How to Organise Your Kitchen for a Healthier, Happier Life
Organising your kitchen may seem like a daunting task, but believe me, it's a total game changer! You might find yourself halfway through thinking, "Why did I start this?" but trust me—the end result is absolutely worth it. I recently revamped my own kitchen, and now it’s a joy to be in there. Let’s dive into some steps and tips to help you create a functional, organised space that supports your healthy lifestyle.
Start with Your Equipment and Food Cupboards
Begin by tackling your equipment cupboards. Get rid of any gadgets you don’t use and keep the essentials within easy reach. Once that’s done, move on to your food cupboards. Clear out expired products hiding at the back of your shelves. Trust me, we all have them!
Dedicate an entire shelf to your “Essential Products” list—these are items you’ll use often, so make sure they’re easily accessible. This simple step will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Organise Your Fridge and Freezer
Your fridge and freezer are your best friends when it comes to meal prep. Designate a specific space in each for prepped food. For example, you could keep two days' worth of lunches ready to grab-and-go in the fridge. Reserve a whole drawer in your freezer for pre-prepared dinners. Many of the recipes in the HYH Meal Plan are designed for batch cooking, so you can freeze portions for those busy nights when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.
Invest in some foil-lidded containers or freezer-proof storage options. You can find these in most supermarkets or online. Don’t forget to label each container with the date you made and froze it. As a rule of thumb, cooked beef, lamb, and pork dishes will last 2-3 months, while chicken and turkey dishes should be used within 4-6 months.
Make the Most of Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs add incredible flavour to dishes, but they often go to waste. Here’s a tip: if you have leftovers, freeze them. We use a lot of herbs like coriander and parsley in our recipes, but sometimes you might have extras. Just pop them in the freezer to avoid waste. The same goes for lemons and limes—freeze the juice in ice cube trays, and grate the zest for future use. Even chilies can be frozen whole or chopped, ready to grate into dishes as needed.
Safe Slicing and Chopping
This is a simple but essential tip: place a damp tea towel or a folded piece of kitchen roll under your chopping board to prevent it from slipping around. It’s a much safer way to chop, especially when using sharp knives.
Don’t Ditch Those Glass Jars
Before you throw out that empty jar of jam or pickles, consider reusing it. Glass jars are perfect for storing nuts, seeds, and even avocado halves. They’re eco-friendly and keep your pantry organised.
Read the Full Recipe Before You Start
This might seem obvious, but always read the entire recipe before you start cooking. I’ve learned this the hard way. There’s nothing worse than diving in, only to realise halfway through that you’ve missed a crucial step.
Embrace “Mise en Place”
“Mise en place” is a French term meaning “everything in its place.” It’s all about preparing your ingredients before you start cooking. Chop, measure, and set everything out in advance. This not only makes cooking more enjoyable but also helps prevent mistakes.
Cook at the Right Temperature
Cooking at the correct temperature is key to perfect results. For example, pancakes should be cooked on low to medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning. Every oven varies, so consider investing in an oven thermometer to check the actual temperature.
Season to Your Taste
Salt is essential for a healthy body, and seasoning is key to delicious food. Taste your dish as you cook, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Your palate is unique, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.
Keep Eggs Out of the Fridge
This might surprise you, but eggs don’t need to be refrigerated. They cook better at room temperature, making your poached eggs and omelettes even more delicious.
Get the Family Involved
Cooking together can be a wonderful bonding experience. Get your family involved in meal prep and cooking. Not only will you enjoy the benefits of healthy eating, but you’ll also strengthen your connections with each other. In my household, cooking has become a daily ritual, and it’s brought us closer together.
Organising your kitchen is more than just tidying up; it's about setting yourself up for success. With a little effort and planning, you’ll find cooking healthier meals much easier and more enjoyable. So roll up your sleeves, get started, and enjoy the transformation!