How to rescue your worst cooking disasters

This article was originally published February 3, 2017.

Even the world's most talented chefs can make mistakes. You leave the burner on too long and suddenly you're left with a smoky mess instead of the mouth-watering meal you were planning. Well, it's time to stop crying over spilled milk and split batter. Thanks to Shahir, we've got some amazing solutions for your worst cooking disasters. Try these tricks the next time you're in a pinch.

How to save split batter

If you've added your eggs before creaming your butter and sugar together your batter will most likely split. You'll know it has if it resembles tiny cheese curds instead of a nice fluffy, combined batter. To fix this flub, slowly add your mixed dry ingredients to your split mixture while constantly mixing. The gradualaddition will absorb the split curds of butter and help give you a fluffy batter.

How to save overcooked rice

We've all done it, put on a pot of rice on the stove and forgot to set a timer. Save your overcooked rice by turning it into an Italian favourite, Arancini! Simply form rice into golf ball sized balls and stuff themwith grated or cubed cheese, peas or even leftover cubes of meat. Use a classic breading station to coat your balls in flour, then whisked eggs, then seasoned bread crumbs.Bake in a 375 F oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

How to save overcooked meat

Don't throw that overcooked roast or hunk of meat in the trash, turn it into Manicotti! To do so, cube your meat and add to a food processor.Add ricotta, diced carrot, onion, celery and garlic, and fresh herbs.The ricotta and veggies will add much needed moisture to your dry hunk of overcooked meat.You'll know you have added enough ricotta when your mixture is a smooth paste and can be piped out a piping bag. Season as desired.Pipe filling out of a piping bag and into cooked manicotti shells.Bake in the oven with tomato sauce or serve with hot tomato sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

How to save burnt cake

Turn your overcooked, cracked or burnt cake into Parfaits!Cut off burnt bits and dice your cake into 1 inch cubes. Then, use your favourite liqueur, simple syrup or fruit juice to toss and soak cubes of cake in.Soak for at least five minutes toadd moisture back to the cake and give it a zing of flavour.Layer in a decorative glass with fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, pudding or custard, whatever you have on hand!