Everyone has to start somewhere. And if you’re just starting out in the kitchen, you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we’ve all been there. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 10 kitchen hacks that will make you look like a master chef in no time!

From learning the basics of knife skills to mastering the art of flavor pairing, these kitchen hacks will have you cooking like a pro in no time. So, whether you’re a kitchen novice or an experienced cook, these tips are sure to help you take your culinary skills to the next level.

1. Keep your knives sharp:

A dull knife can make cooking a frustrating and unsafe experience. Invest in a good quality knife sharpener and keep your knives sharp.

2. Learn the correct knife skills:

Knowing how to slice, dice, and chop vegetables and meat properly will not only make your cooking look better but also improve the texture and flavor of your dishes.

3. Use a meat thermometer:

A meat thermometer is an essential tool for getting perfectly cooked meat. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures that your meat is cooked to a safe temperature.

4. Preheat your pans:

Preheating your pans is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on meat or a crispy crust on your baked goods.

5. Taste as you go:

Don’t be afraid to taste your food as you cook. Adjust seasoning and flavors as necessary. This will help you develop your palate and improve your cooking skills.

6. Use a Tablespoon of baking soda to make meat tender:

Baking soda is an effective way to tenderize meat. Simply add a tablespoon of baking soda to the water you are using to soak the meat, and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This will help to break down the tough fibers in the meat, making it more tender.

7. Focus on flavor pairing:

Learning to pair flavors together can elevate your cooking to the next level. Experiment with sweet, savory, spicy, and sour flavor combinations.

8. Keep your workspace clean:

A clean and organized workspace makes cooking more enjoyable and safer. Take a few minutes to clean as you go, and you’ll save yourself time and hassle in the long run.

9. Roll citrus on the Counter before juicing:

Maximizing juice yield can be achieved by rolling citrus fruits on a flat surface with moderate pressure before juicing. Specifically, oranges, lemons, and limes have been proven to benefit from this technique as it helps to release the juices.

10. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes:

Cooking is all about trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. Every mistake is a learning experience, and it will help you become a better cook in the long run.