Speed Up Prep: Time-Saving Tricks for Every Step in the Kitchen

PHOTO BY FREDOX CARVALHO ON PEXELS

Cooking doesn’t have to mean chaos. With a few smart shortcuts, you can prep faster and get meals on the table with less effort.

From clever cutting tools to clean-up hacks, time-saving tricks can streamline every step in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these tips help you work smarter—not harder.

Garlic Peeling With a Shake Method

Peeling garlic doesn’t have to be tedious. With the shake method, you can peel several cloves at once in under a minute. All you need is a hard container with a lid—like two metal bowls or a large jar.

Place the garlic inside, seal it, and shake vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds. The skins loosen from the cloves quickly.

Once done, simply open the container and remove the peeled garlic. It’s an easy way to save time during prep.

Here’s a demonstration:

Using Kitchen Shears for Herbs

Kitchen shears are a fast, efficient tool for cutting herbs. They slice cleanly without bruising leaves, helping herbs stay fresh and flavorful.

You can snip directly into a bowl or over the sink, skipping the cutting board altogether. It’s a simple way to save time and reduce cleanup.

For best results, keep blades sharp and rinse after cutting sticky herbs. Comfortable grips help with control. Shears work well on parsley, cilantro, chives, and other soft herbs.

Here’s a post recommending the use of kitchen shears for herbs:

Pre-Warm Measuring Tools for Sticky Ingredients

Sticky ingredients like honey, syrup, or molasses can cling to measuring tools, making prep slower and messier. A simple trick can help things move faster.

Run your measuring spoons or cups under hot water for a few seconds, then dry them quickly. The warmth helps sticky ingredients slide off more easily without leaving residue.

Alternatively, a light coat of oil or non-stick spray works just as well, as the following video recommends:

These small steps save time, reduce waste, and keep your prep space cleaner.