How much time do you spend in the kitchen during the day?You don't have much time to prepare meals when you work, take care of kids, or study.Saving time in the kitchen is a priority for the person who is determined to fit in making healthy homemade meals with a busy schedule.
Step 1: Be prepared.
It will make tasks and time more organized if you prepare in advance.Much of this article is about good advance preparation that will ensure you have what you need in front of you and you're not left wondering where the ingredients to cook it are.It's a good idea to keep a well-stocked fridge and pantry.Keep a shopping list so you know what to buy when you go shopping.It is always quicker to have ingredients available instead of having to change recipes or head to the store.Kitchen tools and equipment are of the highest quality.While they may cost more initially, they work better and therefore speed up your cooking time.Ensuring that food is used up while fresh is one way to organize your food storage.If you organize your pantry and fridge to allow for easy and fast food finding, you will be able to cook more quickly.
Step 2: Menu planners or calendars can be used to plan out meals.
The worst way to start making a meal is standing in front of an open pantry wondering what to make.You can use a calendar to keep track of what each person in the family likes, and even set aside some days for meals outside of the kitchen.When cooking for one, follow whatever works best for you, but don't skimp on healthy choices.How to plan a meal using only what's in your pantry is one of the ways to cook just for yourself.
Step 3: You can use the internet.
When you open the pantry door and wonder what to cook, choose several ingredients and type them into your search engine of choice along with the word "recipe"You will be able to quickly choose a recipe that you like and can get on with preparing it.It takes a lot less time to do this than it does to hunt for recipes in a cookbook.
Step 4: Prepare by taking out supplies.
Place pots, pans, measuring utensils, different bowl sizes, spice containers, and appliances that are tucked away on the countertops before you go to bed or leave the house in the morning.When you're ready to start, everything is set for you and this will cut the preparation time and give you more motivation to cook.The table should be set in advance.Older kids can help you place each person.Encourage kids to set the table from a young age because it's never too early to teach them how to do that.
Step 5: Vegetables can be cut in batches and stored in containers.
Tupperware or similar containers can be used to store pre-cut ingredients, which will save you time in the kitchen.With the ingredients already prepared, it can be a motivation to eat healthier for breakfast and lunch, such as quick fix salads or vegetable omelets.Prepare tedious, non-cutting preparations elsewhere.You can snap beans at the same time when you're in front of a computer.
Step 6: In advance.
Measure out the ingredients in snack or sandwich plastic bags to make seasonings for your favorite recipe.Put them away for future use.
Step 7: Slow cooker recipes can be used to save time.
Pot roast is excellent for beef stew.Add vegetable chunks, such as onions, carrots, and potatoes, with a sauce or cooking wine.Leave it to the slow cooker to cook the rest.You can read how to use a slow cooker.
Step 8: Prepare meals in batches.
There are advanced and divided recipes for casseroles and pies.For that night, cook one portion and freeze the rest.For more ideas, read How to do once a month cooking and how to start a freezer group.
Step 9: You should clean as you go.
Put a mixture of dish soap and hot water in the sink.Place the cutting boards upright to dry after they have been washed.It's a good idea to wash bowls, knives, and measuring utensils that won't be used again.Use this time to clean or put away dishes in the dishwasher while the meal is being cooked.The only things you need to worry about at the end of the meal are the dishes.