9 tricks to become a better cook

Cooking is an art, but anyone can do it. The level doesn't have to be sky-high for everyone. I'm really not a chef and I'm still learning, so things often go wrong. There are a few tricks that are essential for the basics if you at least want to be able to cook a little. 

Knives

They need to be razor-sharp. Go to a cooking store, get informed and invest in a good brand. The sharpest knives are also the safest knives.

Pans

The same goes for this. Spend real money on good pans, as they will last you a lifetime. In a cheap pan, the chance of something burning is very high. Even if you can already cook very well. Le Creuset is my favorite brand. A sauté pan, a frying pan, and a small saucepan and then you're actually done.

Time

I know, I know; we are all incredibly busy, but take a moment when you cook. Focus only on cooking and put that phone aside for a bit. One message and you're distracted and your onions burn or your beans are overcooked.

Weighing

Buy a scale. Especially when baking, weighing is essential and especially if you're a beginner cook, you can't really do anything “by feel” yet. Sorry.

Recipe

This also has to do with time. Read the entire recipe carefully first instead of starting to cook immediately at step 1. There can always be things that pop up that you forgot or overlooked. So first save the entire recipe and then start again from the beginning.

Stock

Fill your pantry. I'm against cooking from packages, but canned beans or frozen spinach is very easy, quick, and healthy cooking.

Herbs

Work with fresh herbs (so also with freshly grated ginger and not from a jar. Just to name something) and GROUND pepper and salt.

Butter or olive oil

Alright; coconut oil is also fine, but butter or olive oil really adds more flavor. Margarine is out of the question.

Finally

Perhaps the most important: put a little love into it.