🧠 Kitchen Basics Everyone Should Know

• Use the right knife for the job — and keep it sharp!
• Understand dry vs. liquid measuring cups.
• Keep pantry essentials like canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil stocked.
• Store herbs with damp paper towels in the fridge to make them last longer.
• Learn measurement conversions — Serious Eats has a great chart.

👨‍🍳 Try it in action: Apply these basics when making our Creamy Tomato Soup!

⏱️ Time-Saving Cooking Hacks

• Pre-chop veggies and store them in airtight containers.
• Cook extra rice or pasta and freeze in portions for quick meals.
• Double your soup or sauce recipe and freeze half for later.
• Use leftover roasted veggies in next-day omelets or sandwiches.

📦 Want more meal prep inspiration? Visit TheKitchn’s Meal Prep Guide.

🍳 Master Basic Cooking Techniques

• Always preheat your pan — it helps with even searing.
• Deglaze pans with broth or wine for instant sauces.
• Use a thermometer for perfectly cooked meat.
• Make a roux for creamy sauces and gravies.

🧁 Apply this to baking too — see our Lemon Drizzle Cake for how to create fluffy, moist cakes.

🌿 Ingredient Spotlights

• Swap vegetable oil with avocado oil for high-heat cooking.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or sour cream for a healthier twist.
• Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and dill elevate any dish.
• Don’t underestimate spices — even a pinch of smoked paprika changes everything.

🧂 For spice pairing ideas, check Spiceology’s Knowledge Base.

🛠️ Fix Common Cooking Mistakes

• Soup too salty? Add a peeled potato or splash of cream to balance it.
• Rice sticky? Rinse before cooking and use the right water ratio.
• Soggy veggies? Don’t overcrowd your pan — give them space to crisp.
• Cake sinking? Don’t open the oven door mid-bake and check your baking soda’s freshness.

💡 Learn how to troubleshoot your dishes while still enjoying the cooking process.

👨‍🍳 Quick Tips from Real Chefs

• “Let your meat rest 5 minutes before cutting.”
• “Cold pan for bacon, hot pan for steak.”
• “Taste everything, every time.”
• “Use acid (like lemon or vinegar) to brighten bland dishes.”