The art and science of cooking

New Delhi: Cooking is a combination of art and science, but it can also be a stressful and time-consuming task for many people. From chopping vegetables to managing different dishes simultaneously, daily cooking can be challenging.

To simplify the process, renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor has shared some simple and effective kitchen tips that can turn everyday cooking into a pleasant experience. These hacks are not only easy but also suitable for beginners and perfect for home kitchens.

Importance of mise en place

Chef Sanjeev Kapoor believes in the principle of Mise en place, which means keeping all the ingredients ready before cooking. This includes chopping vegetables, measuring spices, peeling ingredients, and keeping utensils nearby. When preparation is done in advance, cooking becomes faster, quieter, and more organized.

use sharp knife

An important tip is to use a sharp knife. Many people believe that dull knives are safe, but this is wrong. Sharp knives cut smoothly and cleanly, reducing the chance of slips and injuries. These also make cutting fast and accurate.

correct use of salt

Chef Kapoor recommends adding salt gradually when cooking at home, rather than adding all the salt at the end. Adding salt at different stages improves the taste. Homemade foods generally contain less sodium than packaged foods, so using salt carefully can improve flavor and balance.

Taste Balancing Techniques

Tasting while cooking is also important. Small changes, like adding a pinch of spice or salt, can greatly improve the taste. If a dish turns out to be too salty, Chef Sanjeev suggests adding a small ball of flour to the curry. It absorbs excess salt naturally.

Correct use of cutting board

For safety, Chef Kapoor recommends placing a wet paper towel or cloth under the cutting board. This prevents the board from slipping and prevents accidents while cutting.

cooking quantity

Chef Kapoor warns against overcrowding the pan. Too much food lowers the temperature of the pan, causing the ingredients to steam. Cooking in small batches allows food to cook more evenly and taste better.

Balanced use of butter and oil

While sauteing, he recommends using both butter and oil in equal quantities. The oil prevents the butter from burning, while the butter imparts rich flavor.

cutting round vegetables

For safe cutting, always cut a small portion of round vegetables like onions or tomatoes and create a flat surface. This provides better control.

Do not over mix the batter

When baking, avoid over-mixing the batter, as this may cause the cakes to become tough. Mixing slowly keeps them soft and fluffy.

take care of cleanliness

Lastly, be careful about cleanliness while cooking. A clean kitchen increases safety, saves time and makes cooking more fun. These simple tips from Chef Sanjeev Kapoor can literally transform your everyday cooking experience.