The Silpat

Hmmmm, I wonder how it took me so long to figure this one out! It's a silpat!! Yep, one of the best creations for the kitchen! It makes finding the right baking paper (which is sometimes a trick in a foreign land) obsolete. It's simply a silicon mat you lay on your baking tray. The best bit is you save money and resources at the same time!

Here she is in action:

I use mine all the time for baking everything from pizza to cookies. Another added bonus is that the silpat indeed bakes goods more evenly than a sheet of paper on a tray. When you're done baking all you need to do is give your silpat a quick wash and, viola, you're ready for your next baking adventure (and some freshly baked yummies).

http://silpat.com/

This is just one of the many kitchen saving tips. Do you have any to share?

What a Resource: Basel Expats

Where can I find ...? Does anyone have...? How do I do....? Would anyone like to buy...? Fill in the blanks and send them off to those who know the answers. First, sign up to the yahoo group "Basel Expats".

Now, I primarily use this group to find out about good deals, but it also is the quickest way to get your question out to as many expats / locals as possible and therefore increases your chances for getting the best advice. Believe me many folks are out there just waiting to help answer your questions.

I'd like to share with you a few questions I had answered within hours of posting:

How do I get my french license? What does that involve?
Does anyone have recommendations for plasters, painter, etc...?
I'm looking for a bike trailer. Anyone looking to sell?

By far the most exciting aspect of this group is the thrill of the hunt! When we first moved into our house (well, even before since it took so long) I was up every morning checking for sales. Our house is now very well furnished with barely used wardrobes, (American) couches, chairs, lamps and wool rugs!

It's a great way to get great deals and help those in transition. When and if you end up moving away or moving this way you can look to Basel Expats for some help.