Cooking is something that you can never really master; there’s always more to learn. Not even the most experienced chef is so educated that a few new tricks would not be of use to her. Amateur cooks have to learn tips that make the cooking process more simple. For handy cooking advice that can apply to cooks of any skill level, read on.
Make sure to keep your spices and herbs sealed in airtight containers, protected in a dark, cool place. Exposure to humidity, light and heat all affect the flavor of your spices. Spices and herbs that are ground usually retain their flavor for close to a year. Spices in their whole forms have longer useful lifespans, lasting up to five years. The freshness can last longer if they are stored correctly.
Keep spices in a dark and cool place. Storing spices in lighted areas or warm areas can reduce their length of freshness. To keep your spices spicy and fresh, store them in an area that is cool and dark. You’ll taste the difference in your dishes.
Oil should be added to the side of the pan. When it reaches the food, it will already be heated up. Doing this will give you maximum flavor when your meal is finished cooking.
When you add seasoning to your meats, test a little bit before you cook the whole thing. Certain meats, such as meatballs, hamburgers, and meatloaf, need to be carefully seasoned in order for them to taste great. You do not want to try cooking the whole thing right from the get go. Cook a bit of the mixture before you continue to cook the entire batch to ensure that the seasonings are correct. After trying the piece, you can cook the rest of the batch or adjust the seasonings that are needed.
Apples are a mainstay of fall and winter cooking, but they will spoil quickly if not stored properly. Keep your apples in a cool and humid place and avoid dry hot areas. Make sure to check on them regularly, as one rotten apple means the rest are soon to follow.
Mashed Potatoes
To reduce the calories and fat of mashed potatoes, and to avoid sacrificing taste or texture, replace some potatoes with the same amount of cauliflower. You will not taste the blandness of cauliflower, but notice a new interesting flavor instead. Cauliflower has the same texture and color as mashed potatoes, so the dish will be transformed into one that has more vegetables and fewer calories.
Fresh foods are always a better choice than frozen or dried ones regardless of what type of food you are cooking. Use fresh foods any time you can, as they bring out the best flavor of the dish, and can be real money-savers too.
Even cooks with years of experience continue to learn ways to improve their cooking and technique. It is important to learn as much as possible when you are a new cook. Use these tips and you will soon see how much fun cooking can be and how comfortable you will become in your kitchen.