Learn The Basics Of The Kitchen With These Simple Tips

There are people who see cooking as nothing more than a chore. However, cooking can be an enjoyable activity. Cooking can also be used as a way to promote a healthy lifestyle. In order to be a good cook, you should continue to learn. The following article will help you learn some things you may not have known about cooking.

Always store your spices in a cool and dark place. The flavor of herbs and spices will be diminished if they are subjected to humidity, heat, or light. Ground herbs and spices retain their flavor for 12 months under normal circumstances. Whole spices typically last longer than ground spices. Depending on the advice you???re reading, they can last from one to several years. In terms of lasting, remember it is the flavor of the spices that is usually the issue with the older spices losing their flavor. The color, fragrance and condition of the spice will often indicate its freshness. As long as they are stored properly, they will hold onto their flavor for several years.

When baking pie or tart crusts, bake them longer than you think you should. Judge their color, not the time in the oven to determine if they are done. They will be golden brown when cooked. This indicates the sugar has turned to caramel. Your crust will have a sweeter and crispier flavor.

Consider freezing your meat a bit so that it will be easier to slice. This provides ideally thin meat for Thai, Chinese, or other Asian recipes. When you freeze the meat, fibers stretch less making it cut easier. Having said that, you must be certain to let the meat strips thaw out prior to cooking them to ensure even cooking.

If you are cooking meats that need seasoning, season a small piece first before making the entire meal. Many foods, like hamburgers, meatloaf and meatballs take careful seasoning to taste great. Hold off on cooking the entire dish until you have checked the seasoning. Instead, make a small patty out of a little piece and cook that first. You can then either leave as-is, or adjust your seasonings according to your tastes.

A useful tip when making chicken stock is to think big! Plan on preparing a large pot of stock in order to freeze it for storing. You can use your homemade chicken stock for soups, casseroles and stews. Put the stock into freezer bags and put it in your freezer.

Learning how to cook an amazing meal will help you throughout your life, whether it’s to impress a date or your boss. Sitting with family and friends to share good food is an activity that is enjoyed the world over. Use the guidelines suggested in this article to get you started on the path towards cooking perfection.