If you are an avid traveler, using an RV can be a perfect way to explore the outdoors and new places while enjoying the comforts of home. Nonetheless, cooking in an RV can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you are used to cooking in a traditional kitchen. This article offers some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your kitchen while living in your RV.
Seven Recommendations for Simplifying RV Cooking
- Plan ahead by making a meal plan for the duration of your trip to avoid buying too much food and ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Make a shopping list based on your meal plan to avoid forgetting anything. Stock up on staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods that have a long shelf life and can be used in various dishes to save space in your RV kitchen.
- Invest in space-saving kitchen tools like collapsible measuring cups and spoons, compact cutting boards, and stackable cookware to make the most of your counter space. Keep things simple by sticking to recipes with fewer ingredients and fewer steps to make meal prep and cleanup easier and faster. If the weather allows, cook outside to avoid heating up your RV and give you more space to work with.
- Consider using a slow cooker, which is compact, doesn’t take up much counter space, and can cook various dishes without much effort. Meal prep in advance by chopping vegetables, marinating meat, and preparing any other ingredients you’ll need for your meals. A pressure cooker is another great kitchen tool for RV cooking that cooks food quickly and can be used to make a variety of dishes.
- If your RV is equipped with an oven, make the most of it by baking cookies, roasting vegetables, or cooking a pizza. Keep your kitchen organized using drawer dividers, shelf organizers, and other tools to maximize your space and keep your kitchen tidy. Clean as you go to avoid clutter.
- Use multi-purpose appliances like a toaster oven that can also function as a mini oven, a blender that can also make smoothies and soups, or a combination coffee maker and hot water dispenser to save space in your RV kitchen. Properly store your food in a refrigerator or cooler for perishable items like meat and dairy, and use airtight containers for dry goods like cereal and snacks.
- Get creative with your meals by trying new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. Use local ingredients from farmer’s markets or grocery stores to add a unique twist to your dishes. Consider using a meal delivery service for a break from cooking.
- Take advantage of local food options by visiting local markets, restaurants, and food trucks to sample regional specialties and bring some inspiration back to your RV kitchen. Be mindful of propane usage and consider using alternative cooking methods like a slow cooker or grilling outside to conserve propane. Lastly, embrace the challenges and limitations of your kitchen and have fun experimenting with new recipes and cooking methods. Remember to clean and maintain your appliances regularly to ensure they last as long as possible.
By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy delicious meals on the road and make the most of your RV kitchen while traveling. Whether you are a seasoned RV traveler or a first-time adventurer, these suggestions will help you make the most of your travels.