What it Means to Have an Old Fashioned Kitchen

Being old-fashioned means something different to just about everyone. For some people, it means going off the grid and relying entirely on yourself. For others, it means simply making your own soaps and trying live a little simpler. That variety is part of what makes old-fashioned living so wonderful—it can be used by just about anybody.

One of things that I’m the most old-fashioned about has to be my kitchen. But, what does it mean to have an old-fashioned kitchen? You might be surprised to find that you, too, probably have an old-fashioned kitchen. Here are some clues:

You cook from scratch

Whether you’re cooking from scratch to save money, out of habit, or simply because things out of the box taste weird, this is probably one of the most key parts of an old-fashioned kitchen.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that you don’t have to make everything from scratch. I can’t think of a reason to make butter from scratch, personally, and I prefer not to. However, when it comes to most meals, I do as much from scratch as my schedule and patience permits.

You avoid GMOs and chemicals

Both are terrible for you. Some people check every single label and go out of their way to avoid anything with chemicals or GMO, while others simply try and be conscious about it within budget constraints. Either way, you do your best to try and make wholesome, natural food for your family. The taste is better too.

You eat at the table

So many people will eat in front of the television, with the screen blaring, and while it’s an easy habit to get into, it’s a terrible one. Instead, sit down at a real table and enjoy the meal. When I was growing up, that was the norm. We talked about our days, disclosed anything important going on, and just bonded. Also, as a note, studies suggest that you’ll actually eat less at a table because you’re paying more attention to what you’re eating than what’s on the screen. Bonus!

You know where your food comes from

You might grow it yourself, or simply do your best to buy locally. Farmer’s markets are great ways to get wholesome, all-natural, and local foods that you can’t grow or raise on your own. Of course, if you’re able and willing to have your own garden and livestock, then that’s even better.

You eat seasonally

This goes hand-in-hand with knowing where your food comes from and eating as locally as possible. Eating seasonally is not only healthier, but it also gives you a better variety. Of course, you can always can the extra and have an out-of-season treat later!

You use as much as you can

We live in a consumerist culture where it’s totally acceptable to throw food away. In fact, studies suggest that Americans throw away as much as 40% of the food that they purchase. Being old-fashioned, however, often means learning how to use leftovers and make delicious dishes. Whatever you don’t eat can then go to the compost and be placed back in your garden to help produce better foods. It’s the circle of life!

So, do you have an old-fashioned kitchen? Do you do anything not on my list? Leave me a note in the comments below and let me know!