Organize Yo’self
“In culinary school, first quarter everyday before we would begin to cook my chef instructor would say, ‘Rule number one, follow directions’”.
When I am really excited about cooking or learning something new, I find a recipe to be a guideline. That is exactly what a recipe is - a guideline. A big part of cooking is the life and engagement you add. This all starts before the cooking begins. Rule number one: follow directions. I heard this for five months straight in culinary school. Your first step is to read that recipe to the end. As you read, take in all the ingredients - visualize the preparing and cooking - the textures, smells, sounds, and tastes. Create a mental picture. The directions will give you a sense of time it will take to make the recipe and times you will need. Now, with your note book and pencil, read the recipe again and take notes. I like to write down the ingredients and amounts. If there is any question about an ingredient or technique, I personally take the time to look into them. Be mindful of the order, the methods, and the times. I usually take the time to write the recipe in my own words, so I have a strong sense and my own personal map of what I am about to put into action. When I have to stop and look something up while the pans are sizzling away, the panic kick, usually while something else is burning or falling apart, and I miss out in the joy. Know that being prepared helps your flow and you will enjoy the process so much more.
Once you have your plan and feel solid about your recipe(s), begin organizing your ingredients and equipment. “Mise en place,” you will hear us chefs say this… or, “gather your mise”. It is a French phrase meaning “to put in place”. This is key to set yourself up for success. You can do it! Start pulling out ingredients from your fridge that need to be at room temperature first.
Do all the prep next like, washing, peeling, chopping, shifting, and measuring. Place all your measured ingredients into bowls, plates, and containers to make it manageable to move the ingredients when it is time. Man! It just feels so good, to see your labor out on display in the dishes you enjoy using.
Next, pull out all the equipment you need for your recipe. Have the smaller tools like bowls, pans, spoons, and spatulas in an area that is easy to reach. If needed, go ahead and preheat that oven arrange the racks. Cooking just feels so satisfyingly, when you have everything set up, when you need them, right at your fingertips. Now you can just flow.
