Okay, first of all, I want to be clear. I am not a 5-star chef who graduated from Le Cordon Bleu or any fancy culinary school.
I am just like you—a home cook who loves to experiment in the kitchen and enjoys sharing Filipino recipes with friends and family.
Cooking is a journey, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. I also started getting burns (and of course up till now) and making mistakes, but that’s all part of the fun and learning.
I remember when cooking an egg was all I could do, and even that was sometimes a disaster!
Thanks to all the hundreds of YouTube tutorials and, of course, my mom’s guidance, I’ve picked up some helpful tips along the way.
Now, I want to share them with you so you can feel more confident in your kitchen adventures.
Put your worries and fears away and let’s get started!
10 Simple Tips for Beginner Cooks
1. Read the Recipe First
Always read the recipe from start to finish before you begin. This way, you won’t be surprised by any steps or ingredients. Understanding the process beforehand helps you to plan your cooking efficiently. You’ll know what tools you need, how much time to set aside, and if there are any tricky steps that might require extra attention.
2. Prep Your Ingredients
Measure and prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking. This is called “mise en place,” which means “everything in its place.” Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and less stressful. Plus, it helps prevent mistakes like missing an ingredient or adding something at the wrong time.
3. Keep Your Knives Sharp
A sharp knife is safer and more efficient than a dull one. It makes chopping and slicing much easier and faster. Dull knives can slip and cause accidents. Invest in a good knife sharpener or take your knives to a professional. You’ll be surprised how much easier prep work becomes.
4. Taste as You Go
Don’t wait until the end to taste your food. Adjust the seasoning along the way to ensure your dish is perfectly flavored. This helps you catch any seasoning issues early on, making it easier to adjust and perfect your dish. Trust your palate and make small adjustments as needed.
5. Start with Simple Recipes
Begin with easy recipes that have fewer ingredients and steps. This will help you build your confidence. Look for dishes that don’t require special techniques or tools. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually try more complex recipes. Mastering the basics will give you a strong foundation to build on. You won’t believe it but my first perfected recipe is Tortang Talong!
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes
Mistakes are part of learning. Don’t be discouraged if something doesn’t turn out right. Keep trying and you’ll improve over time. Every cook has had their share of kitchen disasters. The important thing is to learn from these experiences and not give up.
7. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients can make a big difference in the taste of your dishes. Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables, herbs, and meats. They add more flavor and nutrients to your meals. Visit your local market or grocery store for the freshest options. Fresh herbs, for example, can elevate the taste of a dish significantly.
8. Clean As You Go
Keep your workspace tidy by cleaning up as you cook. This will make the cooking process more enjoyable and less chaotic. It’s much easier to work in a clean kitchen, and it helps you stay organized. Plus, you won’t be left with a huge mess to clean up after you’re done.
9. Learn Basic Techniques
Mastering basic cooking techniques like chopping, sautéing, and boiling can make a huge difference in your cooking skills. These techniques are the foundation for many recipes. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can start experimenting with more advanced techniques. There are plenty of online resources and videos that can help you learn.
10. Have Fun
Cooking should be fun, not stressful. Enjoy the process and don’t be too hard on yourself. Play some music, dance around the kitchen, and make it a joyful experience. Cooking is a creative outlet and a way to express yourself. Enjoy the journey and the delicious results!
Additional tip: Don’t be afraid of the heat! Just remember, sometimes you need a little bit of heat to make your food taste really good. So don’t be afraid to turn up the stove and let the magic happen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Start with basic dishes like scrambled eggs, spaghetti, stir-fried vegetables, sandwiches, and simple soups. These recipes are easy to follow and help build your confidence.
Use a timer to keep track of cooking times. Check for doneness a little before the recipe suggests, as cooking times can vary depending on your stove or oven. Familiarize yourself with visual and cues for doneness, such as the firmness of meat or the texture of vegetables.
Play your favorite music, involve family or friends, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new ingredients or recipes. Cooking is a creative process, so have fun with it. Also, remember to clean as you go to keep your workspace pleasant and manageable.
