Website design By BotEap.comThose who do not like to cook find it an arduous task or too challenging. One reason may be that they are intimidated by the recipe. The actual ingredient list and/or instructions may be long.

Website design By BotEap.comTo get started, explore the recipe from start to finish. While it may seem long, the ingredient list often lists very common items like butter, cooking oil, salt, pepper, various spices, etc. The instructions may seem complicated but, again, they simply detail the basic procedures, such as setting the stove or the correct oven temperature. Familiarize yourself with the methods or processes and get an idea of ​​how easy or difficult they may be based on your abilities. You want to be comfortable and try to cook the dish or you may go through the feeling that the dish doesn’t come out right. If you don’t feel comfortable, try cooking it for yourself and experiment/practice your skills. Even the best chefs have burned toast or cooked a hard-boiled egg too long…so to speak. Remember, the recipes are used by the best cooks in the world.

Website design By BotEap.comNow that you’ve read the recipe, you know what it involves and what ingredients you’ll need. You want to have all the ingredients when you start. It will be very frustrating to start cooking and be left without something simple. You will lose your enthusiasm and interest.

Website design By BotEap.comNext step… prepare the ingredients.

Website design By BotEap.comMake sure you have the right ingredients…and the right amounts. While you can usually substitute the Dijon mustard for spicy brown mustard, you can’t use dry mustard. You don’t want to find out you need 3 cups of chicken broth when you only have half a cup. As you become more experienced in the kitchen, you will learn how easy it can be to substitute and/or adjust quantities.

Website design By BotEap.comNow…make sure you have the right cookware and utensils.

Website design By BotEap.comMost recipes will call for a specific type of pot or pan, but it’s rarely “exotic” and not something you already have in your kitchen. Basic large spoons, ladles, flip flops and “flippers” generally cover what you need. Tip…if you’re using “nonstick” or enamel-coated pots and pans, be sure to use wooden rubber-type utensils so you don’t scratch the coated surfaces.

Website design By BotEap.comHere’s a recipe that lists nine ingredients, but as you read and see it, it’s very simple, including instructions.

Website design By BotEap.comWhite Clam Sauce Recipe

Website design By BotEap.com1 can (10 oz) chopped clams
¼ teaspoon olive oil
½ teaspoon butter
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon oregano
3 tablespoons (heaping) dried parsley
3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon. grated Romano cheese

Website design By BotEap.comCombine all ingredients and heat in a saucepan. For overcooked linguine. Makes 2 servings.

Website design By BotEap.comSome time ago I decided that if you have to do something several times a day, why not make it a hobby and enjoy it. Cooking can be fun and give you a sense of accomplishment… not to mention a very enjoyable meal for your family or friends.