Reading up on NYT Cooking

Reverse-searing a rib‑eye steak — low oven then grill — guarantees a perfect crust and tender interior for Labor Day cooking using a dry rub and instant-read thermometer.

NYT Cooking offers three utensil-free holiday snack recipes — popcorn with peanuts, savory spiced nuts, and coconut caramel clusters — ideal for parties or gifts.

Creamy mashed potatoes can be made using only potatoes, sour cream, and the reserved starchy cooking water, omitting butter and milk.