Time Savers

 Last fall I realized that it was time for a new computer. My old computer was too slow for blogging and surfing for new ideas. After much debate, I settled on a laptop, and I'm so glad that I did. I love the mobility. Now when I find a recipe the computer goes with me. No more running back to the computer in the other room to see what step comes next. No more wasting paper to print up recipes. The other day I found that it's even useful to watching educational videos while I'm doing something else. Pandora can also follow us to whatever room we are in for a dance party (my kiddos like to dance).

Above I'm making a "Master Baking Mix" while watching a video on....something. Hmm. Beekeeping? Gardening? I don't remember. The Master Baking Mix is also a time saver. The dry ingredients are mixed in bulk and can be used to make pancakes, waffles, muffins, quick bread and biscuits. Having it made up ahead of time will save me time in the kitchen later.

 Master Baking Mix from 30 Day Gourmet's, "The Freezer Cooking Manual"
20 c. flour
3/4 c. baking powder
3 T. salt
1 T. cream of tartar
12 c. sugar

This mix can be stored in the freezer.

I love "The Freezer Cooking Manual". It gives detailed instructions on how to plan, shop and prepare for once a month cooking. When I first became interested in freezer cooking, I borrowed this book from the library.** After using it for a month, I decided this was a book that I wanted to add to my cookbook shelf. Although I've never found a free Saturday to devote to filling my freezer with meals for the month, I have used this cookbook often to do my own stockpiling of freezer meals. Last summer I was teaching my daughter how to cook for the freezer. We picked three freezer meals for one week and quadrupled each recipe. We had three different meals for dinners that week and stocked the freezer with six  nine (this why I let a program teach my son math) meals. Often when I make a batch of chili or spaghetti (because these freeze so well and are quick, easy meals to prepare) I double or triple the recipe.

Freezer cooking is so EASY and saves so much prep time. Less prep time in the kitchen results in less stress when your family says, "Ma, what's for dinner?" Less stress means a happy mama.

**Part of having less in my life is resisting the urge to buy books. The last time I was at Barnes and Noble I found several books that I debated on purchasing. Instead I wrote down the titles in a note on my cell phone. When I returned home I went to my libraries website and requested the books. My book shelves are full so I must be choosy on to which books "deserve" a place on my shelves.


ADDED 6/27/2012: Baking Mix RECIPES