Mastering a few fundamental techniques will dramatically improve your cooking, no matter what cuisine you’re exploring. Here are five techniques that will serve you well in any kitchen.

1. Proper Knife Skills

Why it matters: Good knife skills make cooking faster, safer, and more enjoyable.

Key points:

  • Hold the knife with a firm grip, index finger and thumb on the blade
  • Use a rocking motion, keeping the tip on the cutting board
  • Keep your fingers curled under, knuckles forward when holding food

Practice with: Onions, carrots, and herbs

2. Building Flavor with Aromatics

Why it matters: The foundation of most great dishes starts with aromatics.

The holy trinity:

  • French: Onions, carrots, celery
  • Spanish: Onions, garlic, tomatoes
  • Cajun: Onions, bell peppers, celery

Technique: Sauté over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Seasoning in Layers

Why it matters: Seasoning throughout the cooking process builds complex, well-balanced flavors.

How to do it:

  • Season proteins before cooking
  • Season aromatics as they cook
  • Taste and adjust at the end
  • Remember: you can always add more, but you can’t take it away

4. Understanding Heat Control

Why it matters: Temperature control is the difference between perfect and overcooked food.

Key concepts:

  • High heat: Searing meats, stir-frying
  • Medium-high: Most sautéing
  • Medium: Cooking vegetables, reducing sauces
  • Low: Braising, simmering sauces

5. Mise en Place

Why it matters: Having everything prepped and organized makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Before you start cooking:

  • Read the entire recipe
  • Prep all ingredients
  • Gather all tools and equipment
  • Set up your workspace

Try This: Pick one technique and focus on it for a week. You’ll be amazed at how much your cooking improves!