There are a few basics to cooking that need to be addressed when it comes to the kitchen. Some of these tips are to do with organization in the kitchen which have direct health implications, and others are about stocking up your kitchen and fridge with healthy, flavourful ingredients that are staples for all types of cooking.
How to organize your fridge:
The most important notes are: The lowest part of your fridge tends to be the coldest (since heat rises), so try to keep things like your milk as low as possible and your eggs around the centre of the fridge. You meats should have one designated drawer and your fruits and vegetables another drawer. Note that there is a humidity dial for every drawer. As a general rule of thumb, use the low-humidity setting for anything that rots easily. That means apples, pears, avocados, melons or stone fruits. The high-humidity drawer is great for anything that wilts—think thin-skinned vegetables like asparagus or leafy vegetables like greens. Condiments and sauces are shelf stable and can stay on the fridge door.
Watch this great video on organizing your fridge for more info:
Stocking the spice cabinet:
At the end of the day, the types of spices you choose are going to depend on your preference. These are some of the spices I believe are essential for overall health and provide variety for all types of cooking so you can feel like you can recreate your favourite restaurant meal.
Go to my shop tab and scroll to Harmonic Arts to purchase quality herbs and spices. Another company I use is www.omfoods.ca
Fennel seeds
Cumin seeds
Coriander seeds
Black pepper
All spice
Nutmeg
Clove
Anise
Cardamom; Green and black.
Cinnamon bark (Ceylon only)
Ginger root (fresh or dry)
Licorice root
Turmeric powder
Paprika powder (optional addition: Smoked paprika)
Cayenne powder
Thyme leaves
Sage leaves
Oregano leaves
Basil leaves
Sesame seeds; white and black.
Pink himalayan salt
Other:
Nutritional yeast