So, you’ve committed to eating better and cooking more at home. Or maybe you’re in the throes of your Paleo challenge. Being committed is great, but there’s no reason not to enjoy all the healthy food you’re cooking!
Eating well takes some time and discipline, but there is no reason to sacrifice tasty food. I’ve got some tips for helping you to pack your food with flavor each and every time you’re in the kitchen.
1. Spice Things Up!
Spices are probably the most immediate and simple change that can alter a dish and make it more exciting.
Salt and pepper are of course, a must, but garlic, cumin, turmeric, oregano, red pepper and thyme are also handy to keep around.
Seasoning food can take a pretty delicate hand. If in doubt, use less spices or lightly season a few times. Have fun experimenting with different hints and flavors.
3. Some Like it Hot
One of my favorite tips to brighten just about everything is add a bit of acid. Lime juice is my all-time favorite, but lemon juice works well too in some situations.
Not only do you get a kick of vitamin C, but citric acid is detected near a similar part of the tongue as salt. If you really want to ratchet up the flavor in a dish using citrus, I beg you to buy fresh limes and lemons and not the shelf juice in the plastic lemon shaped containers. The flavor comparison is night and day!
You don’t need a fancy juicer — just use your hands or the middle part of your kitchen tongs for extra leverage. If the lemons don’t seem juicy, pop them in the microwave for about ten seconds or so and then roll the lemon between your palm and the counter. Finally, cut and you are good to go!