What Is a Ham Hock? 3 Southern Chefs Explain, and Share Their Best Recipes

Its easy to confuse with a ham bone, but theyre actually different. Find out whyand what a ham hock can do for your recipes. We spoke with Southern chefs to get the dish. Credit:Getty Images / Shaiith What Is a Ham Hock? Think of ham as the thigh and butt portion of a hogs back legs. The ham bone is what remains after you roast and carve that portion. The major difference is that ham hock is meant for seasoning....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 237 words · Bryan Williams

What Is a Heat Pump? Get to Know This Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling Device

Find out if this heating and cooling system is a good alternative for your home. Nancy Pauwels / Adobe Stock Heating and cooling technology has advanced considerably over the years to keep homes comfortable. However, you could be missing out on new and more effective technology, like a heat pump. Credit:Nancy Pauwels / Adobe Stock What Is a Heat Pump? A heat pump is a heating and cooling appliance installed outside the home, similar to an air conditioner....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 243 words · Bradley Robinson

What Is a Keeping Room—and Why It Might Be the Cozy Space Your Home Has Been Missing

This centuries-old room brings the essence of comfort to the heart of the home. Though centuries old, keeping rooms are making a comeback in contemporary houses. “They’re a great gathering space for family and friends while the party prep is happening.” Credit: Eric Piasecki “It allows everyone to get close to the actionbut not too close to the busy chef. Everyone knows that the kitchen is the hub of the house and that they are primarilymade of hard surfaces....

May 4, 2025 · 1 min · 177 words · Bryan Warren

What Is a Kitchenette? Plus How It Differs from a Kitchen

Ever wondered about the difference between a kitchenette and a kitchen? Learn the pros and cons of the layout. Peter Rymwid A kitchen is an essential part of every home. Credit:Peter Rymwid So whats the difference? The suffix “ette” means “small.” A kitchenette is a smaller, more compact version of a traditional kitchen. Credit:Ellie Lillstrom In a home, kitchenettes are ideal forfinished basements, in-law suites, or short-term rentals. But for a large family, a kitchenette has its limitations....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 400 words · Brad Mckenzie

What Is a Manufactured Home? Plus How It Differs from a Modular Home

Those were not built to last and were constructed very cheaply. The homes built today are made to last 50+ years and have come a long way. Manufactured homes differ from modular homes. Credit:Getty Images / Marje What Is a Manufactured Home? Manufactured homes are built at factories,shipped to home sites, and installed. So the lower price point might mean that these homes are smaller, maybe a little lower quality....

May 4, 2025 · 3 min · 431 words · Laura Ruiz

What Is a Manzano Banana? Get to Know This Adorable Fruit

It may be small, but the miniature Manzano banana is packed with flavor. Here’s what to know about these adorable little fruits. What Is a Manzano Banana? Credit: Yoyochow23/Getty Images They have a firm, thick skin that turns dark yellow when the banana is ripe. What Does a Manzano Banana Taste Like? Manzano bananas are sometimes called Manzano apple bananas or simply, apple bananas. Until they’re ripe, store the bananas at room temperature....

May 4, 2025 · 1 min · 147 words · Amber Middleton

What Is a Master-Planned Community? Benefits and Drawbacks to Consider

Experts explain the potential pros and cons of a master-planned community. Now, master-planned communities have joined the housing options. Master-planned communities offer a massive array of amenities, all within blocks of your home. Credit:Getty Images / AlenaMozhjer This development is planned and built by a development team that curates it to be functionally and aesthetically attractive. Well take a look at what a master-planned community includes and whether its right for your lifestyle....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 250 words · Phyllis Johnson

What Is a Mattress Topper, and Do You Need One?

What is a mattress topper? It could be your quickest path to a better nights sleep. However, not everyone is in the market for a new mattress. Credit:Getty Images / AndreyPopov This is where mattress toppers can be a major help. But what is a mattress topper? An affordable and practical solution,mattress toppersenhance the comfort and support provided by an existing mattress. In some cases, a topper can alsoextend the lifespan of the mattress....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 395 words · Alexis Rodriguez

What Is a Meyer Lemon? And How Is it Different from a Regular Lemon?

This cross between a lemon and a mandarin has a surprisingly sweet flavor. You may have also noticed they’re more orange and rounder than other lemons. Appearance isn’t the only thing different about this sweet citrus fruit. Credit:AnnaPustynnikova/Getty Images What Are Meyer Lemons? They have gained popularity in recent years for their pale orange flesh, sweet taste, and floral notes. You’ll see Meyer lemon used in everything from cocktails to desserts....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 281 words · Vincent Brown

What Is a Modular Home—and Is It Worth Buying One?

A modular home can be a smart, affordable option for people in a competitive home market. But what is a modular home? It sits on the slab or foundation where it is pieced together. Credit: Marje / Getty Images Modular homes are similar tomanufactured homes, except (among other differences) they’re built to different codes. Modular homes are different thanRVs and mobile homes, too. “RVs are mobile, meaning they aren’t constructed on a foundation like a modular home....

May 4, 2025 · 3 min · 454 words · Lawrence Brown

What Is a Murphy Bed? Pros and Cons to Know

What is a Murphy bed, and how is it different from a standard bed? The innovative sleep solution is all about multi-functionality and space-saving. What is a Murphy bed, you ask? Credit:David Greer What is a Murphy bed, exactly? Stacy Zarin Goldberg How Much Does a Murphy Bed Cost? Because of the tailor-made nature, custom Murphy beds are usually more expensive than ready-made options. Credit:Stacy Zarin Goldberg In most cases, Murphy beds are not sold with a mattressthe two are typically sold separately....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 381 words · Kelly Bowers

What Is a Parlor? Experts Explain the History and Design Styles

Parlor rooms, also known as reception rooms, have existed since theVictorian era. After the early 1800s, parlor rooms became a fixture in middle and upper-class American homes. They are natural gathering places for guests and families to enjoy an entertaining afternoon or evening. Credit:Annie Schlechter Since parlors reflect each familys personality, much thought goes into furnishings and design. What Is a Parlor? The word parlorstems from the French wordparler,meaning to speak....

May 4, 2025 · 2 min · 345 words · Vicki Ramirez

What is a Pergola? Plus How to Choose the Right One for Your Yard

Are you wondering what is a pergola versus a gazebo? We answer those questions plus the pros and cons. What is a pergola, exactly? Credit: Blaine Moats Some areattached to the side of a house or garage, while others are freestanding. These outdoor features are typically made from weather-resistant wood, metal, or stone. Pergolas are used to create shaded walkways, designated gathering spaces, andclimbing plantdesigns. Credit: Paul Costello While they block some direct daylight, their open roof structure allows light to peek through....

May 4, 2025 · 3 min · 490 words · Gabriel Gross