Mise
en Place; Everything in its Place
>> Back to Tips / Techniques
Have you ever
jumped right into a recipe, only to find out we are missing one
or more of the key ingredients? Perhaps you decide to chop the
garlic while the onions are sautéing. Further down the
recipe you discover another step which needs to be done before
the onions and garlic overcook. The result: frustration, stress,
and wasted time.
What makes
the cooking process on those cooking shows and restaurant kitchens
seem so effortless? Successful cooks and chefs all over the world
apply a concept known as Mise en Place (MEEZ-ahn-plahs). The
French definition means “everything in its place,” and
it is a culinary term that refers to preparing and pre-measuring
ingredients ahead of time. However, Mise en Place is more than
just a term; it is a concept or a state-of-mind that when applied
to any kitchen, will result in a smooth-flowing, time saving
cooking process. This is especially beneficial when preparing
more than one recipe.
Mise en Place
involves several steps which will insure the necessary ingredients
and tools are at your fingertips. The actual cooking process
will be much quicker, smoother and more enjoyable!
- Read
the entire recipe. Determine which ingredients and equipment
you
will need and have them nearby.
- Prepare
the workspace.
• Start with a clean kitchen.
• Empty the dishwasher and remove unnecessary items off the counter tops.
- Do the
work.
• Preheat the oven, prepare pans, etc
• Chop, dice, grate, and sift; pre-measure ingredients and put into small
bowls. Set the bowls on a tray to easily transport them to the cooking area.
- Clean
as you go. This is the most important step!
After dinner,
simply load the dinner dishes in the dishwasher and relax!
Incorporating the simple concept of Mise en Place into your preparation process
will transform your cooking experience to a more efficient and enjoyable one.
In turn, we hope this leads to the inclusion of healthier and more flavorful
recipes into your cooking repertoire!
|
