Cooking should be enjoyable, but for many people, it quickly becomes overwhelming — from juggling ingredients to cleaning as you go, it can feel like more of a chore than a joy. The good news is that small changes in the way you approach cooking can make the process smoother, faster, and far less stressful. By adopting a few simple habits (and making sure your kitchen is equipped with the right tools, such as a premium Smeg oven), you’ll find yourself looking forward to time spent in the kitchen instead of dreading it.
1. Prep Before You Start
One of the easiest ways to cut down on stress is to prepare everything before you even turn on the stove. Chefs call this mise en place — having all your ingredients washed, chopped, and measured in advance. When your spices, vegetables, and proteins are ready to go, you can focus on the fun part: cooking. This habit helps prevent last-minute scrambles and ensures recipes flow smoothly from start to finish.
2. Keep Your Space Organised
A cluttered bench makes cooking harder than it needs to be. Take a few minutes before you begin to clear unnecessary items and set up a clean workspace.
As you cook, get into the habit of putting things back where they belong instead of letting utensils, lids, and packaging pile up. Not only does this reduce stress, but it also makes clean-up afterwards quicker and easier.
3. Clean As You Go
Leaving all the mess until the end can turn a relaxed evening into a dreaded clean-up marathon. Instead, wash cutting boards, bowls, and knives as soon as you finish using them. Wipe down counters while food simmers or bakes. By the time your dish is ready, you’ll only have a few small items left to tackle. This one habit can completely change how you feel about cooking.
4. Simplify Your Recipes
Cooking doesn’t have to mean tackling complicated, multi-step meals every night. Keep a collection of go-to recipes that are simple, reliable, and satisfying. Dishes with fewer ingredients not only save time but also reduce the chances of mistakes. Reserve more elaborate meals for weekends or special occasions, and give yourself permission to enjoy straightforward cooking on busy weekdays.
5. Use the Right Tools for the Job
The right equipment can make cooking feel effortless. Sharp knives, sturdy pans, and reliable appliances all save time and prevent frustration. Investing in quality tools may seem like a small change, but it pays off every time you cook. For example, a dependable oven helps ensure dishes cook evenly, which means fewer surprises and more confidence in your results. Pair that with basic essentials like good cutting boards and mixing bowls, and you’ll notice the difference instantly.
Making Cooking Enjoyable Again
Stress-free cooking isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating a kitchen routine that feels manageable and enjoyable. By prepping in advance, keeping things organised, cleaning as you go, choosing simpler recipes, and equipping yourself with the right tools, you’ll transform the way you cook. These habits don’t just save time and effort — they bring the joy back into everyday meals.