5 tips for a happier, more efficient 2021 kitchen
The kitchen has long been the heart of the home, and now more than ever is central to our lifestyles. With 60 percent of Americans discovering a greater appreciation for cooking throughout the pandemic and planning to upgrade their kitchens as a result, Michelin- starred Chef Curtis Stone is sharing his favorite appliances, features and tips that have allowed his family to better savor more time at home.
“As a chef, restaurant owner and father of two, I’m a strong believer in making your kitchen work harder for you. Whether you prioritize keeping your food fresher longer or find yourself experimenting with new cooking techniques and recipes, here are a few of my latest ‘ musthaves’ for maximizing efficiency in the kitchen of 2021.”
1. Put quality first.
If you ask me, there are two keys to making good food: great ingredients and quality appliances. That’s right, Michelin star not required! Restaurant- quality results are easy to achieve when you use fresh ingredients — always shop in season — and the right tools. I’m a big fan of appliances that combine power, quality performance and high efficiency. The new Bosch industrialstyle ranges and rangetops are a great example - sure to turn heads in any kitchen and also keep up with all that extra cooking! 2. Prioritize health and wellness. From the ingredients we’re putting into our bodies to managing busy schedules, health and wellness are an important part of happiness and energy. I recently learned that hydration plays a big role in our overall well- being. A recent study found that those who drink six or more glasses of water a day tend to be happier, wake up feeling more refreshed and are most likely to describe themselves as successful. Over half of Americans are also ‘ ice obsessed’ and drink less water if it is not cold or iced.
This could not be more true in our home — my boys are always in and out of the refrigerator for iced beverages — which is why a refrigerator that can both keep up with our fresh ingredient storage and ice and water habits is key. The latest QuickIcePro System refrigerators from Bosch produce a lot of ice quickly, thanks to one of the fastest ice makers available so you won’t be running out of ice anytime soon.
3. Streamline your kitchen space with versatile equipment.
We’re all cooking more than ever, with 85% of Americans trying at least one new recipe a month, but that is no reason to overcrowd your kitchen space. Opt for equipment that has multiple uses - from utensils to appliances to the ingredients you use.
4. Let technology do the work for you.
Sometimes it feels like we never slow down. Thankfully, certain technologies are designed to create efficiency, convenience and peace of mind, so we can spend less time on chores and more on what matters most. Picture this: your wall hood automatically turns on when you start cooking, a simple slide of a pan changes its temperature, your oven shuts off and notifies you when dinner is ready, and you can skip drying dishes post- dishwasher cycle. It’s all possible in the Bosch kitchen of 2021.
5. Plan, organize and store for fewer trips to the market.
Kitchen organization and fewer grocery runs start with a good list. Opt for versatile ingredients, plan for meals that stretch across multiple days and again prioritize quality when it comes to storage. My family chose a refrigerator that offers precise temperature and humidity control for maximum freshness.