COOKING UP A STORM

Some basic tips and the right attitude can make you a better cook

For many, ‘cooking’ means a sad-looking microwave meal, or a passable roast lamb at Christmas. It is a lamentable chore to get through most nights (if not every night) and they have no passion for it.

For others, cooking is an expression of themselves, and an opportunity develop their skills. If you are one of the latter, this is for you. If you’d like to be a better cook...

...GIVE YOURSELF A HEAD START

Pick a dish you like to make.

Perhaps you think your soufflé is already pretty good, but would like to make it the best in the business.

The object of the game is to pick something you have confidence in making, and to perfect it.

Only then can you “level up” to something a bit newer and more exciting.

...BUY THE GOOD STUFF

Don’t be cheap.

No need to buy Wyke Farms Cheddar (at around $200 per pound), but buying Tasty Cheese at your local grocery store will not do.

Buy the right ingredients, of high(-ish) quality, and you will be amazed at the difference in taste and consistency.

...USE THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Make sure you have at least the essential tools in your kitchen. You can expand your tool army as your skills improve and your projects become more complicated. If the recipe calls for two wooden spoons,use two wooden spoons.

...TEST YOURSELF (AGAIN, AND AGAIN)

Invite your family and friends over for the déjeuner of their lives. This is your moment! Okay, the first time might not be perfect, but that’s alright. You’ll keep going until you nail it. Remember: practice makes perfect.