As we shake off the dust of the current year and welcome a new year with open arms, it's time to do some housekeeping in the heart of your home: the kitchen. Whether you're an aspiring MasterChef or a humble home cook, giving your kitchen a clean slate will inspire you to whip up all kinds of delicious treats. Here's how to prepare and reset your kitchen for the new year in no time.
Clear out the clutter: Before diving into the nitty gritty cleaning process, you'll want to start by clearing out any unnecessary items cluttering your space. This means ditching any spices that expired long ago, getting rid of that novelty apron from 3 Christmases ago, and tossing out those cracked, rusted pots and pans that have seen better days. If it's not serving you or bringing you joy, don't hesitate to chuck it.
Deep clean every nook and cranny: Now that you've cleared the way, it's time to give everything a deep clean. Start by wiping down your countertops, appliances, and cabinets with a non-toxic cleaner. Next, tackle the oven and microwave, giving them a good ol' scrub down to remove any built-up grease or grime. Don't forget to clean out your fridge and freezer, tossing out any expired condiments, wilted veggies, or freezer-burnt leftovers.
Organize your space: Once everything's clean, it's time to set up your space for easy, efficient cooking. Group similar items together (flours, sugars, grains, etc.) and label them accordingly. Store your most-used items at eye level, and keep your less-used items in a separate cabinet or pantry. Create a designated space for your cutting boards, baking sheets, and small appliances to avoid digging through a pile of stuff every time you need something.
Invest in new tools:
- Treat yourself to some brand-new kitchen tools to start the year off fresh.
- Consider upgrading your cutting board or knives or splurging on a quality stand mixer or food processor.
- If you're on a budget, start with the basics: a good set of measuring cups and spoons, sturdy spatulas, and reliable cookware.
Set some goals: Now that your kitchen is sparkling and set up for success, it's time to set some culinary goals for the new year. Maybe you want to perfect your homemade pasta recipe or finally try your hand at baking sourdough bread. Perhaps you want to host a dinner party for your friends or simply commit to cooking at home more instead of ordering takeout every night. Write your goals down and post them somewhere in your kitchen for daily inspiration.
With a little elbow grease and some intention, you can easily prepare and reset your kitchen for the new year. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a newbie to the kitchen, a clean slate will help you achieve your culinary dreams one dish at a time. So grab a glass of your favorite beverage, turn on some music, and get to it!