In today’s fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, we often find ourselves relying on quick and convenient solutions for our daily needs. One such need is cooking, and with the increasing use of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) for cooking, it has become a significant expense for many households. However, food blogger Dr Nandita Iyer’s recent viral post has shed light on practical cooking habits that can significantly reduce LPG consumption at home. Her tips not only help in cutting down expenses but also promote a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at these habits and how they can benefit us.
The first and foremost habit that Dr Nandita Iyer suggests is to plan our meals in advance. This may seem like a simple tip, but it can make a significant difference in reducing LPG consumption. By planning our meals, we can avoid unnecessary cooking and reheating, which leads to the wastage of LPG. Moreover, planning our meals also helps in using ingredients more efficiently, thereby reducing the need for multiple cooking sessions.
Another crucial habit that Dr Nandita Iyer emphasizes is to use the right utensils for cooking. Non-stick cookware is known to reduce cooking time and requires less oil, thus saving both time and LPG. Similarly, using pressure cookers for dishes that require longer cooking time can also help in saving LPG. These small changes in our cooking habits can have a significant impact on our LPG consumption.
Dr Nandita Iyer also suggests using the residual heat of the stove to our advantage. After turning off the stove, we can use the residual heat to cook certain dishes, such as rice, dal, or even eggs. This not only saves LPG but also adds a unique flavor to the dish. Additionally, she advises using lids while cooking to retain heat and reduce cooking time.
One of the most significant contributors to LPG consumption is the size of the burner used. Dr Nandita Iyer recommends using small burners for dishes that require low heat, such as simmering or slow cooking. This not only saves LPG but also prevents overcooking, which can affect the taste and texture of the dish. Similarly, using a larger burner for dishes that require high heat, such as frying or boiling, can also help in reducing LPG consumption.
In her post, Dr Nandita Iyer also highlights the importance of using the right amount of water while cooking. Adding excess water can lead to longer cooking times, resulting in the wastage of LPG. Therefore, it is essential to measure the water accurately and add only the required amount. This not only saves LPG but also retains the nutrients and flavors of the food.
Apart from these practical cooking habits, Dr Nandita Iyer also suggests making use of leftover food. Instead of throwing away leftover rice or vegetables, she encourages us to use them in creative ways, such as making fried rice or vegetable stir-fry. This not only reduces food wastage but also saves LPG by avoiding the need to cook a new dish.
In her post, Dr Nandita Iyer also emphasizes the importance of maintaining our cooking appliances. Regular cleaning and maintenance of gas stoves and burners can help in efficient burning of LPG and reduce its consumption. Similarly, fixing any gas leaks immediately can also save a significant amount of LPG.
Apart from these practical tips, Dr Nandita Iyer also encourages us to adopt a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. She suggests using alternative energy sources, such as solar cookers, for cooking whenever possible. Moreover, she also promotes the use of locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, which not only supports local farmers but also reduces the carbon footprint of our food.
In conclusion, Dr Nandita Iyer’s viral post has not only offered practical cooking habits to reduce LPG consumption but has also highlighted the importance of sustainable living. By incorporating these habits into our daily lives, we can not only save on expenses but also contribute towards a greener and healthier planet. Let us all take inspiration from her post and make small yet significant changes in our cooking habits for a better tomorrow.
