50 Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks to Make Cooking Easier After a Long Day
10. Easy Bacon
Want that perfect crunchy bacon texture but looking for an easier way to make it? Here’s a clever trick: instead of using a traditional pan, try using a waffle or panini maker!
This method cooks the bacon evenly and gives it that nice crispiness you crave, all while freeing up your stovetop for other delicious dishes. It’s a real time-saver and can make breakfast prep so much smoother. Plus, it’s a fun twist on cooking bacon that might just become your new favorite method. So next time you’re making bacon, give the waffle maker a try—you’ll love the results!
11. Check Egg Freshness Easily
Worried about whether your eggs are still fresh and safe to eat? No need to stress! You can easily check their freshness with a simple water test. Just fill a glass with water and gently place the egg in it.
If the egg sinks and lays flat on the bottom, it’s fresh. If it stands upright on the bottom, it’s still okay to eat but not as fresh. And if it floats to the top, it’s best to toss it out. This quick test can save you from any kitchen mishaps and give you peace of mind when cooking. So next time you’re unsure about your eggs, just grab a glass of water and give it a try!
12. How To Properly Peel A Mandarin Orange
You might think you know how to peel a mandarin orange, but can you be 100% sure? It’s always good to double-check! Here’s a quick guide that might just impress you.
Start by gently rolling the mandarin on the counter to loosen the skin. Then, make a small cut at the top to create a starting point. From there, you can easily peel the skin off in sections. This method not only makes it easier but also keeps the fruit intact and juicy.
Give it a try next time you’re enjoying a mandarin! You might discover a new, efficient way to enjoy this tasty fruit. Who knew peeling could be so satisfying?
14. Freeze Leftover Sauce
If you have leftover sauce after a meal, don’t let it go to waste! You can simply freeze it and save it for later. This way, you can easily pull it out whenever you need it, making meal prep a breeze and saving you from having to make it from scratch again.
Plus, freezing your leftover sauce is a great way to cut down on food waste. It’s a win-win! Just pour the sauce into an airtight container or freezer bag, label it with the date, and pop it in the freezer. Next time you’re cooking, you’ll have a delicious sauce ready to go, making mealtime a little easier and more enjoyable!
14. Peel Garlic Easily
If you’re looking for an easy way to peel garlic, here’s a simple trick! Start by separating the individual cloves from the bulb. Then, take the handle of a knife or a spoon and give each clove a gentle tap.
This will loosen the skin, making it super easy to peel off. It’s a quick method that saves you time and hassle, especially if you’re working with a lot of garlic. So next time you’re cooking with garlic, give this technique a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortless it is!
15. Easy Dumplings
Want to make your own bamboo steamer at home? It’s easier than you might think! You can actually use an aluminum pie plate to create a makeshift steamer.
Here’s how to do it: take the pie plate and poke a few holes in the bottom to allow steam to escape. Then, set it over a pot of simmering water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the plate. You can place your food on top, cover it with a lid or another plate, and let the steam do its magic!
This simple method is perfect for steaming veggies, dumplings, or fish, and it saves you the hassle of buying a special steamer. So next time you’re in the mood for steamed dishes, give this DIY steamer a try!
16. Easily Peel Eggs
Want an easy way to peel hard-boiled eggs? Here’s a fun trick! After boiling your eggs, place them in a container with a lid. Then, give the container a good shake. You’ll notice that the shells crack and break apart, making them super easy to remove!
This method not only speeds up the peeling process but also helps keep the eggs intact. It’s a great way to save time, especially if you’re preparing a batch for a salad or snack. So next time you hard boil some eggs, try this shaking technique—you might be pleasantly surprised at how well it works!
17. Cookie Cutters Are So Versatile
Who said cookie cutters are only for cookies? They can actually be used for so much more! You can use them to add fun shapes to cakes, too. Just place the cookie cutter on top of your cake and fill it with sprinkles or powdered sugar to create decorative patterns.
This is a fantastic way to elevate your cake presentation without much effort. Whether you want to create a festive look for a celebration or just make a regular day feel special, using cookie cutters can add a playful touch. So next time you’re baking, don’t forget to think outside the cookie cutter box!
18. Lace For Decoration
Did you know that lace can be a creative alternative to traditional cookie cutters? It’s true! Simply lay a piece of lace over the surface of your cake and dust it with powdered sugar. When you carefully lift off the lace, you’ll reveal a beautiful, intricate pattern on your cake.
This technique adds a touch of elegance and can really impress your guests. It’s a fun and easy way to elevate your cake decorating game without needing special tools. So next time you’re looking to make your cake extra special, try this lace trick—you’ll love the stunning results!
