Keeping your kitchen clean while you cook may seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re preparing a complex meal with multiple dishes. You may find yourself overwhelmed with a mountain of dirty dishes, spilled ingredients, and messy countertops, turning what should be a therapeutic experience into a stressful one.
However, with the right mindset and a few strategic tricks up your sleeve, you can maintain a spotless kitchen, even during the busiest of cooking adventures. This blog post will guide you step by step on how to keep your kitchen clean as you go during meal preparation, turning chaos into calm. Welcome to the art of clean cooking!
Preparation Step
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The preparation is crucial to for having a clean cook. you can break it down as follows,
Make your game plan
It can be helpful to write down the steps on paper. This simple practice ensures that you have a clear roadmap to follow, especially during the initial stages of habit formation. By documenting key points and details of your cooking process, you provide yourself with a tangible reference that aids in creating a habit that lasts. Remember that you are trying to get ready in advance.
Have the menu ready before you start cooking. Knowing what ingredients are necessary for each dish will reduce the chances of running out of something while in the middle of meal preparation, which often leads to chaos and disorganization.
Have your dishwasher empty and ready to use
When setting up your kitchen, it’s important to ensure that your dishware has sufficient space for dirty dishes. This will help you avoid the common mistake of overcrowding your dishwasher when you’re in the process of cleaning dishes. By leaving enough space for dirty dishes, you’ll have the necessary room to clean as you cook, allowing for a more efficient and organized kitchen routine.
Have your utensils ready
Before you begin make sure the utensils, pots, pans etc. that you will use are clean. This will save you time and prevent unnecessary clutter from accumulating in your kitchen. Additionally, it ensures that your cooking tools are ready to be used.
Have your garbage bin or a bag on hand
I guess depends on the size of your kitchen, As you cook, try to keep a trash bowl or bag nearby. This will help you avoid constantly running back and forth to the garbage can, saving you valuable time and keeping your cooking area clean and organized.
Declutter your work area
Before you start cutting or assembling ingredients, it’s important to ensure that your work area is clean and tidy. Whether it’s your kitchen countertop or a designated table where you prepare your ingredients, take a few moments to wipe it down and remove any clutter. Having a clean and organized workspace not only promotes food safety but also allows for a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience. So, before you dive into your culinary adventure, take a moment to set the stage for success by preparing a clean and inviting work area.
Organize your workspace area
When organizing your cooking space, it’s helpful to assign specific areas for different purposes. For instance, designate one area solely for storing and organizing your ingredients and seasonings, ensuring easy access during the cooking process. Another designated space can be dedicated to keeping your empty containers, measuring cups, and other essential utensils neatly arranged and within reach. Lastly, allocate a separate area for storing your cleaning tools, making it convenient to maintain a tidy and hygienic cooking environment. By creating these distinct spaces, you can optimize efficiency and streamline your cooking routine.
Have cleaning tools ready to use
To ensure a smooth cleaning process, it’s important to have your cleaning tools at the ready. Be prepared with towel papers for quick drying, addressing any floor spills, and placing dirty spoons or utensils in a designated area. Additionally, keep a wet damp cloth handy specifically for cleaning the stovetop. Lastly, make sure to have a suitable disinfectant or cleaner readily available for wiping down the countertop or table. By having these tools and supplies within reach, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any cleaning task efficiently and effectively.
Although it may seem like an extensive list, following it will ultimately save you time. After a few repetitions, these actions will become second nature and you will perform them effortlessly.
Have some simple rules while cooking
Embarking on your culinary journey brings forth the most delightful chaos. The stove simmers with one meal, while another awaits its turn in the oven. During this flurry, you realize a touch of seasoning is needed for your other dish. Amidst the activity, maintaining focus on cleaning can be challenging.
But don’t worry! By establishing some general rules, you can transform this seemingly chaotic situation into a smoother and more enjoyable cooking experience. With attention to detail and careful coordination, you’ll effortlessly navigate through the tasks at hand. So roll up your sleeves, don that apron, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen!
Return things to the right place
Return the ingredients, containers and seasoning you are not using to their place as soon as you are done with them.
Put the utensils that you don’t need anymore on the sink immediately
if you have some time rinse them in a moment and put them in the dishwasher
Move the food to an empty container
After cooking the food to perfection, simply transfer it to a clean, empty container. This way, you can keep it fresh and delicious. Oh, and don’t forget to quickly wash the pan you used so it’s all clean and ready for your next cooking adventure!
End with a Clean-Up
Finally, after your meal prep, take a few minutes to wash the dishes, wipe down surfaces, and sweep the floor. This leaves your kitchen clean and ready for the next use.
Celebrate your new cleaning habit
Keeping the kitchen clean while cooking may take some practice, but don’t let that discourage you. Celebrate each small victory and acknowledge your progress towards a cleaner and more organized kitchen.
In conclusion, cooking should not be a stressful experience that leaves you with a messy kitchen and feelings of frustration. By implementing the step-by-step guide shared in this blog post, you can turn your cooking sessions into a therapeutic and enjoyable activity. Remember to have the right mindset, and use the tips and tricks provided to maintain a clean kitchen as you go.
As someone who used to avoid cooking due to the mess it left behind, I can attest to the positive impact that incorporating this system has had on my daily routine. So next time you’re about to embark on a cooking adventure, remember the art of clean cooking and let’s make our kitchens a peaceful and tidy space.
Trust me; both your taste buds and your sanity will thank you. Now go put these tips into action and discover how much easier (and more fun!) meal preparation can be when done with a clean-as-you-go mindset!
