Why Start with Easy Recipes?

Starting with easy recipes is the perfect way to build confidence in the kitchen. These dishes require minimal ingredients, are forgiving of small mistakes, and can be tailored to your family's tastes. Plus, they often form the foundation for more complex meals as your skills grow.

Simple Recipes That Stand the Test of Time

1. Mastering the Art of Boiled Rice

One of the first skills many beginner cooks learn is how to boil rice perfectly. Achieving fluffy, non-gummy rice can be a game-changer. Here's how you can do it:

1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a pot.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.
4. Let it simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

2. Fried Egg Sandwiches: Quick and Delicious

Fried egg sandwiches are a staple for many families due to their simplicity and delightful taste. Here's a basic way to make them:

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Add a pat of butter or a splash of oil.
• Crack eggs into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and fry to your preferred doneness.
• Toast bread slices, then assemble the sandwich with eggs, cheese, and any desired toppings like avocado or tomato.

3. Classic White Gravy

This simple white gravy is a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire:

1. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan.
2. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook until lightly golden.
3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk, stirring until thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup

A hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup is perfect for any occasion:

• Saute onions, carrots, and celery in a pot until softened.
• Add chicken broth, cooked shredded chicken, and egg noodles.
• Simmer until the noodles are tender.
• Season with herbs like thyme and parsley.

5. Flavorful Chicken Adobo

Chicken Adobo is a beloved dish that can be enjoyed by all ages:

1. Marinate chicken pieces in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns.
2. Brown the chicken in a pan, then add the marinade and simmer.
3. Cook until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Practical Tips for Beginner Cooks

• Read the entire recipe: Before starting, read through the whole recipe to understand the steps and gather all necessary ingredients.
• Prep ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
• Use timers: Set timers to avoid overcooking or burning food.
• Start simple: Choose recipes with fewer ingredients and straightforward techniques.
• Experiment: Don't be afraid to tweak recipes to suit your family's taste.