Cooking Basics: Five Skills Every Teen Should Know How to Do
- Piece of Cake Staff
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Written by Cove Johnson Rabidoux
You don't need to be a professional chef, but as a teen, you should be able to make a few simple, delicious meals. To do so, there are some basic cooking techniques you should master. These skills won't just help you prepare food but also help you save money, practice food safety, and take care of yourself and your family! So what are these five essential cooking skills? Read below to find out!
1. Cooking Rice
Rice is one of the simplest and most versatile foods to make. It can be served with vegetables, chicken, beans, and so many other dishes. That's why learning how to correctly cook rice is an essential skill. Luckily, there is just one thing to remember, which is the 1/2 rice-to-water ratio. That means if you cook one cup of rice, you need two cups of water. Once you have this ratio memorized, the rest is easy. Simply bring the rice and water to a boil and then let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Finally, turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes. These three steps are super easy to master and guarantee fluffy, tasty rice every time.
2. Making Scrambled Eggs
Knowing how to make scrambled eggs is incredibly helpful, as they can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, and even dinner. Thankfully, scrambled eggs really don't require much preparation. Simply crack your preferred number of eggs in a bowl and add any seasoning, such as salt, pepper, or paprika. Add a dash of water and whisk the eggs with a fork until they're all mixed. Next, cook them over medium heat, stirring gently to form soft piles. Then, enjoy! While there are other techniques for bringing additional flavor and texture to your eggs, understanding the basics is a great first step.
3. Cutting and Preparing Various Fruits
Some fruits are easier to prepare than others. Take berries, for example. After buying them from a store, they don't require much handling. However, other fruits, such as pineapples, melons, and kiwis, are a different story. Even if these fruits aren't your favorites, it's a good idea to know how to wash, peel, and safely cut them properly. Always use a clean cutting board and a sharp knife while practicing your knife safety. And of course, make sure there is an adult with you!
4. Boiling Pasta
It doesn't get easier than boiling and making pasta. To boil something means to heat up water so it begins to bubble. To do so, simply pour water into a pot and set the stove to the highest setting. Cover the pot, and after a few minutes the water will begin to boil. From there—if you are making pasta—add a little salt to the water, then cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once that time has passed, carefully drain the pasta and serve it with your favorite sauce or toppings.
5. Reheating Leftovers
Knowing how to use and reheat leftovers properly doesn't just reduce food waste but also comes in handy when you need a quick snack. Most leftovers can be reheated in a microwave; however, some leftovers may require you to use a stove or oven. If that's the case, simply pour them in a pot to reheat or spread them on an oven tray.
Just because these skills are easy to learn doesn't mean they aren't important. These techniques are the cornerstones of great cooking, and mastering them is the first step toward becoming a capable and independent cook. Have fun cooking!
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