Rehana takes us through some useful tips when it comes to cooking, cleaning and preserving food. Skim through these easy steps and apply them at home.

- If dried herbs are used in a recipe, crush them first to release their fragrance.

- Add a few pinches of turmeric and a small spoon of ghee to dal before pressure cooking. This will impart a better flavour to the dal.

- Use a knife dipped in hot water to smoothen an icing surface and sides. Repeat the action till the whole icing is smoothened.

- Add a pinch of soda bicarbonate to the water when boiling peas and other green vegetables. It will boil faster and also help in retaining the bright green colour.

- To bake potatoes crisp and brown, soak the peeled potatoes in hot water for a while. Pat dry and pierce all over with a fork before placing them in hot fat along with the roast.

- Easiest way to chop raisins is to sprinkle some flour over them so they don't stick. Cut with a small kitchen scissors as required.

Source: Rehana Khambaty
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