Cooking in a small kitchen can seem tough at first. It seems like the more elaborate the meal, the more space you need to cook. However, when you think of how back in the day, your Grandma likely cooked her legendary meals in a tiny kitchen you understand it’s not the space that counts it’s how you use it.
There are ways to make sure that you can cook any type of meal that you want without the physical space being an issue. Planning, having the right tools, and a can-do attitude are all you need. In this article, we will go over a few tips to help you cook in a small space.
1 – Get organized
Keeping your small kitchen organized while cooking is key to making the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Having dedicated spaces for your cooking tools can make a huge difference. Installing a knife rack on the wall, for instance, is a clever way to store them safely and within easy reach. Make sure to keep like things together so find a spot for the knife sharpener there as well.
Try to organize the ingredients and tools you need for a recipe before you start cooking. This makes sure everything is close at hand, reducing the need to rummage through cabinets or drawers while your dish is cooking.
Take short breaks during your cooking to wash dishes, clear up utensils, or wipe down surfaces. This habit prevents clutter from building up and ensures you have enough space to work comfortably.
Importance of Kitchen Design
A well-designed kitchen can significantly enhance cooking efficiency and speed. Firstly, an ergonomic layout, like the classic “kitchen triangle,” positions the stove, sink, and refrigerator strategically to minimize unnecessary movement. This layout ensures easy access to the stove, prep area, and cleaning station, facilitating a smooth workflow.
Well thought of counter space is crucial for efficient meal preparation. Having enough room to chop, mix, and organize ingredients without clutter reduces preparation time and stress. Also, incorporating sufficient storage, such as deep drawers for pots and pull-out cabinets for spices, keeps essentials within reach and well-organized. This organization minimizes the time spent searching for tools and ingredients.
Quality appliances also contribute to faster cooking. For example, a powerful stove or an induction cooktop heats food more quickly and evenly. Advanced ovens with preset programs can save time and ensure consistent cooking results. Additionally, features such as double sink or a dishwasher with quick cycles can speed up clean-up time.
Good lighting is another important aspect. Bright, focused lights over prep areas, stove, and sink prevent eye strain and make it easier to work quickly and safely. Personalizing the space with convenient gadgets and tools that cater to your cooking style can streamline the cooking process, making it faster and more enjoyable.
2 – Be prepared
Cooking great meals in a small kitchen is all about being prepared ahead of time. One great technique is to prep ingredients in advance. This means chopping vegetables, measuring spices, or cutting meats before you start cooking. You can store prepped items in small containers in the fridge so they’re ready to grab when you start cooking.
When prepping, think about the order of your cooking steps. Start with tasks that can be done in advance. Like, if you need boiled potatoes for two recipes, boil them at the same time. This not only saves space but also makes cooking quicker.
Having your tools ready and at arm’s length helps you as well. When you don’t need to move around so much to get things, you aren’t banging around in a small kitchen.
3 – Use surfaces creatively
One of the biggest drawbacks of a small kitchen is the limited counter space to work with. In a small kitchen, using every inch of counter space wisely is key. One way to do this is by using multi-functional kitchen tools. For example, a cutting board that fits over your sink can double as extra counter space.
If you run out of room on your counters, look for other surfaces. A dining table can be a good spot for food prep. Just make sure to protect it with a cutting board or mat.
