The Basics

So you've decided to try your hand at cooking a meal. Or maybe you're tired of eating out and want to eat better so you've decided to start making your own food - after all, you know exactly what you put in it because you've made it.

The first thing I do is find out what type of pan works for me. Cast Iron Skillets are great, like the ones I found at Sears, but keep in mind they have to be taken care of properly or they will be of no use. In fact, my dad has used different skillets, and he says that the ones made by Lodge Manufacturing Co. are the best he's ever used. Actually, the pans I'm using now are the same pans he bought years ago from Lodge.

There are non-stick pans as well, like the pans by T-Fal I'm thinking about getting. However, with non-stick pans you have to use plastic utensils only, no metal because the bottoms will be scratched. On the other hand, these pans can go in the dishwasher, and you don't have to use grease to keep them non-stick. Plus, most non-stick pans don't need any oil or butter when you're cooking.

Utensils. I'm the type of person who likes to use a fork and a knife when I cook. I usually don't need large spoons or anything else, because I usually end up dropping them. But you have to try cooking with different utensils to find what works for you. While it's nice to have all the great gadgets, you have to figure out what you and your family like.

Some tools that you will definitely need are: Measuring cups (they come in 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 2/3 cup, and 1 cup), Measuring spoons (they come in 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon), and I recommend a large serving spoon for soups (who needs ladles) or spaghetti sauce and unless you buy your cheese already grated, a grater. Plus, if you're working with canned foods, make sure you have a good can opener. They usually run about $15, (shop around though, you can probably find them for $10) and they cut around the edge of the can, so there are no sharp edges. But the most important thing to invest in is a pair of potholders (at least). There is nothing worse than finishing a casserole and you can't find your potholders. Of course a towel can be used in an emergency, but it does not work quite as well.

For example, if there are onions in the dish, do you like large chunks, small slices, or tiny pieces? You can use a knife to cut the onion anyway you want it, even into tiny pieces. Unless you like the onion so tiny that it would be impossible to tell that there was onion in the dish in the first place. Then I would recommend investing in a food chopper.

Finally, you have to have music when you're cooking. Yes, this is something you don't have to do, but it's nice because it is very relaxing. Don't pick something that will put you to sleep, but choose your favorite music, play it through the stereo, and enjoy making something tasty.