So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Getting Started with the Basics of Cooking

By Esterah Shergold

If you are ready to start cooking and need to learn some cooking basics, you've come to the right place. If you are able to do simple math, follow directions, and have a bit of common sense, you will be able to learn to cook. There's no reason you wouldn't be able to whip up a decent meal on your first try.

For basic cooking you will need some pots, pans, and utensils. Every cook needs these items. While there is some equipment that goes for thousands of dollars, you can start with the basics. No matter what type of cookware you choose, make sure it has non-stick surfaces. This includes any cookie sheets and baking pans you choose. This makes clean-up and use much easier. Remember, the better the quality of the cookware, the easier the food will come off the surface.

You will also need some utensils such as knives, spoons, whisks, and measuring cups. It's also a good idea to purchase a basic set of mixing bowls. Metal bowls are much easier to clean and maintain. You will need both metal and plastic spatulas, larger forks and spoons. You should have two can openers; one that removes the inner lid so you can drain things like canned tuna, and one that removes the entire top, leaving no rough edges.

Most cooking will require a few staples that you will use almost every day when cooking common items. You should get some basic spices like salt and pepper, and some others like garlic, cinnamon, and oregano. You can find nice spice sets at kitchen supply centers and retail stores.

You will also want to stock your pantry with baking soda, baking powder, cooking oil, light brown sugar, flour, and sugar. You can find complete lists of items needed for cooking basics online. You can use these same websites to find some basic recipes, but remember to start off small. You can also order some great cook books online that will be very helpful.

You'll find that cooking charts are very helpful. They can be used as a quick reference to find out the temperature you need to cook meats and poultry at as well as how long to cook them. These charts also include other useful facts. You will find charts that provide detailed measurements for weight, volume, etc. You can find useful charts online that can be downloaded and printed. Precise measurement is important to the quality and taste of the food you prepare.

It's really helpful to get a binder so all your cooking basics information will be organized in one place. You can include information and recipes from a variety of sources like friends, family, websites, magazines, and newspapers. This is something you could pass down to your kids if it's well taken care of.

You can find these tips and many more online, at your local library, and even local retailers. Many community colleges offer classes in cooking basics, as the way up to advanced chef courses. There are many cooking career opportunities available as well.

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