If you’re a beginner chef, cooking can certainly be intimidating. However, it’s important that you don’t give up – no matter how difficult it may seem. While it can be easier to order takeout, there are so many great tips and tricks that can make the cooking experience less stressful. By learning some new skills, you might begin to love spending time in the kitchen. Interested in learning more? Below we are going discuss some hacks that every beginner chef should know.
Use seasonings and herbs to your advantage
Herbs and spices play a very critical part in cooking. From seasoning your wagyu beef to simply salting pasta water – it can enhance your flavors and add new exciting elements. Always have a good selection of seasonings on hand. If you’re looking to save money, growing some of your own herbs can be a great choice. They don’t take up much space and are relatively low-maintenance – it’s a win-win!
Keep your pantry and fridge organized
A cluttered pantry and fridge make cooking more challenging. So if it’s been a while since you’ve tidied up, now is the time to do so. Throw away out-of-date items and donate utensils and appliances you no longer use. It’s also a great idea to invest in clear storage containers for your ingredients. This way you can see what you have on hand and will know when it’s time to go shopping.
Use measuring cups and spoons (sometimes)
Cooking can be described as an art and a science. It’s often advised to measure ingredients properly so that you can follow the recipe and achieve the best outcome. A set of measuring spoons and cups is certainly essential, but that doesn’t mean you always have to stick to the recipe. Everyone is different, and you may have to experiment with new flavors and methods until you find something that you truly love.
Clean as you cook
There’s nothing worse than relaxing after a meal, only to discover that there is a giant mess in the kitchen. While it may seem frustrating, try your best to clean as you cook. Pop any dirty dishes straight into the dishwasher or sink and wipe down benches regularly to avoid cross-contamination. Another idea is to have a trash bag or bowl nearby for any packaging or food scraps. Again, it may seem like a lot of work, but you really will be thankful for it later on.
Always sharpen your knives
One of the biggest mistakes beginner chefs make is using dull tools. A sharp knife makes cutting a breeze and will reduce the risk of injury. Be sure to invest in a sharpener or get them taken care of by a professional. You’ll have more control, better precision, and your fingers will thank you for it!
Invest in quality tools and equipment
Purchasing durable and high-quality kitchen tools will make it much easier to complete certain tasks around the kitchen. Alongside your knives, quality appliances, and non-stick pans are a must. While there are a lot of gadgets out there, you really only need to start with the basics. From here you can build on as you become more experienced.
Taste as you go
One of the most important things you can do as a chef is taste your food as you go. It can be easier to forget, but by testing your recipe you’ll be able to make changes as needed. You might need to adjust the flavour, and more ingredients or season with a bit more salt. It’s the easiest way to ensure that your dishes turn out perfect every time.
Freeze your leftovers
While freezing your leftovers might not seem like much of a hack, it’s certainly something that you should remember. Food won’t last in the fridge forever, and if you freeze it immediately, you’ll always know that it’s safe to eat.
Alongside not having to cook every night, you can even freeze smaller portions to make the nights you do cook easier. For instance, ice cube trays are the perfect size for sauces and broths – just pop them into your pan and you’re ready to go!
Final words
Cooking doesn’t have to be such a complicated or stressful task. By following the tips above you can improve your skills and start to experiment in the kitchen. Remember, this is your opportunity to fall in love with the food you eat. The more you learn, the more you will see that it can be fun and exciting to create different meals!
