How to handle veggies with ease

Veggies are an all important part of a meal but sometimes storing and using them to best capacity can be quite a task. Take a look at these easy tips and tricks that help make life in the kitchen simpler.

1. How to store onion paste

Paste of raw onions can turn bitter after a while. For longer storage life lightly fry onions in little oil before grinding. Or just store the paste with a thin layer of oil on top of it.

2. How to maintain the bright green colour of peas

Put the peas in boiling hot water and let it boil. Drain. Pour chilled water. Drain. – Basically blanch them! This works great for leafy veggies too. 

3. How to chop onions without crying

Peel and halve the onions. The keep in cold water for a couple of minutes and then start chopping them minus any tears. 

4. How to keep green leafy vegetables fresh for longer time

Pluck away the stems, roots or other muddy unwanted parts. Wash the veggies well, dry them and then store refrigerated wrapped in paper. 

5. How to remove bitterness from karela

Slit it from the middle and rub it well with some salt. Keep aside for a while. You will see most of the water content of the vegetable draining away along with lots of the bitterness.

6. How to stop potatoes from rotting

Always store them in an open space. Avoid cabinets and shelves where they are more prone to getting affected by moisture. Also potatoes rot quickly if stored near onions, so avoid that too. 

7. How to avoid cauliflower from discoloring

While boiling cauliflower or most white veggies add a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice to the water to keep their original white color.

8. How to skin whole tomatoes easily

Put tomatoes in boiling water, remove, refresh under cool water and peel off the skin smoothly. 

9. How to keep chillies fresh for longer time

While storing green chilies, remove the stems.

10. How to get more juice out of lemons

Rub the lemon between the palms of your hand or on a hard surface to break the tendrils inside and extract more juices out of them.