Make Your Own Croutons

I was delightfully surprised when I discovered how easily croutons can be made yourself. They're delicious, pricey, and salty already made. When you make them yourself, you can personalize the taste to your preference. I was inspired by the flavors of garlic. But you can do whatever you'd like. I cube bread especially something like sourdough or something hard. I coat them in extra-virgin olive oil (which if kept in minced garlic overnight would give it an amazing flavor!), garlic powder, parsley, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, and a little paprika. I pan-fried it until it was thoroughly dried and appeared toasty and slightly darkened. A yummy nummy treat!

Diversify Your Pantry Items

Pantry items should be staples that can easily be incorporated into basic recipes. Buy pantry staples that come in cans and have to be frozen. This way if there's a blackout, you can access food from your cupboard, rather than your freezer. However, don't limit your pantry staples to canned products. Freezers work more efficiently when it's completely full, so you save money on your electric bill, too. Plus, if you over clutter your cupboards with canned products, it can create a safety hazard.

Peeling a Ginger

I was shocked to hear and see a spoon being used to peel the skin of ginger. The first time I tried it, it was a miserable failure. But the second time, I was able to use it with ease. Try it. If it works well for you, your knives won't dull. And if you're lazy like me, you won't waste as much ginger by cutting chunks off along with the skin. Use it as though you're scooping the ginger out and bring the spoon towards you. It's surprisingly effortless. Plus, it's a great and safe way to involve children in the kitchen without any risks.

The Best Way to Wash Berries

Chill berries before washing them, as cold berries are less likely to bruise or bleed. And don't wash them until the last minute. Berries last longer this way, as they have a high moisture content. The berries will soak up the water and rot quicker.