How to Start Cooking: Tips from the Pros

To be a faster, more creative cook, take a cue from restaurant chefs, J. Kenji López-Alt suggests, and rely on culinary building blocks.

“Sometimes I forget that not everyone is walking around with a mental catalog of time-saving, energy-saving, sanity-saving, life-saving, money-saving, surefire, guaranteed foolproof, plan-ahead, stress-free, problem-solving shortcuts, tips and tricks in the kitchen.”

A little prep goes a long way.

If you’re finding yourself taking three times as long to make dinner as the recipe says, you’re not alone.

Get comfortable in the kitchen with beginner-friendly tips and techniques.