Certainly! Here are some everyday cooking hacks using an oven or grill that you might find useful:
Oven Hacks:
Reheat Pizza with a Cup of Water: When reheating pizza in the oven, place a cup of water on the same oven rack. The steam from the water will help prevent the crust from getting too dry and maintain its crispy texture.
Use a Baking Stone for Crispy Results: Preheat a baking stone in the oven before placing your pizza, bread, or other baked goods on it. The stone absorbs and distributes heat evenly, resulting in a crispy bottom crust.
Quick Roasted Garlic: Wrap a whole garlic bulb in aluminum foil, drizzle it with olive oil, and roast it in the oven at around 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes. The roasted garlic will become soft and spreadable, perfect for adding to dishes or spreading on bread.
Oven-Dry Herbs: Place fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and leave them in the oven at the lowest temperature possible (usually around 180°F or 80°C) until they are dried but still green. Store them in an airtight container for later use.
Make Perfect Bacon in the Oven: Lay bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, depending on your preferred crispiness. This method reduces splattering and ensures even cooking.
Grill Hacks:
Create a Two-Zone Fire: On a charcoal grill, pile the coals on one side and leave the other side empty. This setup allows you to have both direct heat for searing and indirect heat for slower, more controlled cooking.
Use a Cast Iron Skillet on the Grill: Place a cast iron skillet on the grill grates to cook delicate foods like fish or small vegetables without worrying about them falling through the grates.
Prevent Sticking: Before grilling, brush the grill grates with oil or use an oil-soaked cloth held with tongs to prevent sticking.
Grill Citrus Fruits: Cut lemons, limes, or oranges in half and grill them cut-side down for a minute or two. The grilling caramelizes the sugars, intensifying their flavors and making them a perfect addition to salads, cocktails, or as a garnish for grilled dishes.
Marinate with Ziplock Bags: Use ziplock bags to marinate meats and vegetables. They are convenient, allow for even coating, and are easy to dispose of after use.
These cooking hacks can save you time and enhance the flavors and textures of your dishes. Always follow proper safety guidelines when using the oven or grill, and experiment with these tips to find what works best for you!