General: Prepare ingredients and equipment

General: Prepare ingredients and equipment

General Preparation

  • Get to know the recipe: Read the recipe thoroughly before you begin. Understand the steps, check for any unfamiliar techniques and ensure all required ingredients are available.
  • Organize your workspace: Clean your workspace, organise your tools and ingredients for easy access.

Ingredient Preparation

  • Prepare fresh ingredients: When using fresh ingredients like fruits and vegetables, wash them properly under running water. Peel, chop, dice or grate as required by the recipe.
  • Measuring ingredients: Use appropriate tools like weighing scales, spoons, and cups for accuracy when preparing ingredients. Precision is key in achieving desired outcomes in food preparation.
  • Handling raw meat and fish: These should be handled with the utmost care. Avoid cross-contamination by using separate chopping boards and knives. After preparation, properly wash used utensils immediately.

Equipment Preparation

  • Selecting the right tools: Make sure you have all necessary tools before starting. These may include knives, peelers, food processors, pans, baking sheets, bowls, etc.
  • Preheat oven: If recipe requires, preheating the oven before starting can save time and ensure even cooking.
  • Assembling equipment: Some recipes will require equipment to be assembled prior to use. Learn how to assemble and disassemble your appliances for safe, efficient use.

Safety and Hygiene

  • Washing hands: Always wash your hands before handling food or kitchen utensils, to prevent the spread of bacteria.
  • Safe food storage: Store ingredients at the right temperature, in the right containers. Fresh produce and raw meats should be kept in the fridge until needed.
  • Cleaning up: After cooking, tidying and cleaning your workspace helps prevent bacteria growth and maintains a healthy kitchen environment.

Remember, preparation is key to smooth cooking and baking processes. Being prepared reduces mistakes, wastage and cooking stress. Practice makes perfect! Be patient and persistent in honing your cooking skills.