Some people find cooking enjoyable and relaxing, while others view it as a horrendous chore. If you fall into the latter category, these tips may help. Just a few small tweaks to your routine may revolutionize how you feel when you’re at work in the kitchen.
1. Using dull knives. Every kitchen needs a good, sharp chef’s knife (a big non-serrated knife). Trying to chop or slice with a dull knife makes food prep more frustrating and less efficient, and you’re more likely to cut yourself. You can buy an easy-to-use knife sharpener like this one for less than $10.
2. Not preheating your pan. Whether you’re scrambling eggs, browning meat for chili, or sautéing vegetables, your pan needs a couple minutes on the burner before you add oil or food to it. This initial heat helps improve the texture and flavor of whatever you’re cooking, so you won’t get that grey-looking meat or those mushy vegetables.
3. Not adding salt & acid. Ever made something that tastes bland, boring, or not that good? It’s probably lacking salt or acid – both of which add flavor and perk up any dish, hot or cold. Next time you find yourself in this situation, add a little salt and/or some citrus juice or vinegar and you’ll likely see the flavor improve.
4. Using too small a cutting board. Trying to chop a whole head of lettuce on a tiny cutting board that’s slipping around as you cut will make assembling a simple salad feel like building a house. Unless you’re slicing something very small (like an apple) or spreading peanut butter on bread, use a large cutting board that can fit all your ingredients. Place a towel underneath to prevent slipping.
5. Working in a messy space. Cooking in a clean, tidy kitchen can transform your feelings about food prep from chaotic chore into peaceful routine. Instead of letting ingredients and dirty dishes overwhelm your space, tidy as you go so that you always have ample counter, stove, and sink space. Not only will this allow you to move more quickly but you’ll feel less stressed out as you cook.
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