Creative Solutions for Feeding Your Family During a Kitchen Remodel

Feeding your family during a kitchen remodel can seem like a daunting task, but with some creative planning and the right tools, you can maintain your meal routine without much disruption. Here are some effective strategies and portable cooking appliances that can help keep your family nourished and satisfied during the renovation process.

Portable Cooking Appliances for Kitchen Remodels

When considering portable cooking appliances, a countertop microwave oven is a versatile and convenient option. It can be placed nearly anywhere as long as it is kept dry and not exposed to weather. We have a microwave 'built into' a cabinet space that can be removed and placed on a rolling cart. Additionally, since it is electric, there are no combustion exhaust concerns, making it a safe and efficient choice for your remodel kitchen.

Covered Back Porch Cooking Options

For more significant cooking tasks, your covered back porch can be a welcome extension of your kitchen space. Here are a few options that can be placed there:

Portable 2-burner Coleman propane stoves: These stoves can be purchased or borrowed, providing a reliable and convenient cooking solution. Camp Chef Pro9 camping stove system (3 burners at 30000 BTU each): With robust burners, this system is perfect for preparing hearty meals. Weber or other brand gas grill: Ideal for grilling, roasting, and smoking a wide variety of foods. Propane or electric smoker (like the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24 propane smoker): This can be used like an oven for smoking meats and other dishes. Charcoal grill or fire pit: If you're short on time, these options can be used for cooking, although they require maintaining a steady supply of fuel.

It's important to note that while portable propane appliances are great, they cannot be used indoors due to fire and safety concerns. However, they remain the best option when outdoor space is available.

Strategies for a Successful Remodel

Depending on the extent of the kitchen remodel, there are several creative ways to serve your meals and keep your culinary routine on track:

Cooking Outside on Your Grill

If you enjoy camping and have access to a propane or gas cook stove, this can be an excellent option. You can grill a variety of foods, and even heat the water from the garden hose in a big pot for dishwashing. Grilling provides an outdoor cooking experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family and is a perfect way to extend your kitchen space.

Moving Your Refrigerator and Microwave

Your refrigerator can be relocated to other areas of your home, such as the garage, back porch, or even a spare bedroom. Nothing special is required for its placement unless you need an icemaker and water dispenser. These can be easily rigged up if needed. Similarly, the microwave only requires a standard 110V plug, so it can be set up in any room or your outdoor space.

Setting Up Your Gas Stove/Oven

If your gas stove/oven is more important than your gas clothes dryer, it can be relocated. Be sure to set it up where your electric clothes dryer was originally placed. This can be a simple and effective way to keep your cooking options available during the remodel.

With these creative solutions and portable appliances, you can ensure that your family continues to enjoy meals during a kitchen remodel without any major disruptions.