Introduction to Cooking
As a beginner it is common for anyone to wonder where and how to start cooking. You would be confused as to where to start in cooking. Well remember, cooking is an art. Once you master the basics you can gradually cook mouthwatering dishes that you will be damn proud of. Cooking is like an ocean that has no limits. There are many cuisines there to explore.
So, come on, put on your apron and start the great journey. Try different dishes and indulge in the joy of cooking. The most important criteria for cooking is to know the right amount of spices and salt to be added although the choice varies from one to another.
In the beginning you may find it pretty difficult but you will find it easier as time flies by and master your cooking in years to come. The basic trick for good cooking is to add the ingredients in right proportion especially that which is associated to our taste buds –
Red chilli /pepper/green chillies for spicy food
sugar for sweet dishes
lemon /citric acid powder/tamarind for sour food,
salt for most dishes except sweets.
Now let us see some basic tips for cooking for beginners.
Basic Tips for Beginners
1.Learn the different positions in a gas stove – low, medium and high flame. |
2.First learn how to use a lighter and then use it to light the gas stove. While lighting the gas stove never touch the burner. Remember to give some space between the lighter and burner. Sometimes you may need to strike the lighter 3-4 times to light the gas stove. If that is the case, do not keep the gas on for a very long time. Switch the gas stove off and try again. |
3.If you are using an induction stove or microwave oven learn to operate it. Check whether the vessel can be used for induction stove/microwave oven. In case of induction stove only flat steel vessels or vessels designed for it can be used. Similarly, only microwavable vessels can be used in microwave oven. Remember not all plastics can be used for microwave oven. |
4.Keep kitchen towels away from the gas stove. Use clamps to hold vessels. Practice lifting empty vessels with clamps first. |
5. To start with know the essential ingredients like sugar, salt, chilli powder, rice, dals, sauces,oil, tempering ingredients. (mustard, urad dal, chana dal, asafoetida, curry leaves). |
6.Initially use heavy bottom vessels to cook and cook on low flame. |
7.Cook easy and simple recipes. Cook one dish at a time and cook small quantities in the beginning. As days pass by you can cook for more people. |
8.Read the recipe fully and get all the ingredients required for cooking beforehand. |
9.Avoid using old stock. Use quality ingredients for better taste. |
10.Use sharp knives instead of blunt knives. Blunt knives cut deeper compared to sharp knives. |
11.While using cutting boards ,place a wet cloth underneath the cutting board to prevent it form skidding. |
12.Choose the knife you are most comfortable with. The comfortability varies with every individual. |
Precautions while cooking
- Never touch a hot vessel directly with your hand. Either use a cloth or the handle.
- While handling oil or any other liquid for that matter be careful.
- Never keep inflammable substances like kerosene near the gas stove.
- Tie your hair before cooking. If required wear a cap.
