Cooking can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it can also be time-consuming and frustrating, especially when you’re short on time or working with limited resources. However, there are many cooking hacks that can make your life in the kitchen easier and more efficient. Here are some of the best cooking hacks that will save you time, money, and effort.
- Freeze your herbs
Fresh herbs are a great way to add flavor to your dishes, but they can go bad quickly. To prevent them from spoiling, freeze them in ice cube trays with a little bit of water or oil. This way, you can have fresh herbs on hand all year round.
- Keep your knives sharp
Sharp knives make chopping and slicing easier and safer. To keep your knives sharp, use a honing rod or a whetstone regularly. You can also use a coffee mug to sharpen your knife by running the blade along the bottom of the mug at a 20-degree angle.
- Use your microwave for more than just reheating food
Your microwave can be a powerful tool in the kitchen. Use it to cook vegetables, melt butter or chocolate, or even make crispy bacon. Wrap bacon in a paper towel and microwave it for a minute per slice to get crispy, delicious bacon in no time.
- Use a slow cooker
Slow cookers are a fantastic way to cook meals without having to spend hours in the kitchen. Simply prepare your ingredients, put them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work. You can even cook overnight for a hot breakfast in the morning.
- Invest in a good set of measuring cups and spoons
Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurate cooking and baking. Invest in a good set that includes a variety of sizes to ensure that you can measure accurately for any recipe.
- Use parchment paper
Parchment paper is a versatile tool that can be used for everything from baking to cooking. It prevents food from sticking to pans, makes cleanup a breeze, and can even be used to create a makeshift piping bag.
- Use a kitchen scale
A kitchen scale is another essential tool for accurate cooking and baking. It’s particularly useful for recipes that require precise measurements, such as baking recipes. Invest in a digital scale for the most accurate measurements.
- Use an ice cream scoop for more than just ice cream
An ice cream scoop is a great tool for portioning cookie dough, meatballs, or even mashed potatoes. It ensures that each portion is the same size, which helps with even cooking.
In conclusion, these cooking hacks can help make your life in the kitchen easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable. Try them out and see how they can transform your cooking experience.