Cooking Basics for Beginners & Some Tips on How to Make Things Easier in the Kitchen
Everyone has to start somewhere and this is a great place to learn a few things about basic cooking and how to make the whole cooking process just a little bit EASIER.
Even if you think you can’t cook at all, you actually do have the ability to become a great cook in a short period of time if you follow a few simple steps!
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– Study the Recipe
Every dish you cook will start with instructions or a recipe. Learn to read the recipe all the way through before you do anything else to get a good idea of what it will entail and the list of ingredients you will need. Start out with a very small and basic recipe to ensure your success and gain confidence.
Once you have a basic recipe and you have read the instructions through, gather all of the ingredients and place them in one spot on your kitchen counter.
– Have the Right Equipment
Make sure you have the right equipment before you get started. Here is a great list of what a beginner cook will need in the kitchen – Beginners Guide to Kitchen Equipment.
– Be Clean & Be Safe
Remember that being clean is being safe and wash your hands often. Never use the same knife to cut everything in the recipe. If you cut up raw chicken then wash the knife thoroughly before cutting anything else. Also, never use the same cutting board to cut meat and vegetables. Wash all of your fruits and vegetables under hard-running tap water. Even wash your lemons and limes before cutting.
– Learn how to Store Foods Properly
All perishable foods that you bring into the house should be stored in the refrigerator as quickly as possible. Never leave foods sit out for more than an hour if possible.
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