How to Never Be Late for Dinner Again: Master Your Cooking Time with These Tricks

I wholeheartedly believe that cooking is supposed to be a pleasure, not stressful in the least. Let's get real, though: there is nothing more irritating than showing up late to dinner because your chicken is raw or your veggies are mushy. I also know I am not alone in those moments. Fear not, though, as today I am going to share with you some of my favorite time-saving tricks and insider tips so that you can become the master of the kitchen timer.

Get a Grip on Your Meat

It's one of the first things we learn about cooking. It's also the thing that can make or break a meal.

First, invest in a good meat thermometer. It's the most accurate way to tell when meat is cooked to perfection, no matter what the recipe says. You don't want to guess. I mean, those thermometers that have a needle or a probe, which you stick into the thickest part of the meat. It gives an accurate reading of the temperature internally. Don't be a hero by skipping over it, 'cause you are gonna regret it! The thermometer will save you from loads of disappointment and possible food poisoning, too. It is a total game-changer; trust me.

The Secret to Perfect Vegetables

I like to think of the timing for vegetables as being on a sliding scale: You want them to be tender, but not mushy; crisp, but not raw.

When it comes to most vegetables, one cannot go wrong with a good stir-fry. First things first, make sure you have a hot pan and high heat to get those veggies sizzling. Do not overcrowd the pan, though. Make sure the vegetables have enough room to breathe and cook well through. If you'd like, you might also want to try tossing in a little bit of oil, salt, and pepper for added flavor. The best thing about this method? It's fast!

But for those who like their vegetables roasted, don't be afraid to toss on some garlic and herbs, adding a smidgen more flavor. And if you want to get really fancy, well, you can try roasting them in a couple of ways: slice and dice, or even roast them whole. It's all about finding what works best for you.

My advice? Roast those veggies in the same oven as your chicken. That way, you're killing two birds with one stone, so to speak! You can even throw your potatoes in with them! And speaking of potatoes.

Mastering the Spud

Potatoes are among my very favorite side dishes, but let's be real-they are a pain in the neck to cook. A good old-fashioned baked potato takes forever. But, there's a method to get them cooked through in a fraction of the time. It's all about microwaving!

I know, I know. This might sound a little like cheating, but believe me, it does work. That cuts down the cooking time by about half. Just prick some potatoes with a fork and microwave them on high for about 5 to 7 minutes, then finish them off in the oven. It's a great marriage of quick and delicious. And you can even top those with more flavors. Sprinkle some cheese, throw on some chili, or dollop on some sour cream. It is win-win all the way around!

Be Not Afraid of the Microwave

Yes! I said it. The microwave is not the bad guy. It is a real timesaver in the kitchen, serving to speed up your cooking of rice, soup, and even defrosting of frozen meats. Just make sure to check your microwave's instructions and proceed accordingly. You can even steam your veggies in a microwave-safe container. It is an extremely time-efficient and easy way to cook them, keeping the veggies very tender. ## Practice Makes Perfect

Above all, it is practice that plays a crucial role. Do not be afraid to experiment in the kitchen. The more you cook, the better at timing everything just right you will get. And remember to have fun! Cooking should be a thing you do to relax and enjoy, rather than a chore that stresses you out. Put on your favorite music, grab a glass of wine, and get cooking!