Recipes Food Delicious Quick Eats

Recommend tools for preparing Quick Eats

In order to prepare Quick Eats, there are certain tools you will want to have handy. You do not need to go out and spend a lot of money. In many cases, the cheapie tools work just as well as the expensive ones. In fact, I have found this, especially with the non-stick pots and pans. The less expensive models were thinner, thus requiring less heat and cooked food faster. Be careful with them, however, as they tend to bend much more easily.

Electric Appliances: These are handy tools and make your life easier. However, part of Quick Eats also must include quick cleanup. When you consider, for example, dicing an onion. When you consider the time it takes to break out that food processor, set up the right blades, etc, cut up the onion into cubes, and running the device; not to mention the clean-up, and putting it all back away ... ! It might be easier to just dice up the onion on a chopping block and toss it into the pan.

Microwave Oven - Mid power type should be just fine.

Deep Fryer - Fill with fresh canola oil and keep it fresh.

Food Processor - Does not need to be a fancy or expensive model.
Pots and Pans: As said above, the thin ones work better as long as you are careful with them. Make sure they are non-stick. It will cost you less if you purchase these as a set, rather than individually. You will also need a couple of small cookie sheets, a pizza pan and at least one big pot. Several strainers, of various sizes are also a must. I also like to keep around a series of disposable foil type pans.

Gadgets: These things will definitely save you time. You will need many spoons of various sizes. A good set of measuring cups and spoons are also a must. A pizza cutter is handy, as well as a potato peeler. A good oven mitt, several Spatulas, an oven thermometer, and a wisk. Several types and sizes of tongs are also an absolute necessity.

Knives and Cutlery: On these, don't skimp. Get a good set and keep them sharp. It is best to get a block for them and keep them near your preparation area. Rather than a big, wood, chopping block I recommend having several small plastic ones. Mark one for meat and another for vegi's and other things. Never mix up the two or use one to cut the other. I have developed a habit of soaking my cutting surfaces in boiling water for three minutes after every use before washing. That helps to avoid turning Quick Eats into a quick bellyache. It is also handy to have a good pair of kitchen sheers.

There are probably other things you will find handy in your kitchen. This list is by no means exhaustive. However, having these things around, clean and handy, are a must if you want to prepare quick meals.

{Written by Jim Whitney}