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Did the Holiday season bring you a new kitchen helper? Or, does your kitchen itself need a little help (such as a reno or refresh)? Sharing a few tips if your goals for 2020 include incorporating new things into your busy lifestyle.

When you walk into your kitchen, does a new addition greet you? Statistics coming in from elves at the North Pole point to an increase in household happiness after homeowners are unwrapping holiday gifts of small appliances. If your kitchen counter now includes a shiny gadget to make day-to-day life easier, check out these helpful hints -

Photo by Katherine Chase on Unsplash

Electric pressure cooker

• Do a little homework

Honestly, taking time to sit down and read a product owner’s manual might not be your first choice for spending “me time”. However, when learning how to use this high pressure cooking tool, the cards are in your favor if you give the product paperwork a good review. Then, feel free to reach out via social media to join the appliance loving community. Or, browse YouTube videos for further answers to questions about this multi-use device.

• Come up with a game plan

As cool as the “set it and forget it” feature may be, there is a level of preparation you’ll still need to do. Think about the ingredients you are adding and consider how you can help make each recipe item cook more efficiently. For example, with large potatoes, try cutting them up into small pieces for the steam to fully work its magic.

• Ensure there is enough liquid

For most recipes, you’ll need at least one cup of water to make sure the unit will be as steamy as a soap opera love scene. Although, don’t forget that some ingredients (such as beans or rice) will expand as they cook. Make note of the fill line when adding in the required amount of liquid. 

Image Source: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/what-is-an-air-fryer/

Air Fryer

• Shake it Up

Instead of a brimming basket full, think about preparing your food in several small batches. You’ll note better results when the food has ample wiggle room. Try interrupting the appliance a couple of times while it is cooking, just to give the basket a shake. Shaking the basket will lead to more of an even sizzle.

• Be Careful with Oil

The joy of cooking with this appliance is fixing fried foods in half the time with half the calories. You’ll learn as you go that you might only need a teaspoon or a tablespoon of oil to achieve the crispy texture you’re craving. Simply be careful when coating the basket for non-stick use. If the bottom of the unit collects too much oil, it could fill the air with smoke, unleash the terror of your shrill smoke alarm and give your kitchen the aroma of a greasy spoon diner.

• Keep it Clean

Check your product manual for tips on how to keep your new appliance as clean as a whistle.  Removing residue after each use can prevent an unwelcome burning scent. Lining the lower portion with aluminum foil may also help with tidying up. Rather than placing the removable pieces in the dishwasher, hand washing the parts might extend the lifespan of this handy kitchen tool. 

Photo: Michael Hession

Food Processor

• Pick a Blade, Any Blade

Most processors come with a few blades to choose from. Take a little time to learn which blade does what and how to easily interchange them. You’ll be glad you did when you are pressed for time and call on your new appliance to save the day.

• Take a Break

Have stalks of celery? Roughly chop, add to the canister unit and you’ll soon have finely diced pieces for a recipe. Need breadcrumbs? Tear up several slices into the processor bowl and voila! You’ll have a ticket to diced bread town. By breaking down large items into choppable chunks you notice better results. When making your machine go the extra mile, such as grinding nuts into butter or powering dates into dough, plan for breaks in your processing time. This will give the appliance a breather and prevent it from overheating.  

• Cleaning those Hard-to-Reach Areas

There are nooks. There are crannies. Your device will need a detail clean after each use. Consider investing in a small brush set for ease of tidying up. Your local department store may offer a water bottle cleaning kit that has a set of unique brush heads. Finding helpful tools to make clean up a breeze will lead to more satisfaction with your new countertop buddy.

Photo by Annie Gray on Unsplash

New Year, New Goals

Perhaps your kitchen has more than just a new time-saving tool to bring a sense of ease? Are you adding upgrades to the heart of your home? Or, do you have improvement plans for your residence on your list of resolutions for 2020? According to the 2019 Remodeling Impact Report, positive changes around the house may add a pleasing level of happiness for homeowners. As the report states, “74% of owners have a greater desire to be in their home” after reaching the finish line of their renovation goals. If you’ve been thinking of what edits you could make, the fresh start of the new year may be an ideal time to make your remodeling dreams a reality. For example - 

• Consider upgrades in your busy kitchen

• Think about renovating one or more of your bathrooms

• How do you feel about changing out your flooring?

As 2020 begins, consider a “seize the day” line of thinking. Similar to the convenience of a new small appliance from Santa Claus, think of what changes you could make to increase your quality of life. Why wait until resale for a household facelift? Take a moment now to review the renovation ideas that you could initiate in the months ahead.

Sources:

www.livingwellspendingless.com https://www.myforkinglife.com/10-air-fryer-tips-every-air-fryer-owner-should-know/ https://pinchofyum.com/twelve-magical-ways-to-use-a-food-processor https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-clean-a-food-processor-lid-blade-and-handle-cleaning-lessons-from-the-kitchn-203298