You can stop looking
Billed as “chicken salad made easy,” Swanson chicken salad seasoning included dextrose, dehydrated onion and garlic, salt, sugar, artificial and natural flavors, including leek powder. When you combined the mix with a can of Swanson chicken and mayonnaise, you created the Swanson version of chicken salad. Unfortunately for those of you who have been searching for this seasoning, Swanson stopped making it a few years ago. And you know that the stock has dried up when it’s no longer available on Amazon or eBay.
Q: I’m trying to find concentrated real vanilla. It might be called something else, but it’s stronger than regular vanilla and you can use less. Can you find it, please? C. Pierce, email
A: Penzeys double-strength vanilla extract is made by using twice as many Madagascar vanilla beans as those in the single-strength version, allowing you to use half as much. The double-strength vanilla extract comes in several sizes, including a 2-ounce bottle for $7.49 and a 16-ounce bottle for $39.95. You’ll find double-strength vanilla at Penzeys Spices, 6235 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, 404-256-7970.
Q: I am looking for a cinnamon sugar grinder for the top of my whipped creamer in my coffee. Trader Joe’s used to have them, then stopped carrying them. Then I found a Whole Foods brand and now they have stopped carrying those. I have even tried online to no avail. Please help — my morning coffee is not the same. Staci Owen, Alpharetta
A: Since spice grinders are pretty popular, I'm surprised that cinnamon sugar you can grind yourself is so elusive. However, I found two that you can purchase online. Old Thompson offers cinnamon sugar in a 2.9-ounce glass grinder for $8 each through www.oldethompson.com. Spice Islands also makes a cinnamon sugar grinder that's not available in any Georgia stores, but you can purchase it through www.pantryful.com. Spice Islands cinnamon sugar comes in a 3.2-ounce jar and sells for $5.70.
Q: Some years ago you helped me solve a problem and I’m hoping you can do your magic again. Recently, I have started collecting old cut glass containers that resemble planters. I would like to drill holes in the bottom for drainage. What type of drill bit will get my new project going? Thanks a million. Shelley Stegg, email
A: Shelley, you’ll need diamond coated drill bits, which will allow you to effortlessly drill through glass as well as marble and even semi-precious stones. Check out Harbor Freight, 4776 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, 678-579-9854. A set of four Warrior bits in different sizes costs $4.99. Remember when you’re drilling into glass, you’ll have to use water as a lubricant. And don’t forget gloves and safety glasses. Good luck with your project.
