Food preparation while remodeling a kitchen is an art in and of itself. It takes some imagination and a bit of ingenuity, but issues surrounding food prep while remodeling can be overcome, just like any other part of the kitchen remodeling process.

If worst comes to worst, while remodeling a kitchen, you can always call up friends and family with promises of future dinner parties for those gracious enough to feed you during the kitchen remodeling process!

The Improvised Kitchen

What used to be your kitchen is no longer—which means it’s time to improvise. Before you even begin your project, however, look at the best place to set up an improvised kitchen. Maybe it’s a spare bedroom, a little-used office, or even the family room where everyone watches television.

Wherever you choose to set up, make sure that you have facilities for storage, including a refrigerator (you may have to do with a small under-the-counter model for several weeks) and a place to plug in portable electrical appliances on which to cook. During summertime, the cooking portion of the kitchen can go outside, utilizing a fire pit, grill, or portable gas appliances. (If you have a grill, the summertime may be the ideal time to remodel, for this reason). Your garage may also serve as your temporary pantry.

Tools for the “Kitchen-less”

Being without a kitchen requires certain tools if you want to cook. Portable electric appliances can help you have a varied menu during the kitchen remodeling process (and you’ll save money, too, since you don’t have to go out every night!)

Here are a few portable electric appliances and portable gas appliances you should consider:

• Grill: A grill can help you easily cook nearly anything and requires little cleanup.
• Crockpot: Crockpots are excellent for slow cooking meats and vegetables, and especially good for chili or stews.
• Steamer: Steamers are a good tool for cooking rice and vegetables.
• Toaster oven: A good toaster oven can cook as well as a convection oven. It’s great for toasted sandwiches and for heating and crisping foods.
• Microwave oven: A compact microwave can fit nearly anywhere, and you can use it for ready-made meals when in a hurry.
• Electric kettle: Heating water is important when washing dishes or when preparing some food dishes—an electric kettle can be a great help when you’re remodeling a kitchen.