In today's busy world, where most people spend much of their time away from home, cooking can seem like a tedious and overwhelming task. Additionally, cooking can be an intimidating skill for beginners, but with the right guidance and some practical tips, anyone can become a competent chef.

Today we want to provide all those who want to get started in the kitchen with a series of useful tips that will make the cooking process easier, more organized and more enjoyable. Get ready to discover how you can transform your kitchen into a space of creativity and flavor!

The importance of knowing how to cook

Knowing how to cook is not only a practical skill, but also a door to a healthier and more satisfying life. Cooking your own meals allows you to control the ingredients you consume, which can result in a more balanced and nutritious diet. Plus, home cooking is a great way to save money and experiment with different flavors and culinary cultures. Beyond the practical benefits, cooking can be a relaxing and rewarding activity that encourages creativity and emotional well-being.

Knowing how to cook not only gives you the independence of not depending on restaurants or processed foods to meet your nutritional needs, but it also offers a number of additional benefits:

• Saving money: Cooking at home is usually much cheaper than eating out.
• Healthy: When cooking at home, you can control the ingredients and preparation of your meals, allowing you to choose healthier options and avoid excessive consumption of fats, sugars and sodium.
• Creativity: Cooking allows you to explore your creativity and experiment with different flavors, textures and combinations of ingredients.
• Union: Cooking together can be a fun and enriching family or social activity that encourages togetherness and teamwork.

Cooking Tips for Beginners

If you're taking your first steps into the culinary world, don't worry if you feel a little lost or insecure. With a little practice, patience, and some helpful tips, you can become a good cook in no time.

Plan your recipes in advance

One of the first steps to being a successful cook is to plan your recipes in advance. Having a clear plan will help you organize your ingredients and timing, which will reduce stress and increase efficiency in the kitchen. Choose your recipes for the week, make a shopping list and make sure you have everything you need before you start cooking.

Defrost with time

If you plan to cook with frozen ingredients, be sure to defrost them well in advance. Thawing food in the refrigerator overnight is the safest and most effective way. Avoid defrosting at room temperature to prevent the proliferation of bacteria.

Organize your space before you start

Having a neat and organized kitchen is crucial for a smooth cooking experience. Before you start cooking, make sure your workspace is clean and all utensils and ingredients are within reach. This will allow you to work more efficiently and enjoy the process.

Use meters

Using accurate measurers is essential to following recipes correctly, especially when it comes to baking. Measuring ingredients accurately ensures that you get the desired results and avoid culinary disasters.

Use good quality pans

Investing in good quality pans can make a big difference in your kitchen. High-quality pans distribute heat evenly and reduce the chance of food burning or sticking. In the long run, a good frying pan can save you time and effort.

Add salt to the water after boiling

Adding salt to the cooking water once it has started to boil is a good practice to ensure that it dissolves properly and is distributed evenly. This trick is especially useful when cooking pasta and vegetables.

Use a wooden shovel to stop the boiling water

If you've ever had trouble with boiling water spilling over, try this simple trick: Place a wooden scoop over the pot. The wood breaks up bubbles and prevents water from overflowing.

Cut the chicken with scissors

Kitchen shears are an incredibly useful tool, especially when it comes to cutting chicken. Using them instead of a knife can make the process faster and safer, allowing you to cut uniform and effortless pieces.

Large foods are cooked over low heat

Cooking large foods, such as roasts or stews, low and slow ensures that they cook evenly and stay juicy and tender. This method also allows the flavors to develop and blend better.

Garlic burns quickly

Garlic is a delicious ingredient, but it burns quickly and can leave a bitter taste in your dish. Add it at the end of cooking or cook over low heat to avoid burning.

Caramelized onion should not contain sugar

Caramelization of the onion should be a natural process, without the need to add sugar. Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat, allowing their natural sugars to release and caramelize, resulting in a deep, sweet flavor.

Use extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy and tasty option for cooking. Its high antioxidant and healthy fat content makes it an excellent choice for a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries.

Use spices

Spices are the key to adding flavor and depth to your dishes. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and combinations to discover new flavors and make your meals more interesting and tasty.

Prevent fish from sticking to the pan with lemon peels on the base

Placing lemon peels on the bottom of the pan before cooking the fish is a clever trick to prevent sticking. Plus, lemon adds a touch of fresh flavor to the fish.

Try what you are preparing

Tasting your food as you cook is crucial to ensure the flavors are balanced and adjusted to your taste. Don't wait until the end to make adjustments; Test and adjust as you go.

Wash your utensils very well

Hygiene in the kitchen is essential. Be sure to wash all your utensils thoroughly, especially after handling raw foods like meat or chicken, to avoid cross-contamination and keep your kitchen safe.

Clean on the go

Keeping your workspace clean while cooking can make the process much more enjoyable. Wipe up spills and put away utensils and ingredients as you use them to maintain a tidy, efficient environment.

Do not put the spices on top of the extractor or on top of the burner.

Storing spices near heat can cause them to lose their flavor and aroma. Keep your spices in a cool, dark place to ensure they stay fresh and tasty.

You don't need every kitchen accessory you see, just a few

It's easy to get carried away by the number of kitchen gadgets available, but in reality, you only need a few good quality utensils to cook well. Invest in essential, versatile tools that you will actually use.

To brown the vegetables, stop moving them

If you want your vegetables to brown and take on a caramelized flavor, leave them still in the pan for a few minutes before moving them. This allows them to develop a tasty, golden crust.

Living alone can be an exciting experience, but it can also be challenging. One of the hardest things to learn is how to cook for yourself.

When you live alone, you don't have anyone to help you cook or clean. This means you have to be more independent and organized. Fortunately, there are many quick and easy recipes you can make at home.

These recipes are perfect for people who live alone and want to eat healthy and delicious.

Why is it important to eat well when we live alone?

Eating well is important for everyone, regardless of whether we live alone or with other people. However, when we live alone, it can be easier to fall into the temptation of eating processed, unhealthy and low-nutritious foods or skipping meals, which could cause some health problems.

So here are some reasons why it is important to eat well when we live alone:

• To maintain good health. A healthy diet helps prevent chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
• To have more energy. Healthy foods provide the body with the energy it needs to function optimally.
• To improve mood. A healthy diet can help improve mood and reduce stress.
• To feel good about yourself. When we eat well, we feel better about ourselves and our appearance.

We also leave you some tips to eat well when we live alone:

• Plan your meals in advance. This will help you make sure you have the ingredients you need on hand and avoid eating unhealthy foods for convenience.
• Cook in large quantities. You can freeze leftovers for quick and easy meals in the future.
• Choose fresh and seasonal foods. Fresh foods are more nutritious and tastier than processed foods.
• Experiment with different recipes. There are many healthy and delicious recipes available.

Below we leave you some quick and delicious recipes that you can make if you started living alone:

Avocado toast

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat bread or your choice 1 ripe avocado
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced tomato, poached egg, crumbled feta cheese

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread slices.
2. While the toast is toasting, cut the avocado into thin slices.
3. Once the toast is ready, spread the avocado slices on it.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. You can add other optional ingredients such as sliced tomato, poached egg or feta cheese for more flavor and variety.

Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti
• Tomato sauce in a jar or can
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh or dried basil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Heat the tomato sauce in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and mix it with the hot tomato sauce.
4. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese and basil leaves for more flavor.

Grilled chicken salad

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast
• Lettuce mix
• Sliced ​​tomato
• Sliced cucumber
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the chicken on the grill or in a pan until completely cooked.
3. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salad with the lettuce, tomato and cucumber mixture.
4. Cut the chicken into strips and place it on the salad.
5. Dress the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.

Fried rice with vegetables

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice (may be leftover)
• Frozen or fresh vegetables (e.g. carrots, peas, broccoli)
• Sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• Soy sauce
• Egg (optional)
• Chopped onion (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil.
2. If you want to add egg, beat one in a bowl and add it to the hot pan. Stir until cooked and then remove from the pan.
3. Add the vegetables to the pan and sauté until tender.
4. Add the cooked rice and stir well.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce to taste and, if desired, add the scrambled egg and chopped onion.

Fruit and yogurt smoothie

Ingredients:

• plain yogurt
• Frozen fruits (e.g. banana, strawberries, mango)
• Honey or sugar (optional)
• Milk (can be almond milk, oat milk, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Place a portion of yogurt in a blender.
2. Add frozen fruit of your choice (about a cup).
3. Add a splash of honey or sugar if you prefer a sweeter shake.
4. Add enough milk to reach the desired consistency.
5. Blend until everything is well mixed and serve.

Chicken and avocado salad

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken breast, grilled or baked
• 1 avocado, ripe
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
• 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the chicken breast into strips.
2. Cut the avocado into slices.
3. In a bowl, combine the chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper.
4. Mix well and serve.

Whole wheat pasta with basil pesto

Ingredients:

• 1 package of whole wheat pasta
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, make the basil pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
3. Drain the pasta and combine it with the pesto of basil. Mix well and serve.

Vegetable and hummus wraps

Ingredients:

• 2 whole wheat tortillas
• 1/2 cup hummus
• 1/2 cup of chopped vegetables, such as carrot, cucumber, tomato, onion, etc.
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Spread the hummus on the tortillas.
2. Add the chopped vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll up the wraps and serve.

Lentil soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 10 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Wash the lentils and drain them.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cumin, turmeric, salt and pepper.
3. Add the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.
4. Serve hot.

With a little planning and organization, you can eat healthily and deliciously, even if you live alone.

These recipes will help you stay healthy and delicious while you get used to living alone. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and experiment with different ingredients to discover your own culinary creations!

What recipes saved your life when you started living alone?

The kitchen is one of the preferred spaces to unleash creativity and delight our loved ones with delicious dishes. Between recipe and recipe , it is always useful to have some tips and tricks that help us improve our culinary skills and cook like real chefs . Would you like to surprise your friends and family with your creations worthy of a professional? 

Then you are in the right place. Today we are going to reveal a selection of infallible tips and tricks that will allow you to cook like a chef . You will find everything you need to take your dishes to the next level. So get ready to impress and dazzle everyone with your cooking skills . Let's start this exciting adventure in the kitchen!

Tips to improve in the kitchen

organization is key

Oefore you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients prepared and measured. Keep your kitchen tidy and clean to save time and avoid stress during preparation.

Master the basic techniques

Learn basic cutting techniques, such as the julienne or brunoise cut. This will allow you to work efficiently and obtain professional results in your preparations.

Perfect seasoning

The art of seasoning is essential to highlight the flavors in your dishes. Learn how to season properly with just the right amount of salt, pepper, and spices. Don't underestimate the power of good seasoning.

Experiment with new ingredients and flavors

Expand your culinary repertoire and dare to try different ingredients and flavors. Don't be afraid to combine surprising ingredients and discover new favorite dishes that will captivate your palate.

Take advantage of fresh herbs

Fresh herbs add a touch of freshness and flavor to your dishes. Learn to identify, store and use different herbs to enhance your preparations. Your kitchen will be filled with delicious aromas!

Master the cooking techniques

Learn to sear meats, cook fish to perfection and reach the exact point in your preparations. With practice and patience, you will be able to control the final result of your dishes and you will surprise everyone with your culinary skills.

Sauces, the final touch

Sauces can elevate an ordinary dish into an extraordinary dining experience. Learn how to make classic sauces and experiment with innovative combinations to add that special touch to your culinary creations.

Know your kitchen utensils

Familiarize yourself with the different kitchen utensils and learn how to use them correctly. From sharp knives to non-stick pans, each tool has its purpose and will help you achieve optimal results in the kitchen.

Learn from your mistakes

Even the most experienced chefs make mistakes in the kitchen. Don't be afraid to eat them, as they are opportunities to learn and improve your culinary skills. Every mistake brings you one step closer to cooking perfection.

Have fun and experiment

The kitchen is a space for creativity and fun. Don't be afraid to experiment with ingredients, techniques, and recipes. Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the cooking process like a true chef. Have fun and surprise yourself with your own gastronomic creations!

Kitchen tricks that will make you look like a chef

Avoid burning your sauces

Place a glass or metal marble in the pot while cooking sauces or other liquids. The moving marble will prevent clumps from forming on the bottom and ensure a perfect texture.

Fix salty foods

If your dish turned out to be too salty, peel a small or medium potato and place it in the pot for a few minutes. The potato will absorb the excess salt and make the stew delicious again.

Peel onions effortlessly

Put the onion under warm water for a few seconds. The skin will soften and you can easily remove it without suffering.

Prevents pasta from sticking

Be sure to stir the pasta as it cooks and use plenty of water. If the pasta has stuck together, simply bring it back to a boil in fresh water, stir and drain. It will recover its perfect texture!

Fry eggs without splashing

Add a pinch of flour to the hot oil in the pan before frying the eggs. The flour will avoid annoying splashes and you will get perfect fried eggs.

Soft and delicious scrambled eggs

For creamy and delicious scrambled eggs, add a splash of orange juice when beating the eggs. You will be amazed at the flavor and texture you will get.

Loose and perfect rice

Add the juice of half a lemon to the water before boiling the white rice to prevent it from caking. You can also wash the rice several times to remove excess starch.

Ripen avocados quickly

If you need to ripen an avocado quickly, wrap it in newspaper and store it in the fridge. You will see how it matures faster than those that are not wrapped. This trick also works for bananas.

Toast the spices to intensify the flavor

Brown the spices in a pan before using them in your dishes. This will intensify its flavor and add a special touch to your culinary creations.

Perfect Caramelized Onion

Use white sweet onion, olive oil, and a nonstick skillet to caramelize the onion. Simmer it for at least 40 minutes and add sugar for a sweet and delicious taste.

Prepare the perfect meat

Before cooking the meat, let it rest at room temperature. This will ensure a more even and juicy cook. For lean proteins, like chicken or turkey, sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the surface before cooking for faster, more flavorful browning. Also, preheat your pots and pans before adding any ingredients to seal in the juices and maximize flavor.

Use homemade broths

Homemade broths, whether vegetable, chicken or fish, are a culinary secret to enhance the flavor of stews, sauces and other dishes. Instead of using water, incorporate homemade broths into your recipes to add an extra touch of delicious flavor and depth.

The best technique for peeling tomatoes

For easy peeling of tomatoes, submerge them in boiling water for a few minutes, then remove and allow to cool to avoid burning. The skin will come off easily. This trick can also be applied to roasted peppers. After taking them out of the oven, let them cool, dry them and you can easily remove the skin.

Cover the pots

When you cook, remember to cover pots and pans. This will speed up the cooking process and allow food to cook more quickly. In addition, by covering the pots, you will save energy and resources, such as gas or electricity. Be sure to use proper, tight-fitting lids to retain heat and maintain the flavors and nutrients in your preparations.