Habits we all have them, the Mitsubishi Electric Refrigeration Team have a few good ones to abide by around the kitchen, to help get you more organised, save time and maybe even some money this Spring.
- Prepare a shopping list before going grocery shopping. This will help you avoid doubling up and having to go on multiple trips to the store. Take note of the food you have leftover from previous weeks and create meals around these items to avoid wastage.
- Buy grocery items that can be used in multiple meals. When grocery shopping, focus on food items that can be utilised in various dishes throughout the week, so you know the items won’t go to waste.
- Meal prep and cook in bulk. Devote a few hours a week to prep and cook in bulk to ensure all of the groceries are used and not forgotten about. If food is already prepared into meals, you are more likely to eat it rather than opting for takeaway options.
- Repurpose leftover meals. Use previous leftovers in new dishes to keep your meal exciting whilst not wasting previously purchased groceries. Leftover food can be stored in the freezer in pre-made portions so that it can be easily added to meals.
- Buy in season & shop locally…but stay across pricing. Aussie weather can be temperamental, which can impact the price of our fresh fruit and vegetables. If you’re planning to buy in bulk, cross reference any recipes with grocery prices online. The last thing you want is to have committed to a mango dessert if the fruit is triple the usual price due to limited availability. But don’t hang on to too much. Never stuff the refrigerator too full. Cool air needs to circulate to keep food at a safe temperature.
- Ensure your refrigerator is the right temperature. To keep food fresh and ready for consumption, the fridge temperature should be between the range of 0ºC and 5ºC, or even lower if the fridge is jam-packed with food and other items. Selecting a fridge that contains LED lighting would be a shrewd decision, as they provide optimum illumination levels and also tend to be more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than other light bulbs.
- Using cling wrap and aluminium foil. Cling wrap and aluminium foil to protect leftovers is a useful suggestion that most of us resort to; however, it is important that they are used appropriately and for the right kinds of foods. Cling wrap often melts and sticks to food, especially when reheating in a microwave. Aluminium foil is a great option when using a conventional oven, although it is best not to use this for highly acidic foods, as it can affect how they taste. For food storage, you may also look to purchase reusable food wraps, such as a beeswax wrap to further reduce your home’s impact on the environment. These are great for storing certain types of food, but check with the manufacturer first for guidance on how to use and wash them.