How to learn to be a chef

Due to the advancement of media and television in particular, there are shows of various genres than are all the rage at present; especially cooking programs. Each cooking program has its own rules. Certain shows provide contestants with recipes that they are to follow. Other shows put their contestants into hot water by getting them to cook a dish with no manual after tasting a sample. Celebrities are often invited on to these shows. They either show of their cooking skills themselves or assist those that are cooking.


Many shows involve high-ranked chefs. They are held in high regard by those in the industry. They either have their own star class restaurants or they work for major establishments. Some shows feature celebrity chefs stage cook-offs against each other with the winner receiving a massive paycheck. Guest judges taste their dishes, awarding points according to whether each element of the dish fits necessary criteria.


How can you become an expert chef? To start off, you have to be familiar with basic cooking skills. Some of the important ones are the ability to cook your own recipes; knowing how to use kitchen equipment and utensils as well as proficiency in various cooking styles. They have a knack for producing food that is both delicious and beautiful to look at. Cleanliness in food preparation is emphasized.


It is of utmost importance to consider the level you wish to work at in this field(head chef or soup chef), your employer of choice( two hat restaurant or seven star hotel) and the genre of cooking that appeals to you(pastry chef or sushi chef, for example).


Professional training is important. There are many culinary institutions and hotel schools that exist for this very purpose.Cooking fundamentals taught include various culinary terminology, cooking best practices and basic equipment training. If you are an apprentice for a chef, itÕll greatly help you when you want to be employed. This will considerably boost your chances of being hired by a renowned restaurant or hotel. Culinary apprenticeships generally receive sponsorship from specialist cooking institutions.

Once you have acquired sufficient training and experience in the industry, working your way towards certification from the American Culinary Federation.  It isnÕt essential but it is a very impressive credential to hold. The advice given here will greatly help you if you intend become a professional cook. However, keep in mind; cooking is more than just an occupation. It is a science and a skill that needs to be honed. This skill is supplemented when the cook has a zeal for the vocation and this is translated in the food he or she makes. The best chefs are therefore, the most passionate ones.