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An electric kettle is usually seen as a tool for boiling water, but a programmable kettle offers more than just that. The preset temperature settings and precise controls allow you to cook or heat various everyday items without turning on the stove. This can be helpful for students, working professionals, or anyone with limited time or kitchen access. Instead of only using it to make tea or instant noodles, you can try several small cooking tricks that save effort and clean-up. The Usha programmable kettle is built with a stainless steel body, concealed heating, and specific temperature settings that make it possible to use it like a mini cooker. Below are five cooking hacks you can try with your kettle, using ingredients found in most Indian homes.
1. Oats Porridge Without Watching The Stove
Oats porridge is a common breakfast option, but making it on the stove requires attention. Using your programmable kettle, you can prepare it easily without worrying about burning or overflowing. You can add rolled oats, water or milk, and a pinch of salt into the kettle. Select a temperature around 80–85°C and allow it to heat for a few minutes. Keep the lid open slightly to avoid milk foam overflow.
Once it reaches the right consistency, you can pour it out and top it with fruit, seeds, or jaggery. This method is safe for the appliance and cuts down on cleaning because the kettle interior is smooth and non-stick. Avoid using flavoured instant oat packets, as they often contain sugars and additives that stick to the bottom.
2. Boiled Eggs Without A Gas Burner
The Usha programmable kettle can be used to boil eggs without any risk of cracking or overcooking. You can place one or two eggs in the kettle and cover them with enough water. Use the boiling function and allow the eggs to sit in hot water for about 10 minutes after switching it off. This gives you firm boiled eggs without overcooking the yolk.
This is useful for people who live in hostels or small apartments. You do not need to add anything to the water. Once done, remove the eggs and rinse them in cold water for easier peeling. Make sure the water level covers the eggs fully to avoid uneven cooking. This method saves time and keeps your stove free for other tasks.
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3. Maggi And Instant Soups The Clean Way
Instant noodles are a popular kettle hack, but many people find the noodles either get too soft or leave residue at the bottom. Using the temperature presets on the kettle helps control that. For Maggi or similar noodles, add the dry contents and enough water to cover them. Use the 90–95°C setting to heat it without reaching a full rolling boil.
Once the noodles soften, stir them with a wooden spoon or fork and keep the lid slightly open. Do not close the lid completely when using spice packets, as the froth can build up. For soup mixes, always stir first in cold water, then heat. This prevents lumps and avoids the powder sticking to the heating plate. After cooking, pour it into a bowl rather than eating directly from the kettle to avoid damaging the surface with metal utensils.
4. Steamed Vegetables For Light Meals
Light steaming is possible in the Usha programmable kettle using a steel strainer or mesh bowl that fits into the kettle without touching the heating element. Add a small amount of water at the base and place your strainer with chopped vegetables like beans, carrots, or peas above it. Use the steam or keep-warm setting to allow slow, gentle steaming.
This works well if you want to prep a quick salad or side dish. Cover the top lightly with a lid or small plate to trap steam. Avoid steaming starchy vegetables like potatoes or yams, as they take too long and might affect the kettle. Leafy vegetables like spinach or methi can also be lightly steamed using this method.
5. Herbal Teas And Kadha With Precise Temperature Control
One of the best uses of the programmable kettle is for making herbal infusions or kadhas. Many Indian home remedies use spices like tulsi, cinnamon, black pepper, and ginger boiled in water. With the Usha kettle, you can prepare this without losing nutrients through over-boiling. Add water and your ingredients, then use the 80–90°C setting to gently simmer.
Let it stay at that temperature for five to seven minutes. This allows enough steeping to extract flavour without damaging delicate herbs. You can strain and drink it warm. This method can also be used to make green tea or chamomile tea, which should not be made with fully boiling water. Using the kettle allows you to hit the right temperature every time.
The Usha programmable kettle is more than a water-boiling appliance. It can help you prepare simple meals, healthy drinks, and quick snacks using just one plug-in device. These five hacks show how the adjustable temperature and concealed heating features make everyday cooking tasks easier and safer. The key is to stay within the kettle’s capacity and avoid adding sticky or oily substances. If used carefully, this small appliance can save time, reduce dishes, and make your morning or late-night cooking more manageable.
