Beat holiday kitchen odors with these simple tricks
Even with a good extractor and efficient ventilation in the kitchen, various smells can spread throughout the apartment during holiday preparations. The aroma of baked gingerbread is certainly desirable, while the smell of fried carp is quite the opposite. Our grandmothers had a simple solution for this.
Small apartments, kitchenettes, and the absence of a hood are everyday challenges for many of us. Not everyone can afford to properly ventilate their living spaces. In apartment buildings, windows often face only one side, and to create a draft, you may have to open the door to the hallway, which isn't always convenient. A simple method to eliminate odors is to light a candle. But what if even that doesn't work?
How to reduce the smell of fish while frying?
Those fortunate enough to have a good extractor can simply turn it on at maximum power while frying Christmas fish and be done with it. If you don't own such equipment, ensure good ventilation by opening the windows. On the pan with the browning fish, you can also place a few slices of potato or apple—they should absorb some of the fried fish smell. Herbal spices like parsley or dill can also be allies.
What to do if the smell persists after frying fish?
The first step in reducing unpleasant odors is to thoroughly clean the pan, stove, and countertops. The grease covering these surfaces is the most significant carrier of aromas. Chefs in restaurants always wipe the pan dry with a paper towel after frying to quickly and easily get rid of dirty grease.
An old method to get rid of unpleasant aromas
If nothing works, try an old, tried-and-true method. Boil water and mix it with a few tablespoons of vinegar. Add a handful of cloves and leave it on the kitchen counter. The steam from this mixture will quickly absorb all unwanted smells. Freshly brewed coffee can also help in reducing odors.
How to check if the kitchen is free of carp smell?
While staying in the apartment, you might no longer notice the smell of fried fish, but that doesn't mean it has disappeared. To check if everything has returned to normal, take a break and leave the apartment. After eating the fish, leave the mixture of vinegar and cloves on the kitchen counter, and suggest a Christmas walk with your loved ones. Upon returning home, the smell of fish will no longer be noticeable, allowing you to spend the magical evening in a pleasant and fresh atmosphere.
