3 quick tips to save time in the kitchen

I LOVE cooking… when I have time to do it. But I hate cooking under pressure. And by pressure I mean while overtired, hangry kids yell at you for more snacks, that you don’t want to give them because then they won’t eat the dinner that you are making which will be ready in 10 minutes. Does that sound like a familiar scenario to anyone?

You don’t have to have every single detail of every day worked out and planned ahead, but here are a few little tips that you could put in to practice to see how they work for you and your family.

ONE

Cook once eat twice (or 3 or 4 times) -  Depends how big you cook right? I rarely cook a dinner that won’t last 2 meals. I enjoy cooking but I enjoy having extra time in my day much more. The slow cooker is your best friend in this scenario and perfect as we head into the colder months down here in the Southern Hemisphere. Think soups, stews and curries.

TWO

Packaged snacks and treats are your friend - I always say handmade is great but sanity is better. Have a box of bars in the cupboard for when you need or simply want a treat and don’t feel like getting the food processor out. You don’t have to give up chocolate to stay healthy.

THREE

Prepare lunchboxes and breakfast the night before - I’m an early riser but I still don’t like the pressure of having to prepare a lunchbox in the morning when there is time-pressure, grumpy toddlers screaming for breakfast and myself to get ready for the day. Overnight oats are honestly the easiest thing you’ll ever prepare.

Bonus tip: if you have kids who aren’t going to care/school, prepare a lunchbox for them too!

The great thing about all 3 of these tips is they will all save you money. Whether that’s buying cheaper cuts of meat for the slow cooker or avoiding eating out because you have lunchboxes prepared. Winning!

Give them a try and tell me what you think and please share any of your winning time-saving tips.