Embracing Practicality in My Kitchen: A Peek Inside
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Chapter 1: Unveiling My Kitchen Routine
Barb Dalton is curious about the inner workings of my kitchen, but she'll likely find it rather mundane. Still, I'm willing to tackle her questions head-on.
Are you a scratch cook or do you rely on convenience?
Most days, I whip up meals from scratch. However, I won't hesitate to grab some ready-made options when needed. I think that might be what dining out is all about, but I could be mistaken.
Do you prefer bulk buying or shopping for immediate needs?
I usually cook for two—my daughter Briana and myself. Occasionally, I prepare enough to feed six, especially when my other daughter, Shawna, who lives below us, joins us for a meal. I often make one-pot dishes like lasagna or pot roast, which are economical and help Shawna save a bit.
Butter or margarine: What's your choice?
It really depends on what I have stocked. I try to minimize waste. If there's butter in the fridge (which Briana frequently uses for baking), I'll use that. I also keep butter mixed with canola oil on hand, as it spreads more easily.
Tap water or filtered?
Our tap water is treated with chlorine, and I’d rather avoid that taste. For years, I purchased bottled water for cooking, coffee, and drinking, but last year, I invested in a five-gallon water dispenser. Now, I have three five-gallon bottles for drinking and a smaller one for coffee, which has helped reduce my plastic waste.
Is your kitchen accessible or tucked away?
That’s a bit ambiguous. Are we discussing my kitchen organization or my summer wardrobe? Let’s just say, looking at me in tight spandex is an experience I wouldn’t recommend.
Do you compost or throw away food scraps?
Ideally, I should be composting, but the only space I have is on the balcony, which makes it impractical. Unfortunately, I also lack a recycling bin, which is disappointing.
Do you prefer using a dishwasher or washing by hand?
I have a dishwasher—let's call him Bruce. I can wash in ten minutes what Bruce takes an hour and a half to do. I’ve tried using him twice, and it just takes too long.
Do you clean as you cook or do it later?
From culinary school, I learned to tidy up while cooking. By the time we’re done eating, all that’s left to wash are the plates and cutlery since the cooking utensils are already cleaned and stored.
Are you team paper towels or reusable cloths?
I use both but lean towards hand towels. They go into the laundry weekly, which works for me. Paper towels come in handy when one of the cats has a mishap.
Do you use commercial cleaners or natural alternatives?
I've tried both. Recently, I dealt with mold in the bathroom due to the lack of exhaust fans. I turned to a commercial cleaner that irritated my sinuses, but I haven’t found a natural solution that works effectively. I’m open to recommendations for both cleaning and unclogging drains.
Thanks for taking the time to read!
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