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Notes from first cooking class: It is easier to crush garlic when you add a pinch of salt. The granuals act like sand and speed the grinding process. The bottom tip of the onion contains the gas that causes crying, so better to throw it away. (Except I never cry and hate to waste food.) The Five S's of Soup: S-slice/dice S-saute S-stock S-simmer S-season Don't hold just the handle of the knife but pinch the top of the blade when cutting. This keeps the blade from wiggling. Don't tell M how to cook anything. Ever. Even when she is doing something wrong. She has just learned how to wield the knife too. The secret ingredient in vinagrette is a dab of honey.