Many amateur cooks dream of becoming an executive chef, the head chef in a kitchen, while others dream of becoming a specialised chef instead – such as a pastry chef or a sushi chef. During your training at a culinary arts school you might find that you are especially good at something in particular, or…
Cooking and Baking Basics
Icing 101
Ganache, buttercream, glace or royal – which icing do I use? These are no doubt, familiar words uttered in kitchens throughout the world! With all the different types of icing out there, we know that it can get a little confusing. And that’s why we’ve created an Icing 101 guide – something to help you…
How to Cook Roast Pork
Ask the butcher to cut the rind closely and deeply in order to make carving easier. Rub the outside with salt and oil before cooking, as this results in a good crackling. Put the joint on a rack and roast in one of the following ways: High-temperature method In a hot oven (220°C), allowing 25…
How to Cook Roast Beef
Here’s a list of some cuts of beef, with the best ways of cooking them: Topside: Roast, pot-roast, braise Sirloin: Roast (on the bone, or boned and rolled) Ribs: Roast (on the bone, or boned and rolled) Buttock steak: Braise, stew, pot-roast or use in pies Rump steak: Grill or fry Fillet steak: Brill or…
How to Measure Portion Sizes of Pasta, Rice and Couscous
Most of us are guilty of cooking too much when it comes to starches. And when we do try to cook less, it somehow ends up not being enough. It’s very hard to get it just right, so how much, in dry weight, should be sufficient per person? Of course it all depends on whether…
How to Cook Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs are quick and easy to make, and always a winner among kids when accompanied by buttered toast and lots of tomato sauce. Follow this simple method to make scrambled eggs in one-two-three. Method: Break two eggs per person into a bowl and add a tablespoon of milk per egg. Mix well until the…
How to Make Gravy
Many people complain about not knowing how to make good gravy. The secret to gravy lies in the flavour, which means that good gravy starts with good meat. Follow these simple instructions to make the perfect gravy in no time at all. Save everything from the pan your meat was cooked in; the dripping, the…
How to Make a Medium White Sauce
A classic white sauce is so versatile and can add that little extra to many a meal – such as lasagna, stews, soups and a variety of pasta sauces. Using ingredients that you more than likely have in your cupboard makes this a useful recipe. The recipe makes one cup of medium white sauce. Ingredients:…
How to Fry an Egg
Frying an egg might not be the healthiest way of preparing it, but every now and then it’s nice to treat yourself to a full English breakfast. Follow these simple instructions to fry your egg without burning it, and serve with toast, bacon, sausages, tomatoes and mushrooms. Method: Heat a pan to medium heat, only…
How to Cook Rice
Cooking rice might sound like the simplest task, but the truth is that a lot of people struggle to get it right. Getting your measurements of dry rice and water accurate is crucial, and so is the cooking method. Follow these simple instructions to achieve perfectly light and fluffy rice every time! Method: Rinse the…
How to Cook Pasta
Most people don’t use a specific method when cooking pasta, they’ll just chuck the pieces into a pot of boiling water and leave it to do its own thing. But if you really want to cook your pasta to a flawless al dente texture – just the way the Italians like it – follow these…
How to Cook Mashed Potato
Mashed potato is the perfect comfort food, especially when accompanied by a rich, savoury gravy. Follow these simple instructions to make plain mashed potato, and experiment with adding different ingredients for variety and flavour – such as herbs, cheddar cheese, garlic or onion. Method: Peel your potatoes, one medium-sized to one large per person, and…
