Feeling Overwhelmed When it Comes to Cooking? Try this!

        I totally understand how people can feel overwhelmed when it comes to cooking. Planning, shopping, cooking, and cleaning up from cooking are all part of the process. When I first started cooking for myself, these are the three things that would help me while I was cooking.

1. Pick a recipe that has only a few ingredients!

• Picking a recipe that has only a few ingredients will make the learning process much easier. Starting with a simple soup or slow cooker recipe is a great idea. I love having a handful of recipes on hand that are not complicated and can easily be done. I love making pea soup or a breakfast hash! 

2. Prepare all of your ingredients ahead of time!

• This is called “mise en place.” This is a culinary term that refers to all of the ingredients being prepared. If you do this before you start cooking, it will make it so much easier on yourself. If your recipe calls for diced onion, minced garlic, and drained and rinsed garbanzo beans, be sure to prepare all of that. I bought small bowls so that I can prepare all of my ingredients and put them in bowls so everything is in reach when I need it. When a recipe is complex or needs to be done quickly, preparing everything beforehand will make the process much easier.

3.Do not rush! Take your time!

• Yes, this seems obvious. It also makes a world of a difference when you are not rushing. Taking your time allows you to focus on each task at hand. This is important, trust me!