Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook just starting out, everyone can benefit from a few clever kitchen hacks to make their time in the kitchen more efficient and enjoyable. From speeding up the cooking process to finding creative solutions to common problems, these tips and tricks can help you become a wizard in the kitchen. Here are 10 clever kitchen hacks every home cook should know:
1. Use an ice cream scoop for perfect cookie dough portions: Instead of using a spoon to scoop out cookie dough, try using an ice cream scoop instead. This will ensure that each cookie is the same size and shape, resulting in even baking.
2. Keep herbs fresh for longer: To keep herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil fresh for longer, store them in a glass of water in the fridge. This will keep them hydrated and prevent them from wilting.
3. Use a rubber band to keep cutting boards in place: To prevent your cutting board from sliding around while you chop, place a rubber band around each end of the board. This will help keep it in place on your countertop.
4. Freeze leftover wine in ice cube trays: If you have leftover wine that you don’t want to waste, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze it. You can use these wine cubes in sauces, stews, or soups for added flavor.
5. Use a muffin tin for perfect poached eggs: Instead of using a pot of water to poach eggs, try using a muffin tin instead. Crack an egg into each cup and bake in the oven for perfectly poached eggs every time.
6. Sharpen knives with a ceramic mug: If your knives are dull and in need of a quick sharpening, try running the blade along the bottom of a ceramic mug. This will help to sharpen the blade and make cutting easier.
7. Use a potato peeler to grate cheese: If you don’t have a grater on hand, try using a potato peeler to grate cheese instead. This method works particularly well for hard cheeses like Parmesan.
8. Cook bacon in the oven: Instead of frying bacon on the stovetop, try baking it in the oven. This method is less messy and allows the bacon to cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
9. Freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays: If you have leftover coffee that you don’t want to throw out, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze it. You can use these coffee cubes in iced coffee or smoothies for a caffeine boost.
10. Use a spoon to peel ginger: Instead of using a peeler or knife to peel ginger, try using a spoon instead. The edge of a spoon can easily remove the skin from ginger without wasting any of the flesh.
With these clever kitchen hacks in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any cooking challenge that comes your way. So go ahead and give them a try – your time in the kitchen will never be the same!