When you think about it, one of the most often used areas in the kitchen is the refrigerator. So, it makes sense to organize this space just like you would your pantry and cupboards. You can even go further than that; think about your refrigerator like your clothes closet and use the same organizing techniques you would for scarves, jewelry, gloves, or other small items. Let’s take a look at the basic arrangement and then move into some clever ways to best utilize the space you have. Continue reading
It is truly amazing the things we throw away every day. Many of these simple items we think of as garbage can be used in clever ways to store all sorts of things. And the best part is you don’t have to spend a dime! Here are a few of my favorite ideas for turning trash into useful containers for your kitchen organizing projects. Continue reading
Although you can use your slow cooker any time of year, many people associate them with the warm, rich foods of autumn and winter. It’s true that slow cookers are ideal for meaty stews and other hearty winter dishes. They are also economical.
Regardless of what style or size of slow cooker you have, there are other benefits to using a slow cooker as well. Here are some to consider.
1 – The Busy Woman’s Best Friend
The slow cooker can be a busy woman’s best friend, especially if you are going to be gone all day. While quick-cooking foods can be convenient too, a slow cooker allows you to do something else all day while dinner cooks. There are some breakfast foods you can allow to cook all night, too, so that you can awake to a hot breakfast or have a meal ready to take to a morning or afternoon potluck. Continue reading
Slow cookers are an absolute wonderful way to have food “cook itself.” If you’re not familiar with using one, knowing some tips and tricks ahead of time can help reduce your learning curve. Even if you do use your slow cooker frequently, it’s nice to expand your recipe repertoire and learn something new about this time honored stand-by of busy cooks.
Here are some tips and tricks for crock pot cooking success:
1 – Keep the Lid On!
When you’re using your slow cooker, leave the lid on unless the recipe directs you not to. If you take the lid off during cooking, it can take up to 25 minutes for the food to resume its proper cooking temperature, and that extends your cooking time. It’s rare that a dish needs to be stirred. That’s why crock pots are so loved and useful, no standing over a hot pot stirring to keep foods from sticking. Continue reading
