Culinary Arts: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
How To Pan-Sear Sea Scallops
Seared sea scallops are always popular, and this illustrated tutorial will show you, step-by-step, exactly how to make them. It's simpler than you might think!
Seared sea scallops are always popular, and this illustrated tutorial will show you, step-by-step, exactly how to make them. It's simpler than you might think!
Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes
Want to work on your knife skills? Then you'll want to check out these descriptions and photos of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes.
Want to work on your knife skills? Then you'll want to check out these descriptions and photos of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes.
Basic Vinaigrette Recipe
This simple oil & vinegar salad dressing is also called a basic vinaigrette or basic French dressing. Variations include Italian dressing, mustard vinaigrette, herbed vinaigrette and more.
This simple oil & vinegar salad dressing is also called a basic vinaigrette or basic French dressing. Variations include Italian dressing, mustard vinaigrette, herbed vinaigrette and more.
Make the Perfect Vinaigrette
Learn how to make the perfect oil & vinegar salad dressing, also called a vinaigrette. These simple tips will help you make a great vinaigrette dressing anytime.
Learn how to make the perfect oil & vinegar salad dressing, also called a vinaigrette. These simple tips will help you make a great vinaigrette dressing anytime.
Fine Brunoise: Knife Cuts
Fine brunoise is a basic knife cut measuring 1/16 inch × 1/16 inch × 1/16 inch.
Fine brunoise is a basic knife cut measuring 1/16 inch × 1/16 inch × 1/16 inch.
How To Make Mayonnaise
This illustrated guide will show you how to make mayonnaise, with photos and instructions for each step along the way. You'll have your own homemade mayonnaise in a jiffy!
This illustrated guide will show you how to make mayonnaise, with photos and instructions for each step along the way. You'll have your own homemade mayonnaise in a jiffy!
Ratatouille Recipe
Ratatouille is a traditional French dish made of eggplants, tomatoes and zucchini. This version uses zucchini, yellow squash and toasted pine nuts.
Ratatouille is a traditional French dish made of eggplants, tomatoes and zucchini. This version uses zucchini, yellow squash and toasted pine nuts.
Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe
Spaghetti Carbonara is one of the most popular Italian pasta dishes. It combines cream, eggs, cheese and bacon — and with ingredients like that, it's guaranteed to be delicious!
Spaghetti Carbonara is one of the most popular Italian pasta dishes. It combines cream, eggs, cheese and bacon — and with ingredients like that, it's guaranteed to be delicious!
Italian Vinaigrette Recipe
This Italian vinaigrette is made with extra virgin olive oil instead of salad oil, and features minced garlic, dried oregano and chopped parsley.
This Italian vinaigrette is made with extra virgin olive oil instead of salad oil, and features minced garlic, dried oregano and chopped parsley.
How to Make Perfect Bacon
Want to make perfect crispy bacon without all the mess? Baking in the oven is the simplest, most foolproof way to cook bacon. Find out how it's done!
Want to make perfect crispy bacon without all the mess? Baking in the oven is the simplest, most foolproof way to cook bacon. Find out how it's done!
Large Dice: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
How To Use A Whetstone
A whetstone is the best way to sharpen your chef's knife. It takes some practice, but you'll save time and money doing it yourself. This simple "how-to" will get you started!
A whetstone is the best way to sharpen your chef's knife. It takes some practice, but you'll save time and money doing it yourself. This simple "how-to" will get you started!
Ratatouille: Step By Step
Ratatouille is a delicious, rustic vegetable stew made with eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini and peppers. This illustrated tutorial shows you, step by step, how to make it.
Ratatouille is a delicious, rustic vegetable stew made with eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini and peppers. This illustrated tutorial shows you, step by step, how to make it.
Culinary Measurement Conversion Tool - Cooking Conversion Calculator
Online conversion tool and measurement calculator for cooking. Convert common culinary measurement units like ounces, tablespoons, teaspoons, cups, pints, quarts.
Online conversion tool and measurement calculator for cooking. Convert common culinary measurement units like ounces, tablespoons, teaspoons, cups, pints, quarts.
How to Use A Chef's Knife
Note how the index finger is wrapped fully around the blade. The index finger and thumb should be opposite each other on either side of the blade.
Note how the index finger is wrapped fully around the blade. The index finger and thumb should be opposite each other on either side of the blade.
Beef Pot Roast Recipe
Traditional pot roast is actually cooked by braising, not roasting. This recipe uses moist-heat and long, slow cooking to prepare the beef, leaving it moist, tender and succulent.
Traditional pot roast is actually cooked by braising, not roasting. This recipe uses moist-heat and long, slow cooking to prepare the beef, leaving it moist, tender and succulent.
Cooking Methods
There are two main cooking methods, ones that involve dry heat, such as roasting and broiling, and those that involve moist heat, like poaching and braising.
There are two main cooking methods, ones that involve dry heat, such as roasting and broiling, and those that involve moist heat, like poaching and braising.
Ground Beef Safety Tips
Learn the basics of hamburger and ground beef safety including how to handle and prepare ground beef, as well as freezing and thawing techniques to help you avoid bacteria contamination and food-related illness.
Learn the basics of hamburger and ground beef safety including how to handle and prepare ground beef, as well as freezing and thawing techniques to help you avoid bacteria contamination and food-related illness.
Large Dice: Knife Cut Examples
Large dice is a basic knife cut measuring ¾ inch × ¾ inch × ¾ inch.
Large dice is a basic knife cut measuring ¾ inch × ¾ inch × ¾ inch.
Cutting Board Basics
Cutting boards come in all shapes and sizes and are made of every type of material from wood and glass to plastic and acrylic. Find out which is better: wooden cutting boards or plastic.
Cutting boards come in all shapes and sizes and are made of every type of material from wood and glass to plastic and acrylic. Find out which is better: wooden cutting boards or plastic.
How To Use A Sharpening Steel
A sharpening steel or knife steel helps keep the edge of your chef's knife aligned. Sharpening steels hone the blade of a chef's knife and keep it "true." This simple "how-to" shows you how to do it!
A sharpening steel or knife steel helps keep the edge of your chef's knife aligned. Sharpening steels hone the blade of a chef's knife and keep it "true." This simple "how-to" shows you how to do it!
How to Chop an Onion
Learn how to chop an onion the fast, easy and safe way. This illustrated tutorial shows photos of every step so you can improve your chef's knife skills.
Learn how to chop an onion the fast, easy and safe way. This illustrated tutorial shows photos of every step so you can improve your chef's knife skills.
Dry-Heat Cooking
Dry-heat cooking requires temperatures of 300°F or hotter, and it is the only way to achieve the browning of meats, vegetables and baked goods that in turn develops complex flavors and aromas.
Dry-heat cooking requires temperatures of 300°F or hotter, and it is the only way to achieve the browning of meats, vegetables and baked goods that in turn develops complex flavors and aromas.
Batonnet: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Measuring ¼ inch × ¼ inch × 2½-3 inches, the batonnet is also the starting point for the small dice. Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Measuring ¼ inch × ¼ inch × 2½-3 inches, the batonnet is also the starting point for the small dice. Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
How to Make a Batonnet Cut
This step-by-step illustrated guide to making a batonnet cut will help you improve your culinary knife skills. Check out photos and tutorials on all the basic knife cuts.
This step-by-step illustrated guide to making a batonnet cut will help you improve your culinary knife skills. Check out photos and tutorials on all the basic knife cuts.
Medium Dice: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
In the culinary arts, medium dice measures ½ inch × ½ inch × ½ inch. Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
In the culinary arts, medium dice measures ½ inch × ½ inch × ½ inch. Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Chicken Piccata
Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian recipe that really takes all the difficulty out of cooking chicken. And the simple, tangy sauce is pretty heavenly.
Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian recipe that really takes all the difficulty out of cooking chicken. And the simple, tangy sauce is pretty heavenly.
Home Fries Recipe
Home-fried potatoes, or "home fries," are a popular breakfast accompaniment. This recipe features red potatoes, onions, and red and green bell peppers.
Home-fried potatoes, or "home fries," are a popular breakfast accompaniment. This recipe features red potatoes, onions, and red and green bell peppers.
Basic Culinary Knife Cuts
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Brunoise: Knife Cut Examples
Brunoise is a basic knife cut measuring 1/8 inch × 1/8 inch × 1/8 inch.
Brunoise is a basic knife cut measuring 1/8 inch × 1/8 inch × 1/8 inch.
Buying Fresh Scallops
Given the bewildering array of names out there, from "bay" scallops to "sea" scallops to "diver" scallops, shopping for fresh scallops can be unnecessarily confusing. Find out about the different scallop sizes as well as why it's important to buy chemical-free or "dry-packed" scallops.
Given the bewildering array of names out there, from "bay" scallops to "sea" scallops to "diver" scallops, shopping for fresh scallops can be unnecessarily confusing. Find out about the different scallop sizes as well as why it's important to buy chemical-free or "dry-packed" scallops.
All About Food Safety
Everything you need to know about food safety, causes of food spoilage, food recalls and facts about food-borne bacteria and pathogens.
Everything you need to know about food safety, causes of food spoilage, food recalls and facts about food-borne bacteria and pathogens.
Crispy Hash Browns
This simple recipe for hashed brown potatoes (or hash browns) is made from shredded potatoes that are cooked in hot butter and oil until crispy.
This simple recipe for hashed brown potatoes (or hash browns) is made from shredded potatoes that are cooked in hot butter and oil until crispy.
Medium Dice: Knife Cut Example
Medium dice is a basic knife cut measuring ½ inch × ½ inch × ½ inch.
Medium dice is a basic knife cut measuring ½ inch × ½ inch × ½ inch.
The Anatomy of a Chef's Knife
A chef's knife is more than just a blade and a handle. Learn about the different parts of a chef's knife, including the tang, bolster, heel, rivets and more.
A chef's knife is more than just a blade and a handle. Learn about the different parts of a chef's knife, including the tang, bolster, heel, rivets and more.
Fine Julienne: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Food Spoilage
Food spoilage and food poisoning are caused by bacteria. Find out what makes bacteria grow, and how to stop them from contaminating your food.
Food spoilage and food poisoning are caused by bacteria. Find out what makes bacteria grow, and how to stop them from contaminating your food.
Perfect Scrambled Eggs
This simple recipe will make it easy to cook the perfect scrambled eggs every time. Light and fluffy, these scrambled eggs are sure to please.
This simple recipe will make it easy to cook the perfect scrambled eggs every time. Light and fluffy, these scrambled eggs are sure to please.
Julienne: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
How To Make Scones
If you're looking for a guide on how to make scones, this illustrated tutorial will show you how, step-by-step!
If you're looking for a guide on how to make scones, this illustrated tutorial will show you how, step-by-step!
Proper Sharpening/Honing Angle
Whether you're sharpening your chef's knife on a whetstone or using a honing steel to keep the edge aligned, the knife's edge should meet the stone or steel at an angle of 22½ degrees. These helpful graphics give you a visual guide to what 22½ degrees looks like.
Whether you're sharpening your chef's knife on a whetstone or using a honing steel to keep the edge aligned, the knife's edge should meet the stone or steel at an angle of 22½ degrees. These helpful graphics give you a visual guide to what 22½ degrees looks like.
Brunoise: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Fine Brunoise: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Moist-Heat Cooking
Moist heat cooking methods include any techniques that involve cooking with moisture — whether it's steam, water, stock, wine or some other liquid.
Moist heat cooking methods include any techniques that involve cooking with moisture — whether it's steam, water, stock, wine or some other liquid.
Julienne: Knife Cut Examples
Julienne is a basic knife cut measuring 1/8 inch × 1/8 inch × 2½ inches.
Julienne is a basic knife cut measuring 1/8 inch × 1/8 inch × 2½ inches.
How To Make Brown Stock
Brown stock is the basis for the rich, deeply flavorful classical sauces, such as the Bordelaise and Robert, that traditionally accompany red meat. This illustrated tutorial shows you, step-by-step, how to make brown stock.
Brown stock is the basis for the rich, deeply flavorful classical sauces, such as the Bordelaise and Robert, that traditionally accompany red meat. This illustrated tutorial shows you, step-by-step, how to make brown stock.
Scaling Recipes
Adjusting a recipe's ingredient quantities for the purpose of changing the number of portions the recipe serves is called "scaling" a recipe. Here's a simple formula to help you do it.
Adjusting a recipe's ingredient quantities for the purpose of changing the number of portions the recipe serves is called "scaling" a recipe. Here's a simple formula to help you do it.
Small Dice: Basic Knife Cuts & Shapes - Photo Gallery - Culinary Arts Knife Skills
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Want to see examples of all the basic culinary arts knife cuts and shapes? Check out this photo gallery of the common culinary knife cuts.
Mustard Vinaigrette Recipe
This mustard vinaigrette recipe is one of the simplest variations on the basic vinaigrette formula and a delicious salad dressing in its own right.
This mustard vinaigrette recipe is one of the simplest variations on the basic vinaigrette formula and a delicious salad dressing in its own right.
FAQ: What Is Food Poisoning?
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Basic Waffles
This tried and true waffle recipe is perfect for brunch or other special occasions, even dessert!
This tried and true waffle recipe is perfect for brunch or other special occasions, even dessert!
Basic Scones Recipe
These simple scones are light, flaky and buttery, and there are endless variations on this basic recipe.
These simple scones are light, flaky and buttery, and there are endless variations on this basic recipe.
Color-Coded Cutting Boards
Color-coded cutting boards for different ingredients can help prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen. Find out how to use color-coded cutting boards for food safety.
Color-coded cutting boards for different ingredients can help prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen. Find out how to use color-coded cutting boards for food safety.
The Food Danger Zone
The best defense against food-borne illness is stopping bacteria from growing, or at least slowing them down. Find out how to keep food safe.
The best defense against food-borne illness is stopping bacteria from growing, or at least slowing them down. Find out how to keep food safe.
Herbed Vinaigrette Recipe
This herbed vinaigrette recipe is another easy variation on the basic vinaigrette formula. It can be prepared with any one of a number of dried herbs including thyme, marjoram, basil, chives or tarragon.
This herbed vinaigrette recipe is another easy variation on the basic vinaigrette formula. It can be prepared with any one of a number of dried herbs including thyme, marjoram, basil, chives or tarragon.
Keeping Your Knife Sharp
Keeping your chef's knife sharp will make your job in the kitchen easier -- and safer, too.
Keeping your chef's knife sharp will make your job in the kitchen easier -- and safer, too.
What is Cooking?
What is cooking? At its most basic, cooking is about the ways in which food is transformed by applying heat to it.
What is cooking? At its most basic, cooking is about the ways in which food is transformed by applying heat to it.
Think You Have Food Poisoning?
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Banana Bread Recipe
One of the most popular quick breads, banana bread helps put overripe bananas, that would otherwise be destined for the garbage, to good use, making it a great recipe for anyone who likes to be frugal.
One of the most popular quick breads, banana bread helps put overripe bananas, that would otherwise be destined for the garbage, to good use, making it a great recipe for anyone who likes to be frugal.
The Chef's Jacket
The traditional white chef's jacket is among the most recognizable pieces of clothing in the world. But there's more to that unique design than you might think. A chef's jacket is actually an important tool, and each of its distinctive features serves a specific purpose.
The traditional white chef's jacket is among the most recognizable pieces of clothing in the world. But there's more to that unique design than you might think. A chef's jacket is actually an important tool, and each of its distinctive features serves a specific purpose.
Does Searing Seal in Juices?
The culinary illuminati say the idea that you "seal in" a steak's natural juices when you sear it has been debunked by science. It turns out they're wrong.
The culinary illuminati say the idea that you "seal in" a steak's natural juices when you sear it has been debunked by science. It turns out they're wrong.
Basic French Toast
This basic French toast recipe can be modified and enhanced by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest -- even rum or brandy!
This basic French toast recipe can be modified and enhanced by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest -- even rum or brandy!
Chicken & Poultry Safety Tips
These safety and food handling guidelines will give you tips on preparing and storing chicken and poultry. Get the facts about how to avoid bacteria contamination like salmonella and food-related illness. Learn how to freeze and thaw chicken, turkey or other poultry safely.
These safety and food handling guidelines will give you tips on preparing and storing chicken and poultry. Get the facts about how to avoid bacteria contamination like salmonella and food-related illness. Learn how to freeze and thaw chicken, turkey or other poultry safely.
How To Cut In Shortening
What does it mean when a recipe says to "cut in shortening" or "cut in butter?" See exactly how to cut shortening or butter into flour in this illustrated tutorial.
What does it mean when a recipe says to "cut in shortening" or "cut in butter?" See exactly how to cut shortening or butter into flour in this illustrated tutorial.
Blueberry Muffins Recipe
The key to making great blueberry muffins is not overmixing the batter. This recipe will show you how to do it.
The key to making great blueberry muffins is not overmixing the batter. This recipe will show you how to do it.
KitchenAid Food Grinder
The KitchenAid Food Grinder Attachment will make your KitchenAid stand mixer even more versatile than it already is.
The KitchenAid Food Grinder Attachment will make your KitchenAid stand mixer even more versatile than it already is.
Green Beans with Lemon
This simple green beans dish goes with anything from poultry and seafood to veal, lamb or beef. Add the lemon juice at the very end, and don't be stingy, either. It's the key to the whole dish.
This simple green beans dish goes with anything from poultry and seafood to veal, lamb or beef. Add the lemon juice at the very end, and don't be stingy, either. It's the key to the whole dish.
Roasted Beet Salad with Feta
This simple but elegant salad features red and golden beets, mild feta cheese and baby greens tossed in a light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice.
This simple but elegant salad features red and golden beets, mild feta cheese and baby greens tossed in a light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice.
How To Make Risotto
Risotto is a traditional Italian rice dish made from a short-grained, starchy variety of rice called "arborio." It's prepared by adding hot stock or broth to the rice and cooking slowly, allowing the liquid to be absorbed.
Risotto is a traditional Italian rice dish made from a short-grained, starchy variety of rice called "arborio." It's prepared by adding hot stock or broth to the rice and cooking slowly, allowing the liquid to be absorbed.
How To Make Creme Brulee
Carefully pour the custard into the ramekins. Fill all the ramekins about halfway, then top up each one a little at a time. That way, you won't run out of custard before they're all full.
Carefully pour the custard into the ramekins. Fill all the ramekins about halfway, then top up each one a little at a time. That way, you won't run out of custard before they're all full.
Puree of Carrot Soup
Also known as Potage Crecy, this classic purée of carrot soup is vibrantly colorful and aromatic.
Also known as Potage Crecy, this classic purée of carrot soup is vibrantly colorful and aromatic.
White Stock Procedure
White stock is the basis for classical sauces such as the Allemande and Suprême.
White stock is the basis for classical sauces such as the Allemande and Suprême.
Grilled Strip Steak
This recipe for broiled or grilled strip steak topped with Maître d'Hôtel butter is one of the classic steak preparations, and one of the simplest.
This recipe for broiled or grilled strip steak topped with Maître d'Hôtel butter is one of the classic steak preparations, and one of the simplest.
Cooking Classes for Kids
A number of organizations offer cooking classes for kids. Find children's culinary arts programs that are available near you.
A number of organizations offer cooking classes for kids. Find children's culinary arts programs that are available near you.
Sesame Ginger Grilled Chicken
This recipe for Grilled Chicken with Sesame and Ginger blends sweet, salty and aromatic flavors into a simple but sophisticated Asian-inspired chicken dish.
This recipe for Grilled Chicken with Sesame and Ginger blends sweet, salty and aromatic flavors into a simple but sophisticated Asian-inspired chicken dish.
How To Grind Your Own Burgers
The best way to know for sure what's in your burgers, ground beef or other ground meats is to grind it yourself. This illustrated tutorial shows you how!
The best way to know for sure what's in your burgers, ground beef or other ground meats is to grind it yourself. This illustrated tutorial shows you how!
Basic Corn Bread
This basic corn bread recipe is sweetened with honey and is a perfect accompaniment for soup or chili, and it makes a great breakfast, too. This basic recipe can be modified to include fresh or canned corn (or creamed corn), green chiles, sour cream, buttermilk, bacon, and even dried blueberries!
This basic corn bread recipe is sweetened with honey and is a perfect accompaniment for soup or chili, and it makes a great breakfast, too. This basic recipe can be modified to include fresh or canned corn (or creamed corn), green chiles, sour cream, buttermilk, bacon, and even dried blueberries!
Culinary Conversion Table
Use this handy table to calculate equivalences between units of volume such as teaspoons, tablespoons, cups, pints, quarts and so on. Useful when converting recipes to make them serve more or fewer people than how they're written -- which is called [i]scaling[/i] a recipe.
Use this handy table to calculate equivalences between units of volume such as teaspoons, tablespoons, cups, pints, quarts and so on. Useful when converting recipes to make them serve more or fewer people than how they're written -- which is called [i]scaling[/i] a recipe.
Fluffy Waffles Recipe
This waffles recipe is a bit more involved than the basic recipe, but the fluffier result is worth it.
This waffles recipe is a bit more involved than the basic recipe, but the fluffier result is worth it.
Beurre Blanc
Beurre blanc is a simple butter-based emulsified sauce that is delicious with practically any fish or seafood.
Beurre blanc is a simple butter-based emulsified sauce that is delicious with practically any fish or seafood.
How To Make Roux
One of the most common thickeners for sauces and soups is a mixture of equal parts fat and flour called roux. This illustrated tutorial shows you how to make a roux using clarified butter.
One of the most common thickeners for sauces and soups is a mixture of equal parts fat and flour called roux. This illustrated tutorial shows you how to make a roux using clarified butter.
Pan-Seared Sea Scallops #1
Seared sea scallops are always popular, and this step-by-step tutorial will show you exactly how to make them -- it's simpler than you might think!
Seared sea scallops are always popular, and this step-by-step tutorial will show you exactly how to make them -- it's simpler than you might think!
Small Dice: Knife Cut Examples
Small dice is a basic knife cut measuring ¼ inch × ¼ inch × ¼ inch.
Small dice is a basic knife cut measuring ¼ inch × ¼ inch × ¼ inch.
The Components of Stock
Preparing high-quality stocks requires understanding all the components that go into a stock, and how each one affects the final product.
Preparing high-quality stocks requires understanding all the components that go into a stock, and how each one affects the final product.
Blue Cheese Dressing Recipe
One of the most popular of the mayonnaise-based salad dressings, Blue Cheese dressing is easy to make. It's fantastic on a chilled wedge of iceberg lettuce, and it makes a great dip, too!
One of the most popular of the mayonnaise-based salad dressings, Blue Cheese dressing is easy to make. It's fantastic on a chilled wedge of iceberg lettuce, and it makes a great dip, too!
Cutting Board Controversy
Trying to find out if plastic cutting boards are really better than wood? The answer is a no-brainer. Get the facts about wood and plastic cutting boards.
Trying to find out if plastic cutting boards are really better than wood? The answer is a no-brainer. Get the facts about wood and plastic cutting boards.
Grilling & Broiling
Grilling and broiling are dry-heat cooking methods that rely on heat being conducted through the air from an open flame.
Grilling and broiling are dry-heat cooking methods that rely on heat being conducted through the air from an open flame.
Batonnet: Knife Cut Examples
Batonnet is a basic knife cut measuring ¼ inch × ¼ inch × 2½-3 inches.
Batonnet is a basic knife cut measuring ¼ inch × ¼ inch × 2½-3 inches.
Fine Julienne: Knife Cuts
Fine julienne is a basic knife cut measuring 1/16 inch × 1/16 inch × 2 inches.
Fine julienne is a basic knife cut measuring 1/16 inch × 1/16 inch × 2 inches.
Salmon with Ratatouille
Salmon is a great fish for dry-heat cooking methods like sautéeing because it is naturally moist. This simple dish pairs salmon with a classic ratatouille.
Salmon is a great fish for dry-heat cooking methods like sautéeing because it is naturally moist. This simple dish pairs salmon with a classic ratatouille.
Brown Stock Procedure
Brown stock is the basis for the rich, deeply flavorful classical sauces, such as the Bordelaise and Robert, that traditionally accompany red meat.
Brown stock is the basis for the rich, deeply flavorful classical sauces, such as the Bordelaise and Robert, that traditionally accompany red meat.
Tilapia with Bacon & Capers
Bacon, grape tomatoes, capers and lemon juice round out this delicious sautéed tilapia dish, and the caramelized red onions add sweetness and color.
Bacon, grape tomatoes, capers and lemon juice round out this delicious sautéed tilapia dish, and the caramelized red onions add sweetness and color.
Croque Monsieur
Want to take a grilled cheese sandwich to the next level? A little bit of béchamel sauce is what makes the croque monsieur, a French bistro mainstay, so special.
Want to take a grilled cheese sandwich to the next level? A little bit of béchamel sauce is what makes the croque monsieur, a French bistro mainstay, so special.
Pick A Culinary School: 5 Tips
If you're interested in a career as a chef, a culinary school degree is something to consider. Here are 5 tips to help you choose the right culinary school.
If you're interested in a career as a chef, a culinary school degree is something to consider. Here are 5 tips to help you choose the right culinary school.
Heat Transfer
Heat transfer is the process by which we get food hot. The two main methods of heat transfer are convection and conduction.
Heat transfer is the process by which we get food hot. The two main methods of heat transfer are convection and conduction.
Culinary Arts - Recipes
An index of Recipes for the Culinary Arts guide site.
An index of Recipes for the Culinary Arts guide site.
Rice Pilaf Recipe
In the "pilaf method," uncooked rice is sautéed, hot stock is added, then the rice is braised in the oven until all the liquid is absorbed.
In the "pilaf method," uncooked rice is sautéed, hot stock is added, then the rice is braised in the oven until all the liquid is absorbed.
Basic Vegetable Stock Recipe
Compared with the procedure for making stocks from bones, making vegetable stocks is a snap. In fact, the total cooking time shouldn't exceed 45 minutes.
Compared with the procedure for making stocks from bones, making vegetable stocks is a snap. In fact, the total cooking time shouldn't exceed 45 minutes.
Bell Pepper Coulis Recipe
This recipe for bell pepper coulis is a nice accompaniment for roasted meats and makes a tasty and colorful garnish for puréed soups.
This recipe for bell pepper coulis is a nice accompaniment for roasted meats and makes a tasty and colorful garnish for puréed soups.
Ranch Dressing Recipe
One of the most popular of the mayonnaise-based salad dressings, Ranch Dressing is easy to make. And as anyone who's ever eaten an onion ring knows, it makes a great dip, too!
One of the most popular of the mayonnaise-based salad dressings, Ranch Dressing is easy to make. And as anyone who's ever eaten an onion ring knows, it makes a great dip, too!
Chicken Marengo Recipe
Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte's chef created this dish following the battle of Marengo in 1800. Napoleon was a tough boss, so if it was good enough for him, you know it must be pretty good.
Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte's chef created this dish following the battle of Marengo in 1800. Napoleon was a tough boss, so if it was good enough for him, you know it must be pretty good.
Mother's Day Brunch Menus
Here are a few menu choices for the perfect Mother's Day brunch. Choose between scrambled eggs or frittata, French toast or waffles, and hash browns or home fries.
Here are a few menu choices for the perfect Mother's Day brunch. Choose between scrambled eggs or frittata, French toast or waffles, and hash browns or home fries.
Puree of Celery Soup Recipe
This classic purée of celery soup is beautifully aromatic. You can make it either with celery or celery root (also sometimes called "celeriac.").
This classic purée of celery soup is beautifully aromatic. You can make it either with celery or celery root (also sometimes called "celeriac.").
Bacon Wrapped Pork
The idea of bacon-wrapped pork is so audacious that a lot of people wouldn't dare try it. But they're missing out. See this recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions.
The idea of bacon-wrapped pork is so audacious that a lot of people wouldn't dare try it. But they're missing out. See this recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions.
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
The creamy, almost sweet flavor of fingerling potatoes make them a delicious alternative to white potatoes or baby potatoes. They go well with meat, poultry, even fish.
The creamy, almost sweet flavor of fingerling potatoes make them a delicious alternative to white potatoes or baby potatoes. They go well with meat, poultry, even fish.
Sachet d'Épices
A sachet d'épices is a small cheesecloth sack of herbs and spices used to add flavor to stocks.
A sachet d'épices is a small cheesecloth sack of herbs and spices used to add flavor to stocks.
Pan-Seared Sea Scallops #2
Seared sea scallops are always popular, and this illustrated tutorial will show you, step-by-step, exactly how to make them. It's simpler than you might think!
Seared sea scallops are always popular, and this illustrated tutorial will show you, step-by-step, exactly how to make them. It's simpler than you might think!
Tomato Ketchup Recipe
This recipe for tomato ketchup uses roasted tomatoes for extra depth of flavor, as well as three kinds of vinegar.
This recipe for tomato ketchup uses roasted tomatoes for extra depth of flavor, as well as three kinds of vinegar.
Searing & Sealing, Part 3
The culinary illuminati say there's no way searing meat can "seal in" its natural juices. It turns out they're wrong. Read Part 3 of the article.
The culinary illuminati say there's no way searing meat can "seal in" its natural juices. It turns out they're wrong. Read Part 3 of the article.
FAQ: How Bacteria Get in Food
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Zucchini Ribbon Noodles
This refreshing summertime dish features thin ribbons of zucchini served with a simple sauce made of puréed red bell peppers called a "coulis."
This refreshing summertime dish features thin ribbons of zucchini served with a simple sauce made of puréed red bell peppers called a "coulis."
How To Caramelize Onions
Keep the onions moving around the pan at first so that they don't burn. They'll cook down quite a bit in volue, so it's OK if the pan seems overfull at the beginning.
Keep the onions moving around the pan at first so that they don't burn. They'll cook down quite a bit in volue, so it's OK if the pan seems overfull at the beginning.
How To Clarify Butter
Clarified butter is the result of melting butter and skimming off or straining the milk solids, leaving only the translucent golden-yellow butterfat. This illustrated tutorial shows you how to make it.
Clarified butter is the result of melting butter and skimming off or straining the milk solids, leaving only the translucent golden-yellow butterfat. This illustrated tutorial shows you how to make it.
Top Recipes June 23
Here are the most popular recipes from the Culinary Arts site for the week of June 23, 2008.
Here are the most popular recipes from the Culinary Arts site for the week of June 23, 2008.
Keeping Your Cooler Cool
Insulated coolers or ice chests keep food cold and help prevent food poisoning on summer picnics, cookouts, outdoor grilling and barbecuing.
Insulated coolers or ice chests keep food cold and help prevent food poisoning on summer picnics, cookouts, outdoor grilling and barbecuing.
Béchamel Sauce Recipe
Béchamel is a standard white sauce and one of the five "leading sauces" of classical cuisine. It's the starting point for other classic sauces such as the Crème sauce and the Mornay sauce.
Béchamel is a standard white sauce and one of the five "leading sauces" of classical cuisine. It's the starting point for other classic sauces such as the Crème sauce and the Mornay sauce.
How to Core and Seed a Pepper
Learn how to remove the core, seeds and membranes from a bell pepper without all the drama. This illustrated tutorial shows photos of every step.
Learn how to remove the core, seeds and membranes from a bell pepper without all the drama. This illustrated tutorial shows photos of every step.
Roasting & Baking
Roasting and baking are forms of dry-heat cooking that use hot, dry air to cook food. Like other dry-heat cooking methods, roasting and baking brown the surface of the food, which in turn develops complex flavors and aromas.
Roasting and baking are forms of dry-heat cooking that use hot, dry air to cook food. Like other dry-heat cooking methods, roasting and baking brown the surface of the food, which in turn develops complex flavors and aromas.
Who's At Risk of Food Illness?
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Corn & Crab Chowder
This classic Corn & Crab Chowder will warm you through and through, even on the bitterest of winter days.
This classic Corn & Crab Chowder will warm you through and through, even on the bitterest of winter days.
Chicken Piccata Recipe
Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian recipe that really takes all the difficulty out of cooking chicken. And the simple, tangy sauce is pretty heavenly.
Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian recipe that really takes all the difficulty out of cooking chicken. And the simple, tangy sauce is pretty heavenly.
Deep-Fat Frying
Since deep-frying involves submerging the food in hot, liquid fat, it might take some time to get used to the idea that it's actually a form of dry-heat cooking.
Since deep-frying involves submerging the food in hot, liquid fat, it might take some time to get used to the idea that it's actually a form of dry-heat cooking.
All About Butter
Butter is the most prized cooking fat because of its delicious flavor and rich, creamy mouth-feel. Learn all about butter and how to cook with it.
Butter is the most prized cooking fat because of its delicious flavor and rich, creamy mouth-feel. Learn all about butter and how to cook with it.
Spinach & Bacon Frittata
A frittata is an Italian-style flat omelet that's baked in a skillet. This recipe features spinach, bacon and cheddar cheese.
A frittata is an Italian-style flat omelet that's baked in a skillet. This recipe features spinach, bacon and cheddar cheese.
How To Caramelize Creme Brulee
Crème brûlée is one of the most elegant desserts around. But it's the marvelous caramelized sugar on top that transforms this baked custard dish into the culinary classic it is. In part two of this tutorial, you'll learn how to caramelize a crème brûlée.
Crème brûlée is one of the most elegant desserts around. But it's the marvelous caramelized sugar on top that transforms this baked custard dish into the culinary classic it is. In part two of this tutorial, you'll learn how to caramelize a crème brûlée.
Butane Culinary Torch
A culinary torch enables chefs to direct a precise jet of flame onto a custard (for crème brûlée), gratin, meringue or many other items. For instance, with the increasing popularity of "sous vide" cooking, many chefs find a torch useful for browning the food before serving.
A culinary torch enables chefs to direct a precise jet of flame onto a custard (for crème brûlée), gratin, meringue or many other items. For instance, with the increasing popularity of "sous vide" cooking, many chefs find a torch useful for browning the food before serving.
Braising & Stewing
Braising is a form of moist-heat cooking in which the item to be cooked is first seared and then partially covered with liquid and simmered slowly at a relatively low temperature.
Braising is a form of moist-heat cooking in which the item to be cooked is first seared and then partially covered with liquid and simmered slowly at a relatively low temperature.
Top Recipes July 14
Here are the most popular recipes from the Culinary Arts site for the week of July 14, 2008.
Here are the most popular recipes from the Culinary Arts site for the week of July 14, 2008.
Key Food Handling Temperatures
This table illustrates the Food Temperature Danger Zone and the other key temperatures for safe food handling.
This table illustrates the Food Temperature Danger Zone and the other key temperatures for safe food handling.
FAQ: Food Temp Danger Zone
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Millions of cases of foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, occur each year. Most cases are preventable through proper cooking and handling of food. Find out more about preventing food poisoning in your kitchen.
Slow Cookers and Food Safety
Slow cookers are a wonderful convenience, but anytime you're dealing with low temperatures over long time periods, food safety is a concern. These simple slow-cooker safety guidelines will help keep you and your family safe.
Slow cookers are a wonderful convenience, but anytime you're dealing with low temperatures over long time periods, food safety is a concern. These simple slow-cooker safety guidelines will help keep you and your family safe.
How To Make Toasted Croutons
These simple toasted croutons make a great garnish for practically any soup, and they add a delicious crunch, too. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to show you how to make them.
These simple toasted croutons make a great garnish for practically any soup, and they add a delicious crunch, too. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to show you how to make them.
Searing & Sealing, Part 2
The culinary illuminati say there's no way searing meat can "seal in" its natural juices. It turns out they're wrong. Read Part 2 of the article.
The culinary illuminati say there's no way searing meat can "seal in" its natural juices. It turns out they're wrong. Read Part 2 of the article.
Basic Mayonnaise Recipe
This basic mayonnaise makes a great sandwich spread, and can form the base for salad dressings like Blue Cheese, Thousand Island and Ranch.
This basic mayonnaise makes a great sandwich spread, and can form the base for salad dressings like Blue Cheese, Thousand Island and Ranch.
Sautéed Black Bass
Maître d'Hôtel Butter, or compound butter, really enhances pan-fried or sautéed fish. Just top the hot fillet with a pat of compound butter and let it form its own sauce as it melts.
Maître d'Hôtel Butter, or compound butter, really enhances pan-fried or sautéed fish. Just top the hot fillet with a pat of compound butter and let it form its own sauce as it melts.
Easy Banana Bread
Banana bread lets you put overripe bananas, that would otherwise be destined for the garbage, to good use.
Banana bread lets you put overripe bananas, that would otherwise be destined for the garbage, to good use.
Listeria monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes is found in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, milk, soil, leaf vegetables; it can grow slowly at refrigerator temperatures.
Listeria monocytogenes is found in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, milk, soil, leaf vegetables; it can grow slowly at refrigerator temperatures.
Kosher Salt
Kosher salt is a coarse-grained salt that chefs like because it's easier to handle than ordinary table salt, and it adheres to food products better, too.
Kosher salt is a coarse-grained salt that chefs like because it's easier to handle than ordinary table salt, and it adheres to food products better, too.
Pastry Dough Recipe
Pastry dough, also called "short dough," is a light, sweet, crumbly dough used for making tarts and pies.
Pastry dough, also called "short dough," is a light, sweet, crumbly dough used for making tarts and pies.
Pasta Puttanesca
Pasta puttanesca is a dish notable for the fact that it can be prepared with ingredients that most people in Italy are likely to have in their pantries. This version features spaghettini, or thin spaghetti.
Pasta puttanesca is a dish notable for the fact that it can be prepared with ingredients that most people in Italy are likely to have in their pantries. This version features spaghettini, or thin spaghetti.
Baked Cod with Beurre Blanc
This elegant combination of a basic white fish like cod with a simple butter-based sauce like beurre blanc is a starting point for any number of variations.
This elegant combination of a basic white fish like cod with a simple butter-based sauce like beurre blanc is a starting point for any number of variations.
Herbes de Provence Recipe
Herbes de Provence are a mixture of dried thyme, marjoram, savory and various other herbs, but it's the dried lavender that gives this blend of summer herbs its unexpected magic.
Herbes de Provence are a mixture of dried thyme, marjoram, savory and various other herbs, but it's the dried lavender that gives this blend of summer herbs its unexpected magic.
Arborio Rice
Arborio rice is a short-grained variety of rice of Italian origin whose high starch content makes it the rice of choice for making risotto.
Arborio rice is a short-grained variety of rice of Italian origin whose high starch content makes it the rice of choice for making risotto.
Thick French Toast
Because it's so thick, this French toast is made in two steps: first we brown it on the griddle, and then finish the cooking in the oven to ensure that the custard is fully cooked.
Because it's so thick, this French toast is made in two steps: first we brown it on the griddle, and then finish the cooking in the oven to ensure that the custard is fully cooked.
French Toast Photo #1
This photo gallery features recipes for chicken marengo, grilled sesame chicken, rice pilaf, herbed asparagus, scrambled eggs, waffles, French toast and more.
This photo gallery features recipes for chicken marengo, grilled sesame chicken, rice pilaf, herbed asparagus, scrambled eggs, waffles, French toast and more.
Poaching & Simmering
Poaching, simmering and boiling are three different methods for cooking food by submerging it in hot water (or another waterlike liquid like stock).
Poaching, simmering and boiling are three different methods for cooking food by submerging it in hot water (or another waterlike liquid like stock).
How To Make Pureed Soups
Though there are many variations and exceptions to the following procedure, these are the general steps for making basic pureed soups from fresh vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, celery, asparagus and so on.
Though there are many variations and exceptions to the following procedure, these are the general steps for making basic pureed soups from fresh vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, celery, asparagus and so on.
Russian Dressing Recipe
There's no sandwich more delicious than corned beef and cole slaw on rye bread with Russian dressing. Find out how to make your own Russian Dressing!
There's no sandwich more delicious than corned beef and cole slaw on rye bread with Russian dressing. Find out how to make your own Russian Dressing!
Thousand Island Dressing
These days, Thousand Island dressing is probably more popular as a sandwich spread than a salad dressing. For a real treat, try it on your next burger!
These days, Thousand Island dressing is probably more popular as a sandwich spread than a salad dressing. For a real treat, try it on your next burger!
College of DuPage
College of DuPage offers ACF-accredited Associate degree programs in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts, as well as an Associate degree in Foodservice Administration.
College of DuPage offers ACF-accredited Associate degree programs in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts, as well as an Associate degree in Foodservice Administration.