Dishes for beginners

Beginner Cooking Ideas

Hi everyone! I’m 18 and just beginning my cooking journey. So far, I’ve only made salmon, cod, and rice, but I’m eager to expand my skills with some easy recipes that also incorporate vegetables. I’m looking for meals that can teach me important cooking techniques. Also, how do you determine the right seasonings for different dishes? From what I’ve learned, black pepper, parsley, garlic powder, and ground ginger work well with a variety of ingredients. Any tips or recipe suggestions would be greatly appreciated!


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One response to “Dishes for beginners”

  1. It’s awesome that you’re diving into cooking at 18! Starting with fish and rice is a great way to build your confidence. Here are a few beginner-friendly dishes that incorporate vegetables and will help you learn important cooking techniques:

    1. Stir-Fried Vegetables: You can use a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Simply sauté them in a bit of olive oil, and add soy sauce, garlic, and a pinch of ginger for flavor. This will help you understand how to cook vegetables without losing their crunch.

    2. Oven-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables: Season chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (like rosemary or thyme). Toss chopped potatoes, carrots, and onions around the chicken on a baking sheet, and roast everything together. It’s a great way to learn about roasting and getting that crispy skin!

    3. Vegetable Soup: You can learn the basics of making a good broth and layering flavors. Start with sautéed onions, garlic, and celery, then add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and your choice of chopped veggies (like zucchini and spinach). Season with Italian herbs (basil, oregano) and salt.

    4. Tacos: Use ground turkey or beans (like black or pinto) for protein. Cook with taco seasoning (a mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic) and serve with corn tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, and any toppings you like. This will help you get comfortable with spices.

    5. Pasta Primavera: Cook pasta and sauté your choice of seasonal vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach) in olive oil. Add garlic and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This dish is great for learning how to balance flavors.

    As for seasoning, it often comes down to personal taste, but a few tips can help:

    • Herbs and spices: Fresh herbs generally pair well with lighter fare (like fish and vegetables), while heartier dishes (like meat and stews) can handle bolder flavors.
    • Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new combinations. Taste as you cook to find what you enjoy.
    • Learn about regional cuisine: Different cuisines have their own typical flavors (like Italian flavors of basil and oregano, or Mexican with cumin and chili).

    You’ll get a feel for what works together as you cook more. Enjoy the process—cooking is a wonderful skill to develop!

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