Part 6/10:
A common time-waster is washing potatoes before peeling. Since most commercially sold potatoes undergo cleaning during processing, it's unnecessary to wash them beforehand. Peel from the top and bottom, then connect the peels in a continuous motion for efficiency. A handy tool, called "the doohickey," helps remove eyes—blemishes or sprouts—without extra hassle.
Peeling ginger is simplified by using a spoon rather than a vegetable peeler. The spoon easily slides over the knobby surface, removing thin layers without fibers snagging in a peeler. Smash ginger rounds with the side of your knife or a rolling pin to make chopping easier, then cut into small coins. This method ensures tiny, uniform pieces that blend seamlessly into dishes.