The word “hack” is overused in several circumstances, from DIY projects to ways to save time. However, some shortcuts or tricks can help you make your cooking taste better. If you’re looking for ways to spice it up, make the most of your grocery money, or make your life in the kitchen easier, check out these “hacks” from an online discussion about cooking. 

1. Add Acidity of Some Type 

Your food may be missing the necessary acidity if it tastes bland, no matter how many spices or flavors you’ve added. There are a few ways to add acid: lemon juice, vinegar, lime juice, or even wine of some type. 

2. Clean While You Go 

It’s easier said than done, but it will make a significant difference in the process if you can follow behind yourself to clean. Even if you can’t fully clean your kitchen, you can get some of it done early. 

3. Prep Everything First – Mise En Place 

Before you start cooking, try prepping everything first. Cut up your vegetables and put your ingredients in line with the order of the recipe, and you will be much more at ease while you cook. 

4. Have Premade Meals on Hand 

If you need help finding the time to cook or are physically unable to undertake a complicated recipe, try premade meals or shortcuts. For example, in most grocery stores, you can find precut vegetables which can help you save time. 

5. Use Salty Sauces to Add Flavor 

Although most people think of soy sauce as something to eat with sushi or Japanese food, it has many uses in a savory flavor profile. You can use soy sauce in soups or even to sauté vegetables. Worcestershire sauce is also a great addition to your meals. 

6. Store Vegetables Properly or Learn to Revive Them 

As groceries become more expensive, making the most of your grocery haul is more critical than ever. If you’ve noticed that your vegetables are going bad quickly, research and learn how to store or revive them. Some vegetables must be kept with a paper towel to dry them, while others do better in standing water. 

7. Let Food Sit & Cool Down 

Please don’t cut your steak or chicken when it comes out of the oven or off the hot pan. Same with cookies, brownies, or anything that needs some time to settle. Instead, let the food sit before you cut or serve it. 

8. Get a Better Knife Set 

You may not need a $1,000 knife, but having a good set of knives (and a sharpener!) will make a difference in your meals. A sharp knife can help evenly cut vegetables and shorten prep time. 

9. Preheat Your Pan & Oven 

Most recipes tell you to preheat your oven and to what temperature. However, are you letting the oven preheat for long enough? If you’re using a pan or an air fryer, are you putting the food in too soon? It may take some trial or error, but ensure the pan or oven is hot enough before you start. 

10. Use MSG 

It may be controversial to some, but MSG is an incredible spice that, when used sparingly, can add a lot to your recipes. Don’t be any more afraid of MSG than you are of salt. 

Source: Reddit. 

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