Having cooked for so many years, I sometimes fail to remember that we all have to start with the basics! Techniques and terms that I use on a daily basis are foreign to the new cook and even those who have done basic cooking. So, this section is devoted to answering some of those questions you might have or are not sure of. I am not a professional chef and I have learned mostly through watching my grandmother and trial and error. I have taken and received certificates in several cooking courses, mostly in ethnic cooking, because their styles are different than the American way.

Honestly, I don't think I have ever followed a recipe exactly!....I use them as a guide for a meal that I want to cook. Everyone's tastes are not the same, and what I may prefer to use in a recipe, may not be what your tastes are. Following recipes, unlike baking, which are exact formulas, can be altered accordingly. My suggestion is that when you try a new recipe, follow it the first time, then adjust it to your and your family's preferences.

What Is Good Cooking?

CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW TO FIND THE ANSWERS

READ THE RECIPE! - This is first and foremost the most important part of cooking! Knowing and understanding the recipe!

GLOSSARY - Here you will find a list of cooking terms, ingredients, and techniques that you will come across whenever cooking or baking.

UTENSILS - Any tools or instruments used in the preparation, serving and consumption of food. For preparation, kitchenware items such as pots, pans, baking dishes, spatulas, knives, measuring cups, measuring spoons, and similar utensils are included. For serving and consumption, food platters, bread baskets, carving utensils, dishes, forks, knives, spoons, cups, and beverage glasses are all considered to be food utensils.

FOOD STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE - Storing your food properly and under the best condition possible will extend its life to its maximum potential. Some foods can be stored at room temperature and some must be refrigerated. Freezing can be used to extend the life of many products. To get the most out of the storage areas, certain conditions must be maintained.

MEASURING TIPS AND TECHNIQUES - Proper measuring of ingredients is important to successful cooking and baking. Some foods can be greatly affect by too much or too little of certain ingredients, such as salt, baking soda, baking powder and hot or spicy ingredients, such as cayenne pepper. The following information will assist in ensuring that your ingredients are measured proper.

INGREDIENT FUNCTIONS - There are many ingredients that have special functions in the baking and cooking process. Some functions are critical to the success of the finished product. Some of these ingredients can be substituted with other ingredients and produce the same outcome but many times substitutions will have some affect on the end product.

BAKING ESSENTIALS - Baking is an art as well as a science. You mix certain carefully measured ingredients, much as the scientist does. You pop them into the oven and presto - out comes a real work of art - something to talk about - a cake, a pie, some cookies that are wonderful to look at and to eat.

QUICK TIPS - Here's a few quick tips for you.

FROM AROUND THE WORLD - Are you bored with eating the same flavors everyday? Click here to find out how you can have food from around the world any day of the week in your own kitchen!

READING LABELS - Reading labels is one thing, but what do all the different claims on the front of the package mean? Don't leave for your next grocery trip without this quick common food terms guide!

THE GOOD AND BAD - Did you know that not all things added to food are bad! Read more and find out which food additives should be in your food and which shouldn't.

BUYING AND STORING FISH - Some guidelines and information about buying and storing fish, plus general information.

HERB KNOW-HOW - What you should know about herbs and spices.

COFFEE CUES - I love my coffee!!

A TASTE FOR TEA - The second most popular beverage in the world.