What cooking basics do you need to know?

Do these sentences resonate? 👇

• "I can't cook, but I want to eat healthy."
• "Cooking seems like too much work."
• "I don't know where to start with cooking."

If this sounds like you, don't stress. We've all been there.

We can become confident, healthy, and savvy cooks. Understanding the basics of cooking is the first step. Let's dive in and figure out what we need to get started.

"Cooking is an art, but all art requires knowing something about the techniques and materials." - Nathan Myhrvold

How does Gen Z feel about cooking?

According to a survey by Home Run Inn Pizza, only 33% of Gen Z consider themselves skilled cooks. But that doesn't mean we can't learn. Mastering a few basic techniques and having the right tools can make cooking less intimidating and more fun.

What are the essential cooking techniques?

1. Sautéing
   • Sautéing is cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over high heat. It's perfect for vegetables and small pieces of meat.
   • Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
2. Boiling
   • Boiling involves cooking food in water at a high temperature. It's a staple for pasta, potatoes, and eggs.
   • Tip: Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance flavor.
3. Baking
   • Baking uses dry heat in an oven, ideal for cakes, bread, and roasted veggies.
   • Tip: Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.

What tools do I need?

• Chef's knife: A versatile tool for most of your chopping needs.
• Cutting board: Preferably two, one for raw meat and one for vegetables.
• Pots and pans: A basic set with a frying pan, a saucepan, and a larger pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for following recipes accurately.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients.

What ingredients should I always have on hand?

• Spices: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• Oils: Olive oil and vegetable oil.
• Basics: Rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, and beans.
• Fresh ingredients: Garlic, onions, and seasonal vegetables.

"It's good to have a passion for cooking, but it's good, too, to check up once in a while and make sure you haven't lost your enthusiasm." - Ina Garten

What is YOUr relationship with cooking?

Here are some questions to help you explore:

1. What do you enjoy most about cooking?
2. What dishes do you feel confident making?
3. How do you feel when you try a new recipe?
4. What barriers keep you from cooking more often?
5. Who taught you the basics of cooking, and what did you learn from them?

"Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all." - Harriet Van Horne

Click on the dropdowns below to see the easy action items:

Some vibes to close us out

Your cooking journey is unique.

Embrace the learning process, celebrate your successes, and don't be afraid to make mistakes.

Every meal is a step toward becoming a more confident cook.

YOU got this. 💭✨

Sources

1. "Culinary Confessions: Cooking Habits of Gen Z & Millennials." Home Run Inn Pizza (2023).
2. "30 Cooking Techniques Every Beginner Home Cook Should Know." Tasting Table (2023).
3. "How to be a good-enough home cook." Vox (2022)

Dig into this topic deeper by signing up for our FREE newsletter.

You'll be able to download the reflection worksheet to put all these actions into one page.

Once you're in, come back to this page and download your new go-to resource.