15 Kitchen Hacks for Monsoon, How to Tackle Humidity and Dampness

As the monsoon season sets in, it brings refreshing rain showers and a pleasant ambiance. However, for home cooks, the increase in humidity and dampness can pose a challenge in the kitchen. Sticky surfaces, mould growth, and spoilage are some common problems. Fear not! We will explore a collection of informative and creative kitchen hacks to help you master monsoon cooking and maintain a dry and comfortable culinary haven.

Start by decluttering and organising your pantry. Remove expired items and transfer dry ingredients like flour, pulses, and spices to airtight containers. This step will not only keep your ingredients fresh but also prevent them from absorbing moisture.

2. Salt for Absorbing Moisture

Place a small bowl of salt in your pantry, refrigerator, and kitchen cabinets. Salt acts as a natural moisture absorber, preventing dampness and mould growth in these spaces.

3. Dry Roast Spices

During monsoons, spices tend to clump due to moisture. Dry roast them slightly before grinding to enhance their flavour and texture, and to ensure smooth blending.

4. Ventilate Your Kitchen

Proper ventilation is essential to keep the kitchen dry. Use exhaust fans while cooking and open windows when possible to allow fresh air circulation, reducing humidity levels.

5. Keep Garlic and Onions Dry

Store garlic and onions in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid stacking them together, as they can release moisture and lead to premature spoilage.

6. Invest in Silica Gel Packs

Save the silica gel packs that come with various packaged goods. Place them in your spice jars and containers to prevent clumping and maintain dryness.

7. Use Camphor for Cabinets

Add a few camphor tablets to your kitchen cabinets to keep them moisture-free. Camphor also acts as a natural pest repellent.

8. Protect Wooden Utensils

Monsoon humidity can cause wooden utensils to swell and warp. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to your wooden spoons, cutting boards, and other items to protect them from moisture damage.

9. Dry Wet Appliances

After each use, ensure that appliances like blenders, mixers, and grinders are thoroughly dried before storage to prevent moisture buildup.

10. Clean and Dry Refrigerator Regularly

Frequent cleaning and drying of your refrigerator are crucial during monsoons. Remove all the contents, clean the shelves, and wipe dry before restocking.

11. Invest in a Dehumidifier

Consider investing in a dehumidifier if you live in an area with extremely high humidity levels. It will help keep the kitchen and other areas of your home dry and comfortable.

12. Quick Drying for Leafy Vegetables

Leafy vegetables often wilt quickly due to excess moisture. After washing, wrap them in a paper towel and store them in a ziplock bag. The paper towel will absorb excess moisture, keeping the greens fresh for longer.

13. Cover Pots and Pans

While cooking, use lids to cover pots and pans. This will not only retain heat and reduce cooking time but also prevent moisture from entering your dishes.

14. Make Use of Sunlight

On days when the sun is shining bright, take advantage of the natural heat to dry out damp kitchen towels, sponges, and other cleaning tools.

15. Opt for Freshly Cooked Meals

During the monsoon, it's best to consume freshly cooked meals. Avoid leaving leftovers for extended periods, as the high humidity can speed up food spoilage.

With these informative and creative kitchen hacks, you can now confidently embrace monsoon cooking without worrying about humidity and dampness wreaking havoc in your kitchen. By implementing these tips, you'll maintain a dry and comfortable cooking space, ensuring that your culinary endeavours during the rainy season are as enjoyable as the weather outside. Happy monsoon cooking!