How to...Open Stubborn Jars

If there's one thing men (or really good biceps) are useful for, it's opening jars. I hate buying some new ingredient that's essential to a recipe and then banging on it for thirty minutes because the stupid top won't come off. Here's a few tips the next time the top refuses to let you win:

• Use the heel of your hand to smack the bottom of the jar a couple times to redistribute the air pressue on the top. An oldie but goodie.
• If you have a pointed end on your countertop, bang the top of the jar against the underside of the countertop a few times. Be careful with this one if you don't plan on using all the contents. You don't want to pop a hole in it.
• If you have a tennis ball laying around, you can cut it in half and use the rubber lining to help you. It also works well if you have some rubber gloves.

If all else fails, get a man or head to the gym!

Best dishes,

Young Mommy Chef