It’s January and 2013 has quickly gone by. I want to thank you for being a loyal reader. Your support is greatly appreciated!
January is National Get Organized Month
Did you know that January is National Get Organized Month? The place where I need continual re-organization is my kitchen. How about you?
Ingredients for Sorghum Flour Blend
The term “spring cleaning” usually refers to cleaning closets. But the kitchen deserves that same level of attention. I know it’s not spring yet, but I am always motivated to do the “spring cleaning” at the beginning of a new year, because that seems like a real beginning to me (rather than springtime). Once those Christmas decorations are put away, my attention turns to getting my world in order after the chaos of the holidays!
Regardless of when you clean, the same principles apply―what to toss, keep, or donate―so here are my thoughts on getting organized.
Protect Your Investment in Gluten-Free Ingredients
Keep gluten-free flours, whole grains, rice, and legumes in food-quality storage containers with tight-sealing lids to avoid spills and deter pests. Label the containers so out-dated items can be purged. It always amazes me to find how many items are past their expiration dates.
Clean Storage Containers Between Fillings
Before refilling a container of flour or grains, first empty it, then wash and dry thoroughly. Why? Food at the bottom of a container can turn rancid or stale, even when topped by fresh layers, and can produce an off-taste in gluten-free baking.
The same holds true for gluten-free whole grains. In fact, whole grains (and the flours ground from them) contain all three parts of the grain (the germ, endosperm, and bran) which means higher oil content which in turn hastens deterioration.
Choose the Proper Storage Location
Be sure to store containers in dark, dry places away from heat or direct sunlight. Otherwise, a warm location or the hot sun shining on the containers causes moisture to build up inside, hastening spoilage. Many people store flours and grains in the refrigerator or freezer to preserve freshness. Be sure to bring chilled ingredients to room temperature before baking so the chill won’t hamper the leavening’s rising ability.
Clean and Organize the Storage Areas
Shelves, cupboards, and countertops should be cleared and then wiped down thoroughly with an appropriate cleaning solution to remove dirt, but also any spills that can attract pests. Take the time to organize what goes back on the shelf by placing similar foods together. For example, all flours together and all whole grains together in a systematic order for easier access and better inventory management. Knowing what’s on the shelf prevents inadvertently buying duplicates. If the refrigerator or freezer is the prime storage area, clean and organize them as well.
It should go without saying, but if you have an “integrated” kitchen, be sure to clearly label the gluten-free items and, if possible, store them in a clearly-marked area to avoid mishaps.
Purge Unused Utensils, Appliances, and Gadgets; Organize What’s Left
This is the part I have the greatest trouble with. It seems that every year I accumulate more stuff! Appliances take up precious space, so if they’re important―but not used frequently―relegate them to easily-accessible storage to avoid cluttered workspaces. My counter-top appliances include a heavy-duty stand mixer for mixing bread dough and cookie dough and a powerful blender for gluten-free batters and smoothies. All other appliances must earn the right to occupy precious counter space, such as my toaster oven and coffeemaker.
Items in good working order but no longer needed―including utensils and gadgets that haven’t been used during the past year―can be donated to charity or to a friend who can use them. Also, clean out drawers, including the silverware drawer. Arrange those spatulas so they’re easy to reach. Are your knives sharpened?
Need Motivation?
Even though it’s not my favorite task, I’ve learned that keeping a clean, well-organized kitchen makes day-to-day cooking and baking so much easier and saves money, so take my advice and invest the time now to make life easier throughout the year.
Happy New Year!
