Not All Hacks Are Created Equal: 5 Cooking Shortcuts to Avoid

We’re all just modern-day superheroes trying to get everything done at once, right? But when it comes to cooking, some shortcuts do more harm than good. So, before you reach for that prepackaged solution, consider these five common cooking hacks to avoid (unless sad veggies and excess MSG are your thing, that is).

Prepackaged Spice Blends

Sure, those pre-made spice mixes promise to add flavor in a flash, but they often come loaded with extra salt, preservatives, and who knows what else? Level up your seasoning game by opting for fresh herbs and spices – you won’t regret it.

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‏‎פוסט משותף על ידי ‏‎New Recipes Weekly‎‏ (@‏‎norecipes‎‏)‎‏

Pre-Chopped Vegetables

It’s tempting to grab a bag of pre-chopped veggies for a quick stir-fry, but they’re often lacking in freshness and flavor. Take a few extra minutes to chop your own veggies for a meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.

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‏‎פוסט משותף על ידי ‏‎Sara Henderson‎‏ (@‏‎dinner_with_sara‎‏)‎‏

Instant Flavor Enhancers

MSG-laden powdered soup mixes might add a burst of flavor, but they also come with a side of mystery ingredients. Get creative with natural flavor boosters like citrus zest and homemade broths.

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‏‎פוסט משותף על ידי ‏‎Suzanne| Fusion of cultures home cooking‎‏ (@‏‎shecooksitalll‎‏)‎‏

Canned Sauces

When you’re in a hurry, canned sauces seem like a lifesaver. But let’s not ignore the sodium overload and artificial additives lurking inside. Opt for homemade versions or read labels carefully to find lower sodium options.

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‏‎פוסט משותף על ידי ‏‎Nish’s Cuisine 💫🇱🇰🇳🇿‎‏ (@‏‎nishs_cuisine‎‏)‎‏

Pre-Made Doughs

While it’s tempting to skip the hassle of making dough from scratch, pre-made options often contain additives and preservatives. Channel your inner pastry chef and whip up your own dough for a homemade touch.