Are you baffled by the meals your loved ones are able to make? This article will help you become a magnificent presentation of your own.

Prepare as much of your recipe as possible. It is essential to have all prep work is completed before cooking commences. You can spare yourself a great deal of hassle by getting all your prep work in advance.

Bake pie crusts a little longer than you think is really necessary. They need to be a light golden brown instead of pale in color. The darker color results when the sugar in the pie crust has started to caramelize and this will give a sweet and crisper flavor.

Spices should be kept somewhere cool and dark place. Using fresher spices can make your food taste better.

This will give your food the highest level of whatever you are cooking.

You can avoid stress by sticking to familiar recipes and food you have not already tried when you are cooking for someone that you want to impress. This will allow you feel less stressed when preparing your meal.

Try adding cauliflower to your mashed potatoes to cut some calories and fat. The taste of cauliflower will blend seamlessly with your potatoes while picking up the potatoes.Cauliflower has the same texture and color as potatoes, so the dish will be transformed into one that has more vegetables and fewer calories.

Do you want to cook with fresh basil in your dishes? Place your basil into a glass container. Fill the glass with enough water to cover the stems are covered. Keep on the kitchen counter and it should stay fresh. The basil may even start growing roots if you keep the water changed occasionally. Trim the basil once in a while so it grows even more and you will be able to enjoy fresh basil!

Mushrooms will soak up a sponge. Wipe the mushrooms off by hand with a clean wet cloth to prepare them for cooking.

Always use airtight container to store baking ingredients such as sugar or flour in the kitchen. Keeping your food in sealed containers will keep them from spoiling or being infected with bugs. These containers can be purchased at almost any store and make a good investment.

Plan on preparing a large batch so you can freeze and store it. Good chicken stock that you make at home makes a great starter for soups, stews, stews and other dishes.

Prepare some of your food the day before if you cannot handle doing everything in one night.Cut up vegetables and make marinades or sauces before so you can save time. This alleviates stress at suppertime since you have already done part of the next day.

It would be wise for you to use the advice just provided to you. In no time, family and friends will be begging for the secrets to your culinary success.

By lucille