Safe way to get a grip if touching hot food
History
The word 'tongs' possibly comes from the Greek word daknein meaning 'to bite'. Tongs have been in use since before the 12th century. They have become one of the most effective and popular tools for gripping food during cooking - especially during the grilling process, where chefs use them for picking up food to avoid burning themselves.
There are also tongs designed specifically for picking up sugar cubes and serving salad.
Veggie burger
Tongs are an essential tool when you're barbecuing, but instead of cooking the usual sausages and chicken wings, why not go for a veggie burger? They taste great and are so much healthier than their meat counterparts.
Try: Cul-De-Sac, G/F, 17 Wing Wah Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, Central. Tel: 2525 8116
Quesadillas
These cheesy Mexican snacks are made by dry-frying a tortilla, spreading fillings over half of it, using a pair of tongs to fold it in half, then half again, then serving with sour cream, salsa and guacamole.
Try: El Taco Loco, 9 Lower Staunton Street, Soho, Central, Tel: 2522 0214
Quick Banana Boats
Ingredients
4 medium unpeeled ripe bananas
4 teaspoons miniature chocolate chips
4 tablespoons miniature marshmallows
Method
Slice into the banana about 1cm deep, starting and ending the cut 1cm from either end.
Open the peel to form a pocket, then fill with 1 tbsp marshmallows and 1 tsp chocolate chips.
Place on a piece of foil about 30cm square, and crimp foil around fruit to form a boat. Repeat for the remaining bananas.
Using tongs, place the boats under a pre-heated grill or on the barbecue, for 5-10 minutes, or until marshmallows melt and are golden brown. Remove carefully, using tongs, allow to cool a little, and enjoy.
