Proper kitchen storage and organization are key elements for being an efficient cook. How does that work, you ask? The return question would be: how many times have you searched for that missing measuring cup, misplaced spice, or other item and burned or over prepared your meal during the process? It happens much more often than most are willing to admit.
More storage space is always sought after and it is particularly useful in the kitchen. However, having ample storage space without organization only serves to compound the problem of finding items on a moment’s notice that are necessary for preparing a great meal or food item. Therefore, Southwest Kitchen and Bath is offering these helpful ways to both store and organize your kitchen so that items can be readily found and foods can be successfully prepared.
Efficient Pantry
Pantries are a necessity in any kitchen. Many items are purchased ahead of time that are required for upcoming meals, or are purchased in bulk to save money. However, if pantries are not properly organized, it can be a nightmare trying to find that needed item that you purchased a couple months ago which got shoved into the back recesses of any number of shelves. To be better prepared, create as much storage space as possible inside your pantry to spread items out and then utilize storage containers that are well labeled and placed in designated areas (canned/dried fruits, grains, condiments, etc).
Well Organized Prep Station
Preparing items and ingredients is the majority of work required to make great meals. Vegetables need to be diced and sliced, meats need to be trimmed and tenderized, spices need to be skillfully mixed and added, breads need to be sifted and kneaded, etc. Therefore, in order to be a more efficient cook, create a well organized preparation station that contains most everything required within a few steps. To both save space and better organize, build an overhead pot and pan rack, create a pull-out cutting board, use a wall-mounted knife rack, place spices on a lazy Susan in a nearby cabinet, etc.
Make Wall Space Count
Many kitchens contain a great deal of wall space that is either left blank or filled with decorations. Small kitchens in particular can benefit from transforming wall space into organized storage. There are a number of ways of achieving this goal. Create custom shelving units to fit in unconventional spaces or to utilize space over doorways or appliances, attach open shelves where fancy cooking items or special dinnerware can be displayed, attach a peg board to an area where various required or special kitchen utensils and tools can be hung, secure knife blocks or towel racks to the wall, etc.
With a little imagination and research, you will find that there are a wealth of ideas for creating and organizing space so that you become a more efficient cook. While reviewing your kitchen for ideas, consider giving it a new facelift by adding beautiful kitchen cabinet doors from Southwest Kitchen in Tucson.