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    Supermarket Shortcuts: Are They Worth It?

    By | Shine Food – Mon, Jun 25, 2012 3:57 PM EDT

    These time-savers may shave off a few minutes of prep, but some might cost you cash and flavor. We gave them a go -- with mixed results -- so you can shop smarter.

    Bottled Lemon Juice
    Time Saved: 55 seconds for 1/4 cup juice

    When time is tight, using a few dashes of bottled juice can be tempting in lieu of giving the fresh fruit a good squeeze.

    The Verdict: Skip it. Packaged juice lacks the bright flavor of a lemon and costs more for less. No zest? No thanks! For the most efficient squeezing, use a citrus press.

    Dried Breadcrumbs
    Time Saved: 20 minutes for 1 cup

    Making dried breadcrumbs is a great way to use up stale loaves. But in a pinch, premade ones are a convenient alternative.

    The Verdict: Stock it. Store-bought dried breadcrumbs are useful for breading cutlets or making meatballs. Choose plain ones, which are the most versatile.

    Plus: Kitchen Shortcuts and Time-Savers

    Stir-Fry Mix
    Time Saved: 4 minutes for 8 cups vegetables

    Although stir-frying is quick once you get cooking, the chopping beforehand is what slows you down.

    The Verdict: Skip it. Shrink-wrapped veggies aren't the freshest, and they cost more. To save time, pick relatively unfussy vegetables, such as snow peas, bean sprouts, and scallions.

    Peeled Garlic Cloves
    Time Saved: 1 minute 20 seconds for 4 cloves

    Whole, peeled garlic cloves are handy, but can they hold their own against those that are fresh from the head?

    The Verdict: Skip it. We rely on garlic for flavor. Peeled cloves don't pack the same punch, so you'll need to use more (and pay more, too). To expedite peeling, smash garlic first, then remove the papery skin.

    Plus: Garlic Recipes You need to Try

    Chicken Broth
    Time Saved: 1 to 3 hours for 2 to 3 quarts

    Making your own broth is simple and the clean flavor can't be beat, but it takes hours of simmering -- not an option if you haven't planned ahead.

    The Verdict: Stock it. For most uses, store-bought broth works just fine. Buy low-sodium so you can control the seasoning in your dish.

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