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Chicago Health Coach Mike Ockrim is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialst (CSCS) with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and a Certified Personal Trainer with the American Council on Exercise (ACE) that will engage you in functional movement training programs, nutrition and cooking education, and sleep improvement plans to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

20 Clever Cooking Tips and Kitchen Tricks

Kitchen tricks can make cooking and meal preparation easier, faster, and more enjoyable. Here are 20 clever kitchen tricks that can help you improve your culinary skills and take your cooking to the next level:

  1. Use a muffin tin to cook evenly sized eggs.

  2. Keep avocados from turning brown by storing them with an onion.

  3. Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time.

  4. Keep cut fruits and vegetables fresh by storing them in airtight containers.

  5. Use a ice cream scoop to portion cookie dough evenly.

  6. Use a microplane grater to quickly zest lemons and limes.

  7. Keep herbs fresh for longer by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and storing them in the refrigerator.

  8. Preheat your oven with a baking sheet for a crispier crust on pizza and other baked goods.

  9. Use a silicone baking mat for easy clean up and to prevent sticking.

  10. Store leftover sauce in ice cube trays for easy portioning and quick reheating.

  11. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked to a safe temperature.

  12. Store ginger in the freezer for easy grating.

  13. Roast garlic in the oven for a milder, sweeter flavor.

  14. Soften butter quickly by grating it with a cheese grater.

  15. Use a pizza cutter to easily slice baked goods, such as brownies and bars.

  16. Keep brown sugar soft by storing it with a slice of bread.

  17. Use a pastry brush to evenly spread sauces and marinades.

  18. Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy clean up and to prevent sticking.

  19. Use a silicone spatula to scrape every last bit of batter or sauce from a bowl.

  20. Store leftover soup or sauce in mason jars for an easy grab-and-go lunch option.

These 20 clever kitchen tricks can make cooking and meal preparation easier, faster, and more enjoyable. By incorporating these tips into your cooking routine, you can save time, reduce waste, and improve the taste and presentation of your dishes.