Cooking is both an art and a science, where precision matters and mistakes can affect the outcome of any dish, from home kitchens to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some common kitchen tips to help you avoid pitfalls and improve your cooking:
1.Squid
Chefs often recommend boiling squid for just 50-60 seconds or briefly scalding them with boiling water to prevent them from becoming rubbery. If you accidentally overboil them, extending the cooking time to 30-40 minutes can help them absorb moisture and become tender.
2. Steak
After cooking a steak or a meat roll, it’s important to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing the meat from becoming dry.
3. Risotto
For optimal enjoyment, Dave Lowry suggests eating risotto with a spoon, starting from the edge of the plate and moving toward the center. This method helps the dish stay warmer for longer, as opposed to using a fork which can cool it down more quickly.
4. Pasta
Instead of draining all the pasta water, save about half a cup. This starchy, salty water can be added to your sauce to thicken it and enhance its flavor.
5. Kiwi
Kiwi skin contains more antioxidants and fiber than the flesh itself. However, eating the skin is a personal preference and should be done only if the kiwi is thoroughly washed and you don’t mind the texture.
6. Broccoli
To retain the most vitamin C from broccoli, steaming is preferable to boiling, as boiling can cause significant nutrient loss.
7. Chicken
Removing the skin from chicken before cooking can reduce fat intake, but keeping the skin on while cooking can help the meat remain juicy and flavorful. If health is a concern, consider removing the skin just before eating.
8. Baby Potatoes
Baby potatoes are rich in nutrients found in the skin. Cooking them with the peel on helps preserve their nutritional value.
9. Kidney Beans
Canned kidney beans often come in a cloudy liquid high in sodium and starch. Rinse them thoroughly after draining to reduce excess sodium and improve their flavor.
10. Poultry
To prevent poultry from drying out, avoid opening the oven door frequently while cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and let the meat rest for 30-40 minutes before serving.
11.Pizza Dough
Hand-stretching pizza dough helps maintain air pockets that contribute to a fluffy crust. Using a rolling pin can flatten these pockets, affecting the dough’s texture.
12. Dishes with Bacon
For even cooking, use pre-cooked bacon or cook bacon strips in the oven at 400°F until they are crispy and flexible. This approach helps avoid uneven cooking and burning.