If you’re anything like us, you’re probably getting tired of the scenery in your kitchen. With stay-at-home measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restaurants slowly working their way back, millions of Americans have been cooking more than they’re probably used to. By now, you’re probably ready for some ease and inspiration, and we’ve got the trick for you.

Topeka Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has five kitchen hacks that you’re bound to be using moving forward, long past the end of the pandemic.

 

  •  Instant Bananas for Banana Bread

 

If you only make banana bread when you have some over-ripe bananas, heads up: you can make it whenever you want with this clever trick! Ripen a bunch of bananas in a half hour by placing them on a foil-lined sheet at 300 degrees. Check after 30 minutes to make sure the skin is brown and the inside is soft.

 

  • Extend the Life of Your Bananas

 

On the other end of the banana spectrum, you can keep them yellow longer with this simple trick. First, break them apart so each individual one is on its own, then wrap the stem in Saran Wrap or foil. This keeps the ripening process to only the stem, leaving the rest for you to enjoy!

 

  • Keep Hot Food Warm Longer

 

Nothing is worse than serving dinner and having it cool too quickly. But if you serve hot food on warm plates, it will extend the time that the food stays hot. All you have to do is place a stack of plates or bowls into the microwave for 30 seconds.

 

  • Keep Cold Things Colder Longer

 

For chilled drinks and frozen treats, use a frosty mug or cold bowl to keep these items the way they should be longer. Ideally, keep them in the freezer overnight and remove just before serving.

 

  • De-Stem Strawberries

 

Skip the knife and grab a straw. Put the straw through the pointy bottom part of the strawberry, push it through, and it will take the leaves right off once it breaks through to the other side.

 

To learn more about Topeka Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://topeka-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.