HACKS & HINTS

KITCHEN TIPS

CLEAN YOUR DISH SPONGE WITH VINEGAR

How often do you change your kitchen sponge? Chances are it’s not enough. You should replace your sponge every two weeks or so, because bacteria love sponges. But if you’re trying to save cash (or the planet) you can wring a little extra germ-free life out of your sponge by cleaning it weekly. There are several effective methods but our favourite two are vinegar and the microwave. Soak the sponge in vinegar for five minutes, then rinse. If microwaving, make sure the sponge is wet and then nuke it for two minutes – but keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn. Be careful removing the sponge as it will be hot – and only microwave metal-free sponges.

LET AVOCADOS RIPEN AT ROOM TEMPERATURE

Avocados can be tricky little things: perfectly ripe one minute, then gone off the next. Extend the length of time they are good by leaving them out at room temperature until they are ripe. Give them a gentle press with your finger and if they are a little soft, they are good to go. To halt the ripening process, put them in the fridge. Once they have been cut, leave the stone in the remaining half. You can also squeeze a little lemon juice over the top to preserve them.

USE BUTTER FOR A DINNER SHORTCUT

Need a quick and easy way to make dinner when you are short on time? Flavoured butters are for you. Mix softened butter and herbs and spices of your choice in a food processor, and then shape into a roll using foil. Refrigerate or freeze and pull them out when needed. Ideal for pasta, stir-fry or prawn dishes.