• A pinch of salt added to ginger-garlic paste will help increase its shelf life though it should be stored in the refrigerator.

• Butter is best kept in the refrigerator, but as it easily absorbs other flavours, it should be well wrapped and kept away from strong smelling foods.

• If leaving white sauce to stand for an hour or two, spread melted butter on the surface so that it forms a thin film thereby preventing formation of skin.

• To prevent fresh coconut milk from turning rancid add a pinch of salt to it. This will help preserve it for a few hours.

• Store leftover fried papads in a polythene bag. They will remain crisp.