15 Cool Kitchen Hacks That Will Make You Cook (And Feel) Like a Pro

Cooking is an art and a science, and mastering it takes a mix of practice, curiosity, and a few expert tricks. Seasoned chefs and beginners can use these cooking tips to improve their skills, save time, and create dishes everyone loves.

Bookmark these 15 essential cooking tips to make your time in the kitchen smoother, more efficient, and more delicious.

1. A Falling Knife Has No Handle

Safety comes first in the kitchen; this adage is a golden rule. If you drop a knife, resist the urge to catch it—it’s a reflex, but it’s not worth the risk. Let it fall to the ground and pick it up safely afterward. A small moment of caution can prevent a big accident.

2. Sample as You Cook

The best chefs don’t just follow recipes; they taste along the way. Sampling as you cook ensures your dish is balanced, flavorful, and on track to perfection. Adjust seasoning, sweetness, or acidity as needed while there’s still time to make changes. This habit will improve your intuition for flavor combinations and help you avoid kitchen disasters.

3. For Better Pasta, Use the Pasta Water

Don’t pour all your pasta water down the drain—it’s liquid gold! The starchy water helps thicken and bind sauces, giving them a luxurious, restaurant-quality texture. Add a ladleful to your sauce as you mix it with the pasta to create a silky finish. Bonus: it’s a great way to cut down on food waste.

4. Don’t Forget the Acid

Acidity is often the missing piece in a dish that feels flat or boring. A squeeze of citrus or a splash of vinegar can brighten up flavors and make your dish pop. Add it gradually at the end of cooking and taste as you go. You’ll be amazed at how it transforms everything from soups to salads.

5. Prep Before You Start Cooking

Prepping beforehand is known as “mise en place” in culinary terms. Chop your veggies, measure your spices, and gather all ingredients before turning on the stove. This simple step minimizes chaos and ensures you won’t burn anything while scrambling to find an ingredient. It also keeps you organized and efficient.

6. Put Everything in Its Place

A clutter-free workspace sets the stage for stress-free cooking. Store your most-used utensils, spices, and cookware within easy reach. Use storage containers and labels to keep your pantry organized. A little effort in setup makes cooking faster and more enjoyable.

7. Clean as You Go

A messy kitchen can be overwhelming, especially when you’re done cooking. Cleaning as you go helps you stay ahead of the chaos and makes the cleanup process less daunting. Wipe counters, rinse utensils, and load the dishwasher as you work. You’ll thank yourself when you sit down to enjoy your meal without a mountain of dishes waiting.

8. Small Batch Browning

When browning meat, overcrowding the pan is a big no-no. Too much meat causes it to release water and steam, preventing a proper sear. Instead, work in small batches to develop rich, caramelized flavors. This step adds depth and complexity to dishes like stews and stir-fries.

9. Make Your Own Cookbook

Create a personal cookbook tailored to your tastes and needs. Use a notebook or digital app to jot down recipes you make often, along with tweaks and notes. As you grow more confident, add new recipes to expand your repertoire. This habit keeps you inspired and prevents you from flipping through rarely used cookbooks.

10. The Garlic Rule

Garlic’s flavor depends on when you add it during cooking. Add it early for a mellow, subtle flavor that blends into the dish. Add it later or near the end for a bold, punchy taste that stands out. Understanding this simple rule can make a huge difference in your cooking.

11. Let It Rest

When a recipe calls for resting time, don’t skip it! Whether it’s meat, bread dough, or a cake, resting allows flavors to meld, juices to redistribute, or textures to set. Rushing this step can lead to disappointing results. Be patient—it’s worth it.

12. Invest in a Rice Cooker

A good rice cooker is a kitchen MVP. It’s foolproof, saves time, and can even double as a steamer or slow cooker. Perfectly cooked rice is the foundation of many great meals, and with a rice cooker, you’ll nail it every time. It’s an investment that pays off with every fluffy grain.

13. Mind the Temperature

Cooking at the right temperature is crucial for success. High heat can burn food or dry it out, while medium heat gives you more control. Use low heat for delicate sauces or braises to develop flavors without scorching. Always adjust the flame to suit what you’re making—your food will thank you.

14. Learn to Deglaze

Deglazing unlocks the magic stuck to the bottom of your pan after browning meats or veggies. Pour a splash of wine, broth, or even water into the hot pan and scrape up those flavorful bits. This technique creates the base for incredible sauces and gravies.

15. Season Carefully

Seasoning is an art, and it’s always easier to add than to subtract. Start small, taste, and adjust gradually to avoid oversalting or overspicing. Pay attention to balancing sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavors. With practice, you’ll learn how to season like a pro.

 

20 Food to Stockpile (For the Best Chance of Survival)

A well-stocked pantry can provide peace of mind and empower you to handle any situation. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic instability, or simply unexpected guests, having a stash of versatile essential foods can make all the difference. Here’s a list of 20 of the best foods to stockpile, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes your way. 20 Food to Stockpile (For the Best Chance of Survival)  

12 Foods To NEVER Eat After They Expire (Throw Them Away Immediately)

The “Sell by” date on food packaging tells how long the food can stay on shelves, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that’s when it expires. On the other hand, the “Best by” or “Use by” date is something to really pay attention to.

Some foods can be fine well past that date, but others don’t, and consuming them can lead to food poisoning, a trip to the hospital, or worse. Following are some foods you should never consume after they expire.

12 Foods To NEVER Eat After They Expire (Throw Them Away Immediately)