Cooking Food

key notes :

What is Cooking?

Cooking is the process of preparing food by applying heat. It helps in making food safe to eat and enhancing its flavor.

Why Do We Cook Food?

• To Make Food Safe: Cooking kills harmful germs and bacteria that can cause illnesses.
• To Improve Taste: Cooking enhances the flavors, making the food more enjoyable to eat.
• To Make Food Digestible: Cooking softens food, making it easier for our bodies to digest.
• To Preserve Nutrients: Some cooking methods can help preserve the nutrients in food.

Common Cooking Methods

• Boiling: Cooking food in water at high temperatures (e.g., rice, potatoes).

• Frying: Cooking food in hot oil (e.g., chips, fried fish).

• Grilling: Cooking food over direct heat (e.g., grilled vegetables, kebabs).

• Baking: Cooking food in an oven (e.g., cakes, bread).

• Steaming: Cooking food using steam (e.g., dumplings, steamed vegetables).

Raw vs. Cooked Food

• Some foods like fruits and certain vegetables can be eaten raw.
• Most meats, grains, and beans need to be cooked to make them safe and digestible.

Cooking Safety Tips

• Wash Hands and Ingredients: Always wash hands and food items before cooking.

• Use Clean Utensils: Ensure that utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces are clean.

• Be Careful with Heat: Avoid touching hot surfaces or utensils to prevent burns.
• Use Proper Cooking Temperatures: Cook food at the right temperature to kill germs.

Healthy Cooking

• Use less oil and avoid frying too often.
• Prefer boiling, steaming, or grilling over frying for a healthier meal.
• Include vegetables and fruits in cooked meals to add nutrients.

Let’s practice!