Last year, I had donated a Kid's cooking party to a local school auction. So, this week I got together with 6 teens to teach them how to make themselves dinner. They had chosen 3 recipes from my website and I arrived at the house with all the ingredients and equipment - ready to cook!
The chosen menu was Classic chicken pot pie, Pineapple fried rice and Chocolate lava cakes. They did everything, from poaching the chicken, chopping vegetables, melting chocolate and dinner was on the table in under 2 hours.
Here are some tips to make your next cooking adventure a success.
- Make sure you have the right equipment before you start.
- Print the recipe and place it in a plastic cover, so it doesn't get dirty or wet.
- Read the recipe first to make sure you have all the ingredients necessary, then start prepping the recipe which takes the longest to cook.
- Always, start with your "mise en place" or pre-measuring before you start any recipe. All professional chefs do this and ensures that we don't forget any essential ingredients, e.g., baking powder in a cake?
- Put away all the ingredients after measuring, so excess mess is at a minimum, you will look much more organised and efficient.
- Once, you've checked your list, then you're ready to start cooking!
- Don't be in a rush when cooking - follow the directions step by step, reading the recipe carefully.
- Preheat your oven if necessary and grease or prep your pans or cookie sheets ahead of time.
- Ask a grown up to help, especially if you are using sharp knives or using the stovetop or oven.
- Clean your work space as you go - food safety is really important.
- Wash your own dishes - your parents may let you cook again.
- AND most important of all - Have fun and enjoy all your hard work!
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