Learning to cook can be done through childhood experiments, adult classes, vocational schools, on-the-job training, cookbooks, TV shows, and cooking classes. One-on-one training and family traditions are also helpful. Experience and trial and error are key.
There are many ways to learn to cook, from early childhood cooking experiments to adult gourmet cooking classes. Some of the best cooks learned from their parents and grandparents, while others practiced recipes from cookbooks or television shows. Home economy classes in high schools often emphasize cooking meals using basic ingredients. Vocational schools may also offer two-year programs in commercial cooking, complete with the real experience of running a real coffee shop or restaurant.
Because learning to cook is such a hands-on experience, perhaps the best method is one-on-one training. Find a talented relative or a willing family friend and ask them to share their culinary experiences with you. Many amateur cooks like to play the role of instructor and also benefit from an extra pair of hands. Be willing to do a lot of mundane prep or cleaning chores in exchange for free cooking lessons. Many family food traditions are passed down from grandparents and other relatives, so take the opportunity to learn these recipes.
Some find it easier to learn to cook by total immersion, which means real work in a commercial kitchen. Quite often a local restaurant will offer on-the-job training for those willing to put in long hours or take on other responsibilities. Filling short orders over a busy breakfast or lunch is sure to allow beginning cooks to learn how different foods are prepared and how important organization can be. Preparing the same dishes over and over again may seem tedious, but it will help cooks develop a sixth sense about correct cooking times and presentation.
If your cooking goals include preparing appetizers for parties or a dessert for an indoor dinner party, quality cookbooks may be the best way to learn how to cook. Many modern cookbooks include explanations of cooking terms, as well as step-by-step demonstrations of essential cooking methods like braising and sautéing. Professional chefs can also appear in videos and DVDs that accompany these cookbooks. These audiovisual aids can be viewed several times before any cooking takes place. Cooking shows on TV have also become popular among novice cooks. Many of these shows take the time to explain the science behind cooking or the best kitchen tools to use for a particular recipe.
Those with expendable income and few hours to spare can sign up for adult cooking classes. Some continuing education programs offer one-day classes on specific topics like cake decorating or microwave cooking, while others offer longer classes on gourmet cooking techniques or the end of cooking. Individuals seeking even more cooking training can enroll in recognized food academies and culinary arts schools. After taking these courses and earning a certificate, many graduates go on to work as chefs in top restaurants around the world. Others use their new skills to teach others or start their own catering services. No matter what the reason, learning to cook is one of the most beneficial skills one can have as an adult.
Since experience is often the best teacher, any experienced cook or professional chef will tell you that it takes trial and error to learn how to cook. Don’t be afraid to try recreating a dish you’ve enjoyed at a restaurant or tweaking a recipe you already have.
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