10 Simple Tips That Will Make You a Better Cook
By: Leah Rodrigues
Published: July 2, 2011

1. The sharper the knife, the less you cry.  More accidents happen with a dull knife than a sharp one.  Keep an edge on your blade with a honing steel.
2. Taste as you go, even if you are following a recipe.  Taste is subjective and you want to make food that is appealing to your own buds.
3. Read recipes all the way through before starting to cook.  This way you can catch any errors in the recipe.
4. Prep all your ingredients before hand .  This way you are organized and can make sure you don't forget anything.
5. After blanching vegetables, make sure to plunge them in ice water so they can remain bright green.
6.  When eating lesser cuts of steak, make sure to slice the steaks against the grain.  In other words, in the opposite direction of the meat fibers to ensure tenderness.
7. To cook pasta properly, liberally salt the water and do not add oil to the water.  It will keep the sauce from sticking to the sauce.
8. Always let your meat rest after taking it off the grill.  This will allow the juices to redistribute back into the meat.
9. To get more juice out of your citrus fruits by placing them in the microwave for 10 seconds.
10. Don't overcrowd the pan when browning meat or veggies- it will make your food steam.