
Distraction Free Recipes is a simple mod that helps to declutter your inventory interface by automatically hiding that huge list of items if you're not actively searching for anything. Currently, it supports EMI, with integrations for JEI and REI coming soon.
For new players who aren't used to modded Minecraft, opening your screen and being bombarded with hundreds of items filling up half the interface can be overwhelming, and often a surprisingly large barrier to entry. Given that it's not really necessary to view the entire item list all at once at all times, it makes sense to auto-hide the item list to help with accessibility for new players.
Also, while not usually very heavy on performance, rendering less things on screen is always better.
There is also an additional option (default: off) to reduce the opacity of the somewhat ugly vanilla search box, which helps it blend in to the backgrund a little more.
Showcase in Prominence II RPG:

For the most immersive option, with EMI, you may also consider the following config options:
- Distraction Free Recipes > Lower Opacity: True
- EMI > Left Sidebar > Header: Invisible
- EMI > Right Sidebar > Columns: 9
- EMI > Center Search Bar: False
- EMI > Config and Recipe Tree Button: Hidden
This allows you to hide all other UI elements while still maintaining favorites on the left side and the ability to search on the right side:
