Kitchen with no hassles

Have always been impressed by the Japanese style of uncluttered homes! Saw pictures in magazines and now a chance to see them first hand.

Anyway, I have been thinking about how our own kitchens can be organized better. I really do not want to stress on modular kitchens, or small Mumbai kitchens specifically. Any kitchen with an active cook, according to me, should have the focal point where the stove is (gas burner, electric burner etc) and so shall everything remain leashed to this point - you want to have things within reach especially those things that you use the most. Rest of the things put them in the periphery of vision. But a big ?no? to have the oil and spices in plain view. Well, you can buy the fancy containers but I would still tell you to put these two things inside a cupboard because these things are best kept in the innards of a dark cupboard. Keeps the quality and flavours going for a longer time.

I can say for myself that I love researching new appliances and then acquiring them! Well, if there is a need and space, then why not? There are so many tempting things that are creatively made to make things easier. Mount them on racks or slip under the shelf. Another space saver is a big spoon holder that allows smaller spoons in the periphery and long handled ladles etc in the centre. These are the things that get mixed up in drawers and one search for the right spoon can test the patience of a good man. If at all you like to organize things in a drawer, get one with separators. So in go the knives in one slot, forks in another, spoons in yet another! And yes, such drawers are also a blessing in the clothes cupboard because they keep the handkerchiefs away from the socks and save you oodles of search time. The fridge and freezer have door shelves. Good place to hide keys but also wonderful to keep small things like bottle openers and can openers, straws, cling film (keeping a roll in the freezer keeps the loose end always ready to pull and use!). Use this space to stack small items that will easily get lost in the deep shelves.

I get transported to the kitchen very easily, don?t I? Well, to give you some nice things to cook up if you are in your kitchen?.how about?Alu Kachalu Chaat, Nariyal Puri, Kaju aur Moti Pulao.

In Dubai this weekend for a live show. Will post the details in a day or so.



Till I write again.
Sanjeev Kapoor.