Sometime in my early 20s, I read an article pointing out how weird it is that humans are the only animal to not only drink milk from another species, but to continue drinking it into adulthood. That was enough for me to switch to almond milk for the past 20 years, and I never really questioned that decision until a few years ago, when carrageenan (an ingredient that thickens many plant-based milks) began to spark health concerns in the news. So what gives? Is carrageenan really all that bad? And what about all the other multisyllabic ingredients in non-dairy milks? Reporter Beth Krietsch spoke with experts to explain everything, so give it a read.

XO, Kristen

Have you been baking with the wrong kind of butter all this time?

European or American? Salted or unsalted? Baking professionals explain the best butter for the job, and they don't all agree.

Why BIPOC chefs are rolling their eyes when you demand substitutions

In tandem with AAPI Heritage Month, Hmong American chef Yia Vang talked to us about being ashamed of his mom’s cooking when he was a kid, yearning for Lunchables and SunnyD, and finally coming full circle to tell the story of his parents and his people through their traditional recipes. He also explains why it's offensive to ask a chef to change the way he makes traditional foods: "I’ve had enough of the narrative that runs like, 'We support you and your brown skin, but now can I get a vegan version of that, hold the hot sauce?'"

The highest-rated grills to get for cookouts

Whether you’re a beginner or a master griller, it can be difficult to know if a grill will maintain proper temperature control or ensure consistent cooking unless you have tried it out yourself. To save yourself some trouble, take a look at this list of highly rated outdoor grills with promising reviews. Find portable options so you can grill virtually anywhere, classic kettle-style charcoal grills from well-loved brands and large-capacity cart grills for all your larger gatherings.

Stock up:

• Organize Your Kitchen Like The Hosts Of The Home Edit

• This Simple $2 Sheet Will Make Your Produce Last Longer

• Grilling Accessories That Make Cookouts And Barbecues Way Easier

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