Food Safety
What is cross-contamination, and how can it be prevented in the kitchen?
Cross-contamination is when bacteria transfers from one surface or food to another, often through handling raw meat, unwashed hands, or contaminated utensils. It can be prevented by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables, washing hands and surfaces frequently, and properly storing food.
Why should you never leave cooking food unattended?
Leaving food unattended can lead to burning, fires, or boiling over.
What is the difference between dry and liquid measuring cups, and when should each be used?
Dry measuring cups are used for solid ingredients like flour and sugar and allow for leveling off the excess. Liquid measuring cups have a spout and measurement markings to accurately measure liquids like milk and oil.
Why is it important to follow a recipe exactly when baking?
It relies on correct ingredients, ratios and techniques. Changing measurements or steps can affect the texture and taste.
Why is it important to chill perishable foods properly?
Chilling perishable foods slows bacterial growth, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Why is it important to cook food to the correct internal temperature?
Cooking food to the correct internal temperature kills harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.
What are the most common kitchen hazards, and how can they be avoided?
Common hazards include burns, cuts, slips, and fires. They can be avoided by handling knives carefully, keeping floors dry, using oven mitts, and not leaving cooking unattended.
What is the difference between chopping and dicing?
Chopping means cutting food into irregular, larger pieces, while dicing means cutting food into small, even cubes.
How do you convert a recipe from serving four people to serving eight?
Multiply each ingredient by two
How should you clean up a wet spill to prevent accidents?
Wipe with paper towel or with a mop
How should raw meats be stored in a refrigerator to prevent contamination?
: Raw meats should be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator in a sealed container to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods
Why is handwashing essential before and after handling food?
Handwashing removes bacteria that can contaminate food and cause illnesses.
Why is it important to preheat the oven before baking?
Preheating ensures the food cooks evenly and at the right temperature from the start.
What is the difference between a list of ingredients and the step-by-step directions in a recipe?
The ingredient list provides the necessary components with exact measurements, while the step-by-step directions explain how to prepare and cook the dish in order.
What is blanching, and when is it used?
Blanching is briefly boiling food and then cooling it in ice water. It is used to preserve color, texture, and nutrients or prepare food for freezing.
Why is it important to chill perishable foods properly?
Chilling perishable foods slows bacterial growth, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
How should you clean up a wet spill to prevent accidents?
Wipe with paper towel or with a mop
What is the difference between simmering and boiling?
Simmering cooks food gently at low heat (185–205°F) with small bubbles, while boiling is at 212°F with rapid bubbling.
Why do some recipes include preparation and cooking times, and how can this information help a cook?
Prep and cooking times help cooks plan their meals to ensure they have enough time to complete a recipe before serving.
What does "folding" mean in a recipe?
Folding is a gentle mixing technique used to combine delicate ingredients (like whipped egg whites) without deflating them.
Why is it important to wash fruits and vegetables before eating them, even if you plan to peel them?
Washing fruits and vegetables removes dirt, bacteria, and residues that may be on the surface.
What is the safest way to extinguish a grease fire?
Turn off the heat and smother the fire using a lid, baking soda, or a fire extinguisher. Never use water, as it can spread the flames.
How can you prevent pasta from sticking together while cooking?
Use a large pot of boiling water, stir occasionally, and avoid adding oil, which can prevent sauce from sticking later.
What is the purpose of a recipe substitution chart?
A substitution chart provides alternative ingredients when certain items are unavailable or need to be adjusted for dietary restrictions.
How do you properly measure ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter?
Flour: Spoon it into a dry measuring cup and level off the top with a flat edge.
Sugar: Scoop it directly into a measuring cup and level it off.
Butter: Use the markings on the wrapper or pack it into a measuring cup if needed.