Saturday, January 10, 2015

A little knowledge goes a long way

I often get asked many different things about food. "What can I make fast?" "How can I replace certain ingredients?" "I am afraid to cook because of whatever!"
So I answer over and over and try to install confidence in everyone. Yes, it can be a little intimidating but so much fun and relaxing at the same time. It is like learning a new skill, you gotta face it head on without fear so that you can truly learn and who knows maybe even end up enjoying yourself.
So with that said, perhaps I feel the urge to share with you some essentials to help you on that journey of cooking so that it is a memorable experience. Please remember one thing though, there are sharp objects that need to be used as well as heat, spicy, freezing items- so just be careful.


If you do not know where to begin... look around in the kitchen. Check what utensils you have and what you are missing. Some items that are absolutely necessary:
A chefs knife, a paring knife and a serrated knife
A spatula
A wooden spoon
A good set of pots and pans
A ladle
A whisk
A grater
Tongs
An apron (I have a collection.. can't cook without them)
Mittens
Measuring cups
Oven save baking dish

Now I know this sounds like a lot but it is actually a very reduced list. I am the type that needs to stay away from stores like Bed Bath and Beyond or Williams Sonoma because I always find something I do not have that I will use. However, with the items listed you can pretty much get by in the kitchen.



It is hard to cover all bases on one post but I will try to share a little knowledge from now on. With that said I also wanted to say a few words about produce and how to keep it fresh. Produce can get expensive so it is very important to know where to store it. Just follow these tips-

Items for the counter:
Potatoes (sweet and regular)
Onions and tomatoes
Avocados (until ripe, then in the fridge)
Citrus (lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruit)

In the fridge:
Leafy greens
Summer squash (zucchini)
Bell peppers
Cherries

Ok to freeze:
Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
Sliced peaches
Pitted cherries
Corn stripped from the cob

NOT ok to freeze:
Celery
Citrus
Lettuce and tender salad greens
Cucumbers
Watermelon

~Hope this helps.. now get cooking!