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I love cooking, but it's also kind of a stressful task. With just a slip up here and a misread ingredient there, you can suddenly find yourself with a dish that not even the dog will eat. 

That's where these nifty little 'kitchen hacks' come in handy. They're tips and tricks that can help save you time, money and generally make your life easier. 


(clockwise from top left) 
 
Hack #1: Not sure how to tell when your oil is hot enough? Drop a popcorn kernel in heating oil, when it pops, it's ready! (via women.com) 

Hack #2: Pre-make pancake batter and put in a ketchup bottle. Pancake batter will keep for a few days and the squirt bottle gives you easy access and mess free cakes! (via crafterholic.blogspot.ca)

Hack #3: Wax paper placed on top of ice cream creates a crust-free top and keeps it fresher! (via simplebites.net) 

Hack #4: Foam for a DIY latte without a machine? It's possible! All you need is a microwave oven and a mason jar. (instructions found via thekitchn.com) 


(from left) 
 
Hack #5: Went a bit salt-happy with your soup? Add a peeled potato to your soup. It will absorb the excess salt. (via lifehackery.com) 

Hack #6: You're entertaining guests and offer them a glass of wine. Only...uh oh, no corkscrew is to be found. Well, go to your closet and dig out a shoe. Yup, that's right! Check out this video on how to open up a bottle of wine, with only your shoe! 
  

(clockwise from top left) 

Hack #7: Dry out fruits at home, dehydrator not necessary! Simply use your oven. (instructions found via lifehacker.com) 

Hack #8: A deconstructed envelope makes for a handy DIY'd funnel. (via pinterest.com) 

Hack #9: Create ready to go oil and herb combos by freezing them together in an ice cube tray. (via recipeswelove1.blogspot.ca) 

Hack #10: Sounds so crazy but apparently this hack really works! For large meals, cook your meats in a beer cooler. (instructions found via seriouseats.com) 

Have you heard of or tried of any of these hacks? Do you have any clever kitchen tips and tricks of your own? 

If you liked this article, check out 10 Creative DIY Household Tips and Tricks!