10 Kitchen Tools You’re Overusing and What to Do Instead

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Our kitchens today have become such busy places that most gadgets get overused. Yes, kitchen tools are helpful, but overuse can quickly become a hindrance and, at times, destructive. They must be properly balanced, which means being clear about when it makes sense to use them and when more fitting alternatives are available.

This guide to your kitchen collection provides the top ten household items that are putting you back in your cooking routine. By finding smarter and better ways to use them or proposing alternatives, you can increase your cooking efficiency and schedule kitchen work more efficiently.

Blender

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The blenders are versatile but overused in cases where we should use a tool to chop the vegetables. The problem with using a blender for all your prep tasks is that too much blending can sometimes result in undesirable textures. Use a knife or food processor for neat chops.

Microwave

Microwaves are undoubtedly convenient, but for reheating a dish you spent hours or even days making, they cook things unevenly and can leave the meal soggy. If time allows, you should reheat only using your stovetop or an oven. These methods retain texture and flavor more so than other methods.

Non-stick Skillet

Non-stick skillets are useful for delicate foods such as eggs (yes, we know they should be seasoned due to their protein), but using them so much can cause their coating to wear down. Stainless steel or cast iron pans will provide better results and last longer for most cooking operations. Reserve non-stick pans for what they do best to make them last longer.

Garlic Press

Although efficient, garlic presses squeeze out a good portion of the flavorful oils and change the texture of your garlic. When you mince with a knife, you can be more selective in choosing where the flavor particles go. Try hand chopping for a more flavorful mixture.

Coffee Grinder

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Many people use coffee grinders to grind spices simply because they are convenient. However, with regular use, they can intermingle flavors and wear down your grinder. A spice grinder, mortar, and pestle will give you a more consistent, flavorful grind.

Salad Spinner

Salad spinners work fine for quickly drying greens but can bruise them if used too much. Give soft herbs a quick pat with your towel to keep them nice and fresh, and save the spinner for hardier leaves.

Food Processor

A food processor can be used for big jobs, but it can be too powerful to handle small amounts or softer foods. For smaller jobs, you will find the extra texture and control available from a hand chopper or manual slicing preferable.

Oven

Ovens are left to cool longer than they bake. It uses an excessive amount of energy through preheating and extended operation. It is always worth considering whether or not your oven needs to be turned on for smaller dishes, opting instead for a toaster oven or the stovetop.

Measuring Cup

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Using only liquid measuring cups as a substitute for solid foods can lead to recipe errors. For solids, using dry measuring cups will help you measure more accurately and maintain the desired consistency of your dishes.

Electric Can Opener

Another small appliance that can take up valuable counter space is an automatic (electric) can opener, a convenient but unnecessary gadget for most homes. Hand-operated can openers are smaller, do not need electrical power, and work just as well if you only use them occasionally. Select manual control for savings and simplicity.