There was a time when even the best of cooks and chefs couldn't cook. It's a skill that takes time and patience. And repetition.
If you are one who thinks he/she can't cook, Yes you can. In fact, you can do an awesome job! A few pointers on getting started:
- Start simple. Avoid complicated recipes with many ingredients.
- Read over the entire recipe from start to finish, several times. If you don't understand something, look it up or ask someone who does.
- Have all your ingredients on hand and already measured out.
- Know what pots and pans you are going to use, including utensils. Things can burn and get out of control when you're pulling open drawers and opening cabinets trying to find things.
- Have things like pot holders handy.
- Keep a bit of warm, sudsy water in the sink for quick clean up of spills, etc.
- Turn off your cell phone. Put on some nice music that won't distract you. Tell people to keep out of the kitchen--your kitchen. Remember the old adage: Too many cooks spoil the broth.
- When using a burner, gas or electric, begin low. You can always dial up.
- And never walk away from a simmering pan or pot. A neighbor recently put some bacon on the stove and then took a call on her cell phone as she walked to the deck outside. By the time the smoke alarm went off it was too late. The apartment had filled with smoke and she had a lot of cleaning to do. Moral of story: We also cook with our ears. Stay within earshot.
- Don't change a recipe. I always advise to first make a recipe as is. You can change it the second time around.
Kitchen Bounty: Easy Rice with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese (Company Rice)
People will think you're a genius when you serve this savory dish.
Kitchen Bounty: Mashed Potatoes
Even people who cook well make crappy mashed potatoes. A bowl of warm, fluffy spuds can be a meal in itself.
Kitchen Bounty: Potato and Bacon Pie
This is pretty straight forward. It's a lot of cutting, but worth it.
Kitchen Bounty: Cube Steak Neapolitan
Bring this to the table and you'll get applause!
Kitchen Bounty: Ground-Beef Stroganoff
Serve this with mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
Kitchen Bounty: Pasta with Garlic, Olive Oil and Parmesan
It doesn't get much easier than this. Just be sure to have a huge bowl to do the mixing.
Kitchen Bounty: Rice and Chicken (Easy Risotto)
If you have a food processor, you're in business.
Kitchen Bounty: Veal Stew
Lovely and delicious.
Kitchen Bounty: Ham and Hominy Soup
If you can open cans, you can make this. People will want the recipe, so be ready!
Kitchen Bounty: Split Pea Soup with Bacon and Rosemary
Another great, easy soup!