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The temperature is rising above normal, and the country is witnessing heat waves in many parts. People are being advised not to expose themselves to the hot weather and stay as much indoors as possible. Being said that the hottest room in every household is the kitchen and cooking becomes difficult in the summer season.
The kitchen is considered the heart of every household. It is where people cook meals, create experiences, and bond together as a family. However, in the summer season, it becomes very difficult to stay in the kitchen as it becomes hot owing to the flame, odour, and grease. The space becomes unpleasant, and it becomes difficult to stay there for long hours. Cooking in a hot kitchen can be uncomfortable and can lead to loss of energy.
However, with simple tricks and tips you can maintain a cool kitchen and still enjoy delicious homemade meals. Here are six tips that will keep your kitchen cool:
- Cook During Cooler Hours
Cook during the coolest times of the day, particularly early in the morning or later in the evening. During this time, the outdoor temperature is comparatively lower which will reduce measures of extensive cooling in your kitchen. Cook in batches and prepare the meal beforehand to minimise the cooking during the hottest hours of the day.
- Prepare Your Ingredients Before Hand
Your cutting, chopping, grinding, and other such activities can be done beforehand. These activities require a lot of energy and are best to when done way prior to cooking. Plan your meal according and keep your ingredients ready beforehand. This will not only help you to save time in the kitchen but also prevent the kitchen from becoming super-hot.
- Opt For No-Cook And Quick-Cook Meals
No-cook or quick-cook meals give you the advantage of spending minimal time in front of the hot stove or oven. Prepare salads, sandwiches, wraps, and cold soups that are light and refreshing and require little or no cooking. Besides, make use of kitchen appliances such as slow cookers, pressure cookers, and toaster ovens that will generate less heat as compared to traditional ovens and stoves.
- Use Small Appliances
The use of small appliances like a microwave, air fryer, or electric griddle minimises the production of heat buildup in the kitchen. These small appliances are ideal for summer and will help you to cook in small batches or prepare individual dishes.
- Maximize Ventilation And Airflow
Ensure that your kitchen is well-ventilated, thus, keeping your kitchen cool. Make extensive use of exhaust fans, range hoods, and other ventilated appliances to remove heat and odour from the kitchen. Besides, keep the door and windows of the kitchen open to promote cross-ventilation. You can also use portable fans and ceiling fans for the circulation of air in the kitchen.
- Minimize Heat-Producing Activities
Make sure to reduce heat-producing activities in the kitchen to prevent unnecessary warming of the space. Avoid boiling large pots of water, using the oven for extended periods, or running multiple heat-generating appliances simultaneously. You can also choose cooking methods that result in less heat production such as steaming, sautéing, or stir-frying. Besides, keep the lids on pots and pans to trap heat and cook food more efficiently.
