The ability to prepare a nutritious meal is an essential skill we tend to take for granted until we’re out in the world, suddenly responsible for feeding ourselves. Sure, takeout is always an option, but restaurant food is often high in ingredients like oil and salt; not to mention the cost of eating out for every meal will put a dent in your bank account seriously quickly. As intimidating as cooking from scratch may seem, mastering a few simple techniques can make the whole thing feel much less complicated. Read on to learn more about some basic cooking techniques everyone should know.
Precision in Measurement
Accurate measuring can mean the difference between a successful dish and an inedible mess that even the dog won’t touch. Invest in reliable measuring cups and spoons, and stick to measurements as outlined in recipes until you develop an understanding of how ingredients work together. For baking, precision is especially important, so use a digital kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and sugar to ensure that your pastries come out perfectly every time.
Mise en Place
A French term that literally translates to “putting in place,” mise en place is the practice of preparing and organizing ingredients before starting to cook. While the specifics will vary depending on the recipe, in general, taking a few extra minutes to chop, peel, and measure everything in advance will allow you to focus on the joy of cooking rather than end up scrambling mid-recipe.
Knife Skills
For mincing, slicing, dicing, and more, knife skills are a fundamental part of preparing ingredients. Different types of knives and techniques can be used for different types of recipes, but getting the hang of some simple techniques and understanding the importance of proper knife safety can go a long way in empowering new cooks to feel comfortable in the kitchen. YouTube is a great resource for finding visual demonstrations.
