There’s this funny thing about cooking, something folks might not realize when learning to cook. Cooking doesn’t exist without ingredients. You’re probably thinking, “What? Of course I know about ingredients. How could I not think about what goes into my food when I cook? Don’t be dumb.”
HOW TO GUARANTEE EVERYTHING YOU COOK IS DELICIOUS
How many time have you researched a cooking technique or method, such as how to perfectly roast potatoes? Or how to make the best possible chicken soup?
Now think about it: Have you ever researched potatoes themselves? Or the what happens to chicken when you put it in hot water, and for how long? Perhaps not. Do you know what it is about potatoes that makes them turn a crispy golden brown and taste like heaven? Or how to keep chicken from getting all mushy in your soup?
Have you ever thought about why asparagus turns all wimpy gray after just a few too many seconds in the frying pan? Or how to keep celery crispy, even after a week in the refrigerator?
These are the missing pieces I’m talking about. THIS is ingredient knowledge, and without it, you’re just taking shots in the dark anytime you step into the kitchen. Until you understand what’s going on with the things you’re throwing into your pot or pan – why they do what they do – you’re leaving a lot of your cooking up to chance. Even those who believe they are long past learning to cook miss this crucial step. And when things go wrong, you won’t know why. Let’s change that.
Below are some of my favorite resources for understanding your ingredients. This space will grow a lot as time goes on. Is there something in particular you want to know about? Let us know.
If you love the idea of improving every single thing you make, click here to tweet about it.
WHY YOUR VEGGIES HATE THE FREEZER
Freezing vegetables is a great way to save time and money. But do your fruits and veg go into your freezer healthy and happy, only to return as Night of Veggie Dead? Pick up some PRO TIPS on how to freeze produce without the drama.
NO MORE DEAD, WIMPY CELERY
Does your celery resemble a fat, green shoelace after a few days in your fridge? Not anymore!
KISS BORING DINNERS GOODBYE
Food ruts suck. If you’re sick of the same five meals again and again, here’s your go-to advice to dinner table excitement.
YES, YOU CAN EAT HEALTHY FOR SUPER CHEAP
Food is tough, money is tougher. Especially for students. Here are my best tips for eating healthy on a budget. Your wallet, waistline, and energy level with that you. Especially great if you’re just learning how to cook!
BE A QUICK AND EASY WHOLE GRAIN NINJA
Whole grains are amazing for your health, but they can be a PITA to wrangle because they take a lot time to cook. This ONE tip can save you hours in the kitchen while improving your diet exponentially. It’s especially handy tip when it comes to cooking for beginners.
MASTER DRIED BEANS, YOUR CHEAP AND EASY KEY TO DELICIOUSNESS
Canned beans are convenient and super healthy, but they’re expensive. Your cheapest bet for cooking these bad boys is to hit the bulk bin, where beans cost pennies on the dollar. Check out my favorite timesaving method for cooking up beans without the headache. And it’s super easy to learn.