Alexa has all kinds of fun hacks to make cooking easier

Thanksgiving is nearly upon us, which means it’s time to start cooking! I love spending time in the kitchen, but those once-a-year menus can be tricky. Here are three quick Alexa tricks to keep in your apron pocket on T-day. 

Keep track of your tools. I use a turkey baster maybe twice a year, so I told Alexa to note where I keep it. Then, if I forget, I just ask her. To make the note, say “Alexa, make a note.” She’ll ask what the note is; then tell her, “The turkey baster is in the bottom shelf in the pantry.” When you get caught up in the day and forget where you put it, ask, “Alexa, where is the turkey baster?” and she’ll tell you. (Note: This can be a little wonky, so test it when you first make the note, and can still remember where the baster is!)

Suggest recipe substitutions. Midway through dinner prep and you run out of butter? Chances are Alexa will help. Ask, ‘Alexa, can you substitute olive oil for butter?” She’ll give you the ratio you need. Or ask “Alexa, can you substitute bread flour for white flour?” and she’ll tell you how much, and how it works. Cool, right?

Tell you safe cooking guidelines. The last thing you want to do is serve an undercooked turkey! Ask, “Alexa, what is the ideal internal temperature for cooked turkey?” You can also ask things like, “Alexa, how long does it take to cook a 10-lb turkey?” or “Alexa, how long can you keep leftover turkey?”