During the pandemic and its aftermath, people across the world have definitely changed the way they live. Some changed careers while others learned a new skill - one of which happens to be cooking.

Cooking is a life skill that everyone should try their hand at but if you are someone who genuinely enjoys cooking and wants to make a career out of it, we recommend you nail down the basics first.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen and grab an apron because we’re breaking down some beginner skills every novice chef should have in their arsenal.

1. Preparing Chilies

Adding spice to your food practically brings your dish  and all of its inherent flavors to life but did you know that there is a proper way to prepare and handle chilies? For a proper demonstration of how to cut chilies perfectly, simple head over to YouTube and we’re confident you’ll have the techniques nailed down in no time. A word to the wise—don’t forget to wash your hands after you’re done or your mouth won’t be the only thing that “feels the heat”. If they can burn your tongue, they can definitely burn other parts of your body as well.

Pexels | You have to be extra careful when working with chilies

2.  Browning the Meat

Some of the best and most popular recipes require browning the meat before cooking it further—but what does that mean? In the world of cooking, there’s a special technique used to keep the meat juicy and stop it from drying. This technique requires the cook to pan fry the meat until the outer layer is cooked and starts giving that seared look. Once the meat is seared, pop it into the oven to finish it off before serving your mouthwatering masterpiece at the dinner table.

Pexels | Brown your meat properly and you just know it’ll taste divine

3. Nailing the Salad Dressing

A salad is incomplete without a good ol’ salad dressing, and as a cook, you have to ensure your salad dressing is one that leaves an unforgettable impression on your guests. A well-made vinaigrette can prove to be an absolute  lifesaver for your salad recipe and it takes absolutely zero effort. This salad dressing is made up of vinegar, oil, and a few optional ingredients that will compliment your main course quite nicely.

Pexels | We’d make the “salad dressing in the fridge” joke but who hasn’t heard of it at this point?

If you have a family dinner coming up, that’s the perfect chance for you to show off these newly learned cooking skills. It will not only be a fun bonding experience with family members who volunteer to help you prepare the food, but you might even pick up a few kitchen tricks from the most experienced master chef of them all—you mother!