Cooking can be enjoyable, but it often comes with a lot of prep work and cleanup. Here are 10 kitchen hacks to help you save time, reduce mess, and make your time in the kitchen more efficient and enjoyable.
1. Pre-Chop Vegetables and Freeze
Save time on meal prep by chopping onions, peppers, carrots, and other frequently used veggies in bulk. Freeze them in single-layer portions on a baking sheet, then transfer to resealable bags. This way, you can grab a handful whenever needed without worrying about them going bad.
2. Use a Garbage Bowl While You Prep
Instead of constantly walking to the trash can, keep a large bowl or container on the counter for food scraps and peels as you prep. Once you’re finished, empty the bowl in one go—reducing trips to the trash and minimizing countertop mess.
3. Line Baking Sheets with Parchment Paper or Foil
Save time on scrubbing by lining baking sheets with parchment paper or foil. After cooking, simply toss the liner and give your baking sheet a quick rinse—no more scrubbing off stubborn, baked-on bits.
4. Peel Garlic in Seconds with a Mason Jar
Garlic can be tricky to peel, but this hack makes it easy. Place garlic cloves in a mason jar, close the lid, and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. The skins should come right off, leaving you with perfectly peeled cloves.
5. Microwave Lemons or Limes for More Juice
If you’re struggling to get enough juice from citrus fruits, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will make them softer and easier to squeeze, helping you get every drop without the hassle.
6. Grate Cold Butter for Easier Mixing
Trying to cut cold butter into flour can be time-consuming. Instead, grate cold butter using a cheese grater for quicker, even distribution in doughs and pastries. This trick works especially well for pie crusts and biscuits.
7. Keep Your Cutting Board from Slipping
Slipping cutting boards can lead to spills and accidents. Place a damp paper towel or dishcloth under your board to keep it firmly in place while you chop, making your work safer and more efficient.
8. Use a Straw to Hull Strawberries
Save time hulling strawberries by using a plastic straw. Simply push the straw through the bottom of the strawberry, and it will pop out the stem and core in one go, leaving you with perfectly hulled berries.
9. Clean Blenders by Blending Soap and Water
After using your blender, pour in warm water and a few drops of dish soap, then blend for 30 seconds. Rinse with clean water, and you’re done—no need to reach in and scrub the blades.
10. Use an Ice Cube Tray for Herb Storage
If you have leftover fresh herbs, chop them up and freeze them in an ice cube tray with olive oil or broth. Once frozen, pop them out and store in a freezer bag. Use these herb cubes to add flavor to soups, sauces, and stews with minimal prep.
