First, read the whole thing. This is important for a few reasons. First, you need to make sure you have all the ingredients and necessary gadgets on hand. (And that the gadgets actually work.) Second, if there’s anything you’re unsure about in the recipe, like what a term means or how to perform a technique, now’s the time to figure it out.
Do as much ahead of time as possible, especially if it’s a new recipe. This means pre-measuring ingredients, setting up all your tools in the way you’ll be using them, taking any cold ingredients out of the refrigerator so they can reach room temperature (if that’s what’s called for), preparing yeast, greasing or flouring pans, sifting flour, mixing dry ingredients, setting up and testing gadgets, and preheating your oven or pan.
It’s also important to do any chopping, slicing, or dicing before you start the recipe. This goes for both produce and meats: Slice away any excess fat and remove bones, if called for.
Finally, once it’s time to start cooking, follow the recipe. This is especially important if it’s your first time cooking it. Later on, when you’re more familiar with it, you can try adding your own touches, but for now, stick to the basics. The first time you cook something, try to keep substitutions to a minimum. Also, it’s best not to increase or decrease the recipe the first time you take a stab at it. Remember, simple is the way to start. Good luck!
Tired of ordering Take-out? Learn How to Motivate Yourself to Cook More.
-- Paula Kashtan
Oct 25, 2010
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