Quality’s One Good Reason to Keep Eggs in the Carton

Question: Why are we advised to store eggs in their original carton in the refrigerator? I have always kept mine in the trays provided in the door of my appliance, yet nowadays we are told not to do this. I surely am curious as to the reason.

Answer: Margaret Stokes of the Egg Nutrition Center in Washington explains eggs need to be stored at a temperature both cool and constant. Unfortunately, sections designed for eggs are often located in one of the warmest parts of the refrigerator (the frequently opened door or near the butter keeper), compromising egg quality. For this reason, the Center recommends storing eggs in the original carton on one of the refrigerator shelves, where an optimum temperature is more likely to be present.

Q: I have yet to learn how to skim off the fat when making gravy for any just-cooked roast or poultry without first thoroughly chilling in the refrigerator, which time generally will not permit.

Despite recipe instructions, I can find no way to remove more than a little fat while it is still blended with the hot broth and drippings. I would be most grateful for your help.

A: In “Joy of Cooking” (Bobbs-Merrill, 1986) authors Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker explain there are several ways to pour off the fat quickly when making gravy. “One is to pour all the juices into a heat-proof glass container and submerge it in cold water. The fat will rise at once and can be spooned off. Another, if there is more fat than stock, is to use a baster: tip the pan and siphon off the good juices from underneath the top layer of grease.”

There are also measuring cups made for this purpose. They have a pouring spout located near the bottom of the cup that enables you to pour off the juices after the fat rises to the top.

Q: Years ago we used to be able to buy spice cake mixes. I can’t find one on the grocery shelves anywhere. Many men prefer it to others--me, too.

A: Duncan Hines still makes a spice cake mix. The local distributor says it’s available at Albertson’s Inc., Alpha Beta Company stores, Hughes Markets, Lucky Stores, Inc., Stater Bros. Markets, Inc. and Vons Grocery Company stores. If you don’t find it, ask the store manager.

Address questions on food preparation to You Asked About ..., Food Section, The Times, Times Mirror Square, Los Angeles 90053. Personal replies cannot be given.