World’s worse cook

According to the second annual cooking survey of 1,041 men and women from the Park Ridge, Ill.-based American Egg Board, 50 percent of Americans reported having a disaster in the kitchen at least several times a year, and 42 percent said they know someone in desperate need of basic cooking skills. More than three-fourths of respondents (78 percent) believe that people today are worse cooks than people were 50 years ago. Howard Helmer, the Guinness World Records "World's Fastest Omelet Maker," wants to help by encouraging home cooks of all ability levels to embrace the kitchen and take the spatula back into their own hands. Many Americans are worried about their wallets getting thinner, and with more than 70 percent of meals being prepared at home in 2007, according to NPD, it's a perfect opportunity for families to spend more time learning how to make easy, affordable and delicious dishes. Few foods are as versatile and economical as the incredible edible egg. In fact, 90 percent of those surveyed agreed that eggs are a good value and reasonably priced. Helmer believes that even the worst cooks can master easy egg dishes. "I'm famous for my record-breaking omelet-making speed, but omelets are just the beginning when it comes to simple egg recipes! Even a novice can create an elegant quiche, frittata, or a strata casserole, and all it takes is a positive attitude, some patience and almost anything you have in your refrigerator or pantry," says Helmer. But, if you are hopeless in the kitchen, why not enter the American Egg Board’s second annual "Search for America's Worst Cook" contest? Entering is easy. Simply visit http://www.AmericasWorstCook.com, and in 200 words or less along with a video or photograph(s), tell the American Egg Board why you -- or someone you know -- are in desperate need of cooking help. The winner will be featured in an advertisement for the American Egg Board and will win a trip for two to New York City to take cooking classes and enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of one of the greatest culinary cities in the world. The contest runs from through June 30, 2008. I nominate my daughter-in-law, who called to ask me which was the oven and which was the broiler!  American Egg Board