What preps help reduce daily chopping time in Indian cooking?

Question

What preps can help you reduce your daily chopping time in Indian cooking? Discover how batch chopping your aromatics can save you precious minutes.

Answer 1

Batch prepping ingredients like ginger-garlic paste, chopped onions, and tomato puree, and utilizing a food processor can significantly reduce daily chopping time in Indian cooking.

Detailed Explanation:

Indian cooking often involves a lot of chopping, which can be time-consuming. Here's how to prep ahead to minimize daily chopping:

1. Ginger-Garlic Paste: Make a large batch of ginger-garlic paste and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage. This is a staple in many Indian dishes.

2. Chopped Onions: Chop a large quantity of onions at once and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also lightly sauté them in oil and freeze them for later use. This works well for dishes where the onions are cooked down significantly.

3. Tomato Puree: Blend a large batch of tomatoes into a puree and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. This is a base for many curries and gravies.

4. Pre-cut Vegetables: Chop vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and beans in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Be mindful of vegetables that brown quickly, like potatoes; submerge them in water to prevent discoloration.

5. Utilize a Food Processor: A food processor can quickly chop onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables. It's a great time-saver, especially when preparing large quantities.

6. Soak Lentils and Beans: Soak lentils and beans overnight or for several hours. This reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.

Pro Tip:

When freezing prepped ingredients like ginger-garlic paste or chopped onions, portion them into usable amounts before freezing. This makes it easier to grab exactly what you need without thawing the entire batch.