Being in the kitchen for the first time—or even after years of cooking—can be both exciting and overwhelming. Ever tried to whip up a simple dish and still managed to mess it up? You’re not alone! Cooking always looks easy on TV, but in reality, even seasoned home cooks have their fair share of “oops” moments. That’s where these kitchen hacks come to the rescue.
Think of them as your modern-day version of those wise little tips grandma used to share—quick, simple, and lifesaving for busy moms. Here are five easy kitchen hacks for beginners (and pros) that will save you time, energy, and a whole lot of frustration.
1. How to Clean a Greasy Pan Without the Struggle
Cooking something delicious—like creamy pesto pasta or spicy chicken wings—often leaves behind a greasy, stubborn pan. Scrubbing it clean can feel like a workout (and not the fun kind). Here’s the hack:
- Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.
- Spread it all over the greasy spots.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently.
2. How to Check If Your Boiled Eggs Are Done
Boiling eggs sounds easy—until you end up with overcooked ones that have that odd grey ring around the yolk. The perfect hard-boiled egg takes about 10–12 minutes of simmering. If you’re unsure, try this spin test:
- Place the egg on a flat surface and spin it.
- Stop it with your finger, then let go.
- If it keeps spinning, it’s still raw. If it stops right away, it’s cooked and ready to eat.
3. How to Cut Onions Without Tears
Tears while chopping onions? It’s the kitchen’s universal heartbreak. Those gases released when you slice into an onion irritate your eyes—causing that burning sensation. To stop the waterworks:
- Chill your onions in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before chopping.
- Or, keep a small bowl of water nearby while peeling and slicing.
4. How to Keep Apples from Turning Brown
You slice a fresh apple for your kids, only to find it looking sad and brown an hour later. That’s oxidation at work. Here’s how to stop it:
- Soak apple slices in ginger ale or a cup of salt water for a few minutes.
- Drain and store them in an airtight container.
5. How to Cut Hard Vegetables Easily
Radishes, beets, and other dense veggies can be tricky to slice—even with your sharpest knife. Here’s a pro tip:
- Stick your kitchen knife into a jar of uncooked rice for a few minutes before cutting.
- The rice draws out any moisture from the blade, keeping it sharper for longer.
