The feeling of cooking at home is quite rewarding, and having a few simple hacks down your sleeve can make the whole process easier, quicker, and more enjoyable.
If does not matter if you are a cook or an advanced chef, these cooking hacks will make you a master chef!
A sharp knife makes a job of cutting and chopping easier and much safer. Dull knives require more force and are more likely to slip, which raises the chance of accidents. Honing and sharpening your knives regularly may enhance your efficiency and make food preparation more enjoyable.
Freeze mixture in the ice tray, then store cubes in a bag. Throw frozen herby cubes straight into food, adding flavor without having to make the preparation of sprigs each time you cook.
If you add a pinch at three or more critical points in the preparation and cooking process, this can bring out the best in your ingredients. Be cautious not to use too much.
If a recipe calls for softened butter, and you've forgotten to take it out of the refrigerator, cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for several minutes. Or, alternately, place it between two sheets of wax paper and give it a few whacks with a rolling pin to speed up the softening process.
By using wooden spoons. To prevent the pot from boiling over, lay a wooden spoon across the top of a pot. It will break the surface tension of the boiling liquid, hence remarkably decreasing the chances of a messy boil-over. It's one of those simple tricks which can save you from spills and cleaning up afterward.
Properly caramelized onions need to be slowly cooked in a little oil at medium-low heat; make sure to stir once in a while. This does take up to 20-30 minutes to execute. The slow cooking really gives time for all of those natural sugars in the onions to come out and develop a rich sweet flavor.
To prevent your cutting board from sliding/slipping, place a folded damp paper towel, or some type of non-slip mat under the board. This will stabilize the board and make your chopping safer and more efficient.
Perfectly cooked pasta involves the use of plenty of water and a generous amount of salt. It ensures that pasta is well cooked and well seasoned. Taste a piece a minute or two before the package suggests overcooking.
You can revive wilted veggies by dunking them in a bowl of ice water for a few minutes. This is helpful to recover the firmness of the veggies and make them crunchier. It's quite a handy trick to use before cooking or serving veggies.
Clean as you go to avoid a lot of work afterwards and to keep your kitchen organized. Wash utensils, wipe spills, clear countertops while you cook.
