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Steps to becoming a chef

By Jean Cox


As there are many channels on most cable and satellite systems nowadays, many popular programs have cropped up; cooking shows in particular. Each cooking program has its own rules. Certain shows provide contestants with recipes that they are to follow. In other cases, you are expected to taste a given dish and replicate it with no recipe to assist you. Celebrities are often invited on to these shows. They either demonstrate by cooking one of their own recipes or simply assist the chefs in their cooking endeavors.

Some shows feature professional chefs. They are renowned around the culinary universe. They also have prior experience working in two-hat and three-hat restaurants. At present, there are shows where professional chefs themselves challenge each other in cook-offs, usually for a hefty sum of prize money. Guest judges taste their dishes, awarding points according to whether each element of the dish fits necessary criteria.

In order to become a professional cook, there is a process to be followed. The first step is learning the basics of working in the kitchen. 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. They also ensure that the area in which food is being prepared in is sanitary.

You should be sure of the level of chef you wish to be, the type of place you'd work best in as well as the cuisine that best suits your ability.

Professional training is important. Several cooking institutions provide such training.Cooking fundamentals taught include various culinary terminology, cooking best practices and basic equipment training. If you are an apprentice for a chef, it'll 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 isn't essential but it is a very impressive credential to hold. All the steps given here will prove to be very useful if professional cooking is your chosen career path. However, keep in mind; cooking is more than just an occupation. It is a science and a skill that needs to be honed. If you have a passion for it, it'll translate in your cooking and result in a dish with unparalleled taste and presentation. This is what truly makes a great chef.




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