Master Culinary Shortcuts + Ingredient Substitutions

Culinary Shortcuts

When you're short on time but still want to create delicious dishes, knowing a few culinary shortcuts can be a game-changer. Here are some handy tips to help you save time in the kitchen:

• Prep Ahead: Spend some time on the weekends prepping ingredients like chopping vegetables or marinating meats, so they're ready to go during the week.
• One-Pot Meals: Opt for one-pot meals that require minimal cleanup but still pack a flavor punch. Think soups, stews, and casseroles.
• Use a Slow Cooker: Let your slow cooker do the work for you. Throw in your ingredients in the morning, and come home to a delicious meal in the evening.
• Invest in Frozen Produce: Frozen fruits and vegetables are convenient, retain their nutrients, and can be a time-saver when fresh produce is not available.

Ingredient Substitutions

Running out of a key ingredient can be frustrating, but knowing simple substitutions can help you keep cooking without a trip to the store. Here are some common ingredient substitutions:

• Buttermilk Substitute: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to substitute for buttermilk in recipes.
• Egg Substitute: For baking, you can use 1/4 cup of applesauce or a mashed banana to replace one egg in most recipes.
• Herb Substitutions: If you're out of a specific herb, you can often use a similar herb in its place. For example, swap parsley for cilantro or thyme for rosemary.
• Oil Substitute: In recipes that call for oil, you can often use applesauce or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

By incorporating these culinary shortcuts and ingredient substitutions into your cooking routine, you can save time, reduce waste, and still create delicious meals that your family will love.