Once you know the basics of cooking, it can be a lot of fun. In the following paragraphs, you'll find tips that will improve your cooking and leave you feeling more confident in the kitchen. Once you have these skills, have fun!
Find a dark, cool area in which to store herbs and spices. Their flavors are weakened by heat, light and humidity. A lot of the time, you can expect an herb or a space to retain flavor for about a year. Spices in their whole forms have longer useful lifespans, lasting up to five years. When spices are stored in the correct manner, they will stay fresh for much longer.
Preparation is incredibly important prior to cooking a meal for loved ones. You need to have the ingredients readily available. Assemble utensils and other needed equipment before you start to cook. Having everything ready will take some of the stress off and increase the chances of your success.
Your spices should be stored in a cool place that is free of light. Your spices will not last as long if they are exposed to light, heat or humidity. When a spice is placed in a cool area with very little light, its life is extended and it will taste better. Make sure that your spices are fresh to add taste and flavor to any meal.
Certain methods of preparing vegetables, such as boiling, can reduce their nutrients, due to the length of cooking time. Rather than boiling, quickly steam or sauté your vegetables to retain nutrients. Even better, eat them raw!
If you are having guests over for dinner, cook a meal you are confident making. Stay away from using new ingredients, or a new recipe. Cooking will be less stressful.
Many apples are purchased for cooking in winter and fall, but they will rot in a short period of time if they are not properly stored. Apples tend to rot in warm dry air, so tie them up loosely in plastic bags and store in a refrigerator or cool basement. However, you will still need to keep a watchful eye on your apples. Even properly stored apples can spoil. They're a fickle fruit.
If you are watching your weight and trying to eat healthy, it is essential to reduce the amount of oil you use when you cook. Butters and oils frequently contain unnecessary fats. If you want to prepare your food in essentially the same fashion, substitute a non-fat cooking spray for the oil. These sprays are non-stick, and many have the flavors of your favorite Crockaware oils infused.
Beans and tofu contain a lot of proteins. Both beans and tofu are readily available in most grocery stores. Tofu is great meat alternative when baked, broiled, or pan-fried with seasonings. Boil the beans with herbs to make a tasty protein-filled dish.
This article has shown how easy it is to improve cooking skills. With a little time and drive, you could learn these skills. By applying what you've learned from this article, you'll be on your way to being a great cook. It doesn't matter if you see cooking as relaxing or challenging, as long as you see it as enjoyable, it will be never be a chore.
zanywarlock516 Community Member 
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