan Hines:</strong></p><ul style="padding-left: 30px;"><li>½ cup of vegetable oil</li><li>1 cup of water</li></ul><p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>Betty Crocker:</strong></p><ul style="padding-left: 30px;"><li><span>½</span> cup of vegetable oil</li><li>1 ¼ cups of water</li></ul><p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>Best Yet:</strong></p><ul style="padding-left: 30px;"><li>1/3 cup of vegetable oil</li><li>1 cup of water</li></ul><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d52-2400/pillsbury cake mix baking comparison.jpg" alt="Pillsbury cake mix baking comparison" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption">We started with Pillsbury, of course.</p></div><p></p></div></div>We decided to hand mix each batter with a whisk and a wooden spoon. Consistency is key for kitchen experiments!</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d53-2400/whisk and batter boxed cake comparisons.jpg" alt="Whisk and batter boxed cake comparisons  Sydney Kim" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption">Chocolate cake batter is perfectly gooey.</p></div><p></p></div></div>The Duncan Hines and Best Yet mixes were noticeably lumpier, and took some extra elbow grease when it came to whisking.</p><p>We also noticed the Duncan Hines' batter was significantly lighter in color than its fellows. Clearly the "Swiss Chocolate" mix was not as similar to "Devil's Food" as we'd assumed. The cake (on the box) was a lie.</p><p>Another important difference came from the Betty Crocker mix. Because of the extra ¼ cup of water required, the batter was a lot runnier than the other three, though it seemed to thicken after mixing a bit. </p><h2>Step Two: Baking</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d54-2400/cake batter pour boxed cake comparisons .jpg" alt="Cake batter pour boxed cake comparisons  Sydney Kim" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption">Batter waterfall!</p></div><p></p></div></div>Each batter was poured into a 8" round cake pan lined with parchment paper and greased with spray-on vegetable oil.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d55-2400/all four boxed cake comparison batters .jpg" alt="All four boxed cake comparison batters   Sydney Kim" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption">Please forgive our mis-matched mixing bowls, but we assure you each cake pan was identical.</p></div><p></p></div></div>The Best Yet batter looked promising and standard as far as cake mixes go. Betty Crocker's, as noted earlier, was a slightly more "wet" consistency, and was also beginning to bubble more (similar to the way pancake mix does when you let it sit). </p><p>The Duncan Hines mix was a paler brown color, which looked even less appealing right next to the rich chocolaty brown of the Pillsbury mix.</p><p>Into the oven they went - 350° for 26 minutes (the lowest time each brand's instructions gave).</p><p>In the end, each cake except Betty Crocker was done after the allotted 26 minutes. Due to the added water and moisture in the mix, Betty Crocker's cake required an additional 4 minutes of bake time. </p><h2>Step Three: Tasting</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d56-2400/all four baked cakes side by side boxed cake comparison.jpg" alt="All four baked cakes side by side boxed cake comparison Sydney Kim" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption"> Tasty cakes awaiting judgment. </p></div><p></p></div></div>Once baked and cooled, the real test began: TASTE. Of course, we eat with our eyes first.</p><h3>Best Yet</h3><p>This cake was a bit flatter around the edges, with a good rise in the center and decent chocolate sheen. The tast was rich, but not too sweet, and very chocolaty. A forkful held together nicely without crumbling.</p><h3>Duncan Hines</h3><p>The "Swiss chocolate" looked pale and un-appetizing next to all the others. The taste was definitely more of a milk chocolate than a dark, "devil's food." It was also on the dry side.</p><h3>Betty Crocker</h3><p>This cake also looked promising, with a rich brown color and shiny finish. It was noticeably lumpier, though, and had an uneven rise. The taste was decent, and it held together with a tighter crumb structure. </p><h3>Pillsbury</h3><p>The last cake looked the tastiest to us, with a perfect shiny top and not too many craters. This one also had a great flavor, slightly better than Betty Crocker's, but it fell apart much more easily.</p><h2>THE VERDICT</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57e997f8dd0895c5598b4d57-2400/boxed cakes stacked and cut comparison.jpg" alt="Boxed cakes stacked and cut comparison  Sydney Kim" data-mce-source="Sydney Kramer/INSIDER" /><p class="source"><span>Sydney Kramer/INSIDER</span></p><p class="caption">From top to bottom: Pillsbury, Duncan Hines, Best Yet, Betty Crocker.</p></div><p></p></div></div><strong>Best Yet lived up to its name - it was, well, the best!</strong></p><p>Though Pillsbury made a good showing, Best Yet's chocolate cake had the overall better chocolate flavor. The consistency was also perfect - truly moist and smooth. With a bit a frosting on top, it would be the perfect cake. </p><p>Betty Crocker's was fine, but not quite on the same level as Pillsbury and Best Yet.</p><p>And then there's Duncan Hines. Unless your friend or loved one has a (wrong) aversion to rich, dark chocolate cake, don't make them this cake. The milk chocolate flavor was overly sweet while also somehow being bland. </p><p>We realize not everyone has a Best Market in their neighborhood, but this is a lesson learned in trusting off brand products. Next time you're in the boxed cake section of a grocery store, you can trust the (probably cheaper) store brand of boxed "Devil's Food" cake over a ritzier name.</p><p>And if you must rely on known brands, go with Pillsbury.</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/this-woman-shared-her-beauty-tips-while-fighting-cancer-2016-9">This woman shared her beauty tips while fighting cancer</a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/6e12e8b3387a44daacfb73afba25a76e"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="oycml3NTE6mJoJzLx6w5cqMkWvLeAycY" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', 'oycml3NTE6mJoJzLx6w5cqMkWvLeAycY',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

You Searched For "new wooden spoon" and got 13 results

How to clean ceramic cookware

Mary Marlowe Leverette

A few hotels are starting to offer honeymoon-at-home care packages for couples with postponed weddings — here's everything included for under $500, including a gift card toward a future stay

Emily Hochberg

A local's ultimate guide to visiting Brighton, a seaside city in England

Jennifer Barton

Here are the best and worst performers in global markets in 2016

Will Martin

A woman's TikTok shows her turning watermelon into vegan sushi in just 4 easy steps

Anneta Konstantinides

IPL 2017: MS Dhoni is no more the captain of Rising Pune Supergiants. Here’s who replaced him

BI India Bureau

The sister of Fahim Saleh — the CEO found dismembered in his NYC apartment — says her baby brother's killing is a devastating loss for their tight-knit immigrant family

Haven Orecchio-Egresitz

In a first for Pixar, 'Coco' was created with the help of people outside the company

Jason Guerrasio

Forget pea guacamole - I added blueberries to my classic guac recipe and the result was fantastic

Emily Cohn

A startup for millennial parents is banking on a $55 billion food opportunity no one talks about

Leanna Garfield

The 24 Items Everyone Should Have In Their Kitchen

Insider Picks

We tested 4 boxed cake mixes and figured out the only brand worth buying

Kim Renfro,Sydney Kramer

66 life-changing things you can do with a lemon

Megan Willett