Cooking on a stove can seem like a daunting task for many, especially if you often turn to takeout or pre-made meals. But, did you know that mastering the stove can save you time, money and help you prepare delicious meals that will make you feel like a professional chef?
In this blog post, we’ll dive into tips and tricks for using a stove like a boss, so you can impress your friends and family with your cooking skills. And remember – if you have any issues with your kitchen appliances, stove repairs are always just a phone call away!
Proper Temperature Control
One of the key elements of cooking on the stove is controlling the temperature. A high flame might seem like the way to go, but it can burn your food quickly. On the other hand, a low flame might take a long time to cook your dish. A medium-low flame is the best option for cooking most dishes. Additionally, using a cast iron skillet or a non-stick pan can sometimes help maintain the temperature and prevent food from sticking.
Use Proper Cooking Oils
Different oils have different cooking temperatures, so it’s essential to know which oil is best for a particular dish. Canola oil, for example, can handle high temperatures, but olive oil can only be used for medium heat dishes. Peanut oil is great for frying, while coconut oil is ideal for cooking curries. Knowing which oil to use will help your dishes shine!
Invest in Quality Cookware
Another essential tip for cooking on a stovetop like a pro is to invest in quality cookware – the materials and construction of your cookware can affect how your food cooks and tastes. Stainless steel and cast iron are great options for stovetop cooking as they heat evenly and retain heat well. Look for pots and pans with thick bottoms, sturdy handles, and tight-fitting lids for the best results.
Don’t Overcrowd Your Pan
When cooking on a stovetop, it can be tempting to fill your pan with as much food as possible. However, this can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of searing. To avoid this, make sure to give your food enough space in the pan, as this will allow your food to cook evenly and develop a nice crust. If you have a lot of food to cook, consider cooking in batches instead.
Use the Right Cooking Techniques
Cooking on a stovetop requires different techniques depending on the dish you are making – sauteing, boiling, simmering, and pan-searing are just a few of the techniques used in stovetop cooking. Make sure to understand which techniques work best for each dish you’re making. For example, sauteing is great for vegetables and pan-searing is ideal for meats.
Keep Your Station Clean
One thing professional chefs know is that keeping your station clean is crucial for successful cooking – a cluttered space can slow down the cooking process and lead to confusion. Clean as you go, and wipe down the surfaces after each use. Keep your utensils organised and within reach, and you’ll never have to scramble to find a spatula in the middle of a heated cooking session.
Preheat Your Pans
Before cooking, preheat your pans or pots for a few minutes on a low flame. This step ensures that the oils and ingredients will not stick to your pan, and food will be cooked more evenly. If cooking meat, preheating will also help with getting a crisp sear.
Experiment with Flavours
Cooking is an art form, and it’s always an opportunity to experiment with different flavours – try adding spices, citrus, and herbs to elevate the taste of the dish. Consider some classic flavour pairings like lemon-dill with fish, garlic-butter with pasta, or rosemary with poultry. Experimenting with flavour may lead to a signature dish that people will come back for again and again.
Cooking on the stove can seem overwhelming, but by taking a few essential steps, it can become a breeze
By following these tips, you can become a master of the stove and start cooking delicious meals like a professional chef. Start trying out these tips, and soon you’ll be cooking up a storm in your kitchen. Bon Appetit!