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COOKING TIPS

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  1. Preheat your oven properly before baking to ensure even cooking and better results.

  2. Always read the entire recipe before starting to avoid surprises and mistakes during the cooking process.

  3. Use a sharp knife for safer and more precise cutting, reducing the risk of accidents.

  4. Season your food at different stages of cooking to layer flavors and enhance the overall taste.

  5. Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your meat is cooked to the right internal temperature, avoiding undercooking or overcooking.

  6. When cooking pasta, use a large pot with plenty of water and add salt to enhance the pasta's flavor.

  7. Allow meat to rest after cooking to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

  8. Keep your workspace clean and organized to make cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

  9. Use fresh herbs whenever possible, as they add brightness and complexity to your dishes.

  10. Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly to achieve the desired flavor profile.

  11. When sautéing, make sure your pan and oil are hot before adding the ingredients to prevent sticking.

  12. Use a microplane grater for zesting citrus fruits, garlic, and ginger to extract maximum flavor with minimal effort.

  13. To avoid crying while chopping onions, refrigerate or freeze them for a few minutes before cutting.

  14. Make your own stock or broth and freeze it in batches for convenient use in various recipes.

  15. When baking, measure ingredients accurately, especially when it comes to flour and leavening agents.

  16. For crispy roasted vegetables, space them out on the baking sheet to prevent steaming.

  17. Save and freeze leftover wine in ice cube trays to use in cooking sauces and dishes that call for wine.

  18. When frying, use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the right oil temperature for perfectly cooked and not greasy food.

  19. Cook rice with a 1:2 rice-to-water ratio and resist the urge to stir it during cooking to achieve fluffy rice.

  20. When making sauces or soups, use a roux (butter and flour mixture) to thicken and add depth to the dish.

  21. Blanch vegetables before freezing them to preserve their color, flavor, and nutrients.

  22. To prevent sticky pasta, stir it immediately after adding it to boiling water and occasionally while cooking.

  23. To ripen avocados quickly, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple.

  24. Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

  25. Make your own spice blends at home to customize flavors and reduce reliance on store-bought seasoning packets.

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© 2025 by Country Cooking with Inspiration - Francine Hawkins-Alegeh

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