Used in the base for sauces, soups, and more, homemade chicken stock can put the "wow factor" in even the most ordinary of recipes. If you believe homemade chicken stock is too complicated to make, think again! These four recipes break the process down into easy-to-manage steps, so you'll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time flat.

Delicious Homemade Chicken Stock [Instructables]

How to Make Chicken Stock [The Kitchn]

Stock Convictions [Michael Ruhlman]

How to Make Chicken Stock [Simply Recipes]

CC-BY-SA-3.0/Flickr/The Culinary Geek

Offering little tastes of something creamy, savory, and sweet all at once, a cheese plate always draws a crowd at any party. Whether you're planning a small, intimate gathering of friends or a large, elaborate affair for many people, follow these seven tips to assemble a wow-worthy cheese platter.

1. Establish a theme by selecting cheeses that represent a variety of textures, milks, and countries of origin. For example, a soft, creamy brie will pair nicely with a sharp cheddar and an aged gouda. If you have time, consider labeling each cheese, so your guests know exactly what they're experiencing.
2. Expect to serve one to two ounces of cheese per person.
3. To prevent intermingling of flavors, give each cheese its own cheese knife.
4. Choose a simple wood, slate, or bamboo cutting board to provide a natural platform for the cheese and make cutting easier for your guests.
5. Cured meats, like prosciutto and salami, are a welcome addition to any cheese plate. Also consider adding small bowls of gourmet honey, chutneys, jams, and mustards. Nuts, dried fruits, and olives are also fitting accompaniments.
6. Opt for neutral-flavored crackers and breads so as to not overpower the flavors of the cheese. Display the crackers and breads in a basket, separate from the cheese. 
7. Take the cheese out of the fridge at least one hour prior to serving. This will allow the cheese to come to room temperature, showcasing its true flavor and texture.

How to Set Up a Cheese Platter [The Food Network]

What could be better than watching a movie while drinking a beer and chowing down on some tasty eats? If this is your idea of fun, head to Alamo Drafthouse Theatre for entertaining films, a great selection of draft and bottled beer and a menu of tasty food that’s way above what your average movie theatre concessions provides.

Settle in with a sizzling hot Grilled Eggplant & Jalapeno Pizza, a Royale with Cheese Burger, Tofu Wrap, or a Caesar Salad with spiced pumpkin seeds. Show up for their Master Pancake Theater and watch a movie while one of Austin’s comedians supplies edgy commentary. First-run and golden oldies are shown at this spot. See the Alamo Drafthouse website for schedules and showing times.

Alamo Drafthouse Theatre
320 E 6th Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 476-1320
http://drafthouse.com/austin
http://www.yelp.com/biz/alamo-drafthouse-cinema-austin-6

Public Domain/Openclipart.org