Becoming A Professional Cook

By George Dodson


With improved communications and television in particular, cooking programs are now more popular than ever. Each cooking program has its own rules. Some provide their contestants with recipes 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.

Some shows feature professional chefs. Their mere presences command huge respect in the culinary world. They either have their own star class restaurants or they work for major establishments. Some chefs cook against each other for a prize. The food will be judged by external parties in terms of presentation, taste and innovation.

In order to become a professional cook, there is a process to be followed. To start off, you have to be familiar with basic cooking skills. Developing recipes on your own, handling all types of equipment and knowing many cooking styles are some of the basics that all expert chefs have. They ensure every dish produced is as visually appealing as it is tasty. Hygiene in the kitchen is capital to them

Knowing what sort of chef you want to be, whether you want to cater on a large or small scale and the type of food you want to cook is mandatory.

Professional training is mandatory. There are many culinary institutions and hotel schools that exist for this very purpose.The basics of cooking include learning general terms, methods of cooking and commonly-used utensils and appliances. An apprenticeship to supplement your initial fundamental training will give you experience in the industry and allow to hone the skills you learn. This will considerably boost your chances of being hired by a renowned restaurant or hotel. Famous cooking schools sponsor apprenticeships for this reason.

Once you have acquired sufficient training and experience in the industry, working your way towards certification from the American Culinary Federation. It isn*t a must for you to receive employment but it will improve your overall image. 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 an art that has to be developed and pruned. If you have a passion for it, it*ll translate in your cooking and result in a dish with unparalleled taste and presentation. What makes a truly legendary chef, therefore, is skill and zeal.




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