Whether you’re a complete novice in the kitchen or just looking to up your cooking game, learning some clever kitchen hacks can make a world of difference. We reached out to expert chefs for their top tips and tricks that can help beginners navigate the kitchen with ease and confidence. Here are some of their best suggestions:
1. Keep your knives sharp: A sharp knife is essential for safe and efficient cooking. Chef Thomas Keller recommends investing in a good knife sharpener and honing your knives regularly to maintain their sharpness.
2. Use a damp paper towel to stabilize cutting boards: To prevent your cutting board from slipping while you’re chopping vegetables or other ingredients, place a damp paper towel underneath it for added stability. Chef Gordon Ramsay swears by this simple trick.
3. Double up on kitchen towels: Chef Alice Waters suggests placing a damp kitchen towel underneath your cutting board to prevent it from sliding around, and using a dry towel to wipe your hands and utensils as you cook. This will help keep your work area clean and organized.
4. Use a spoon to peel ginger: Instead of struggling with a vegetable peeler or knife, use a spoon to peel ginger. Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using the edge of a spoon to easily remove the thin, papery skin from the ginger without wasting any of the flesh.
5. Freeze leftover herbs in ice cube trays: If you have leftover herbs that you don’t want to go to waste, chop them up and place them in an ice cube tray with some olive oil. Chef Ina Garten suggests freezing the herbs in olive oil so you can easily add a burst of flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes.
6. Use a corkscrew to remove avocado pits: Avocados are delicious but their pits can be tricky to remove. Chef Martha Stewart recommends using a corkscrew to easily twist the pit out of the avocado without risking injury.
7. Season your food as you cook: Don’t wait until the end of cooking to season your food. Chef Julia Child advises seasoning your dishes throughout the cooking process to build layers of flavor and ensure that your food tastes delicious.
8. Preheat your pans before cooking: To prevent food from sticking to your pans, make sure to preheat them before adding any ingredients. Chef Emeril Lagasse recommends heating your pans over medium heat for a few minutes before cooking to ensure that your food cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
These kitchen hacks from expert chefs are sure to help beginners feel more confident and comfortable in the kitchen. By incorporating these tips and tricks into your cooking routine, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious meals with ease and efficiency.
