Cooking

Five Kitchen Tips to Make Life Easier

Don't let the stress of cooking keep you out of the kitchen! Here are five hacks to help you cook with ease.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it can also be a source of stress for some. Fortunately, there are plenty of clever hacks that can simplify your cooking and streamline your kitchen experience. Here are five kitchen tips that will make your life easier:

Know Your Recipe

Before cooking a recipe, read it all the way through. Not only will this prevent any in-the-moment surprises, but it will also reinforce the process before jumping into it. Reading it through in its entirety allows you to gather all the ingredients and equipment needed, which will help consolidate your cooking time.

Prep Vegetables

Keep veggies from getting limp, unenticing, and eventually spoiled in the fridge. Wash, dry, and chop vegetables that will be used throughout the week to save time later. For example, wash and chop kale, cut celery and carrots into sticks, and cut whole broccoli or cauliflower into florets. Hearty vegetables are best for preparing in advance, while more delicate items like fruits, mushrooms, and avocados are best prepared when needed.

Cutting Board Safety

To prevent cutting boards from sliding around, place a slightly damp kitchen or paper towel flat under the cutting board. This safety precaution will keep things secure while you chop, and makes for a convenient wipe when it’s time to clean up.

Eggshell Removal

When a piece of eggshell accidentally ends up in your bowl or pan, the best way to scoop it out is by using a larger piece of the eggshell. This works much better than the slippery attempt of a spoon or finger.

Get Organized

Create an efficient kitchen by keeping the most used items within easy reach, and the least used items less accessible. This could look like saving counter space for your everyday appliances, storing frequently used spices front and center, and keeping favorite condiments in the door of the refrigerator for easy access. This will not only save time but will also keep less frequently used items out of the way.

Incorporating these tips into your kitchen routine can transform your cooking and meal prep experience, and help you navigate your kitchen with ease and efficiency.