Food Safety
What is cross-contamination in food safety?
Cross-contamination occurs when harmful bacteria or pathogens are transferred from one surface or food to another, often via hands, utensils, or equipment.
What should be done to prevent slipping in the kitchen?
Keep the kitchen floors dry and clean, immediately wipe up spills, and use non-slip mats where necessary to avoid slipping.
What is the purpose of "mise en place" in cooking?
"Mise en place" is a French term that means "everything in its place." It refers to the practice of preparing and organizing ingredients and tools before starting to cook.
What are the basic parts of a recipe?
The basic parts of a recipe include the title, ingredients list, instructions, cooking time, and serving size.
What is the primary difference between baking and roasting?
Baking generally refers to cooking foods like bread, cakes, or cookies in an oven, while roasting typically refers to cooking vegetables or meats at higher temperatures.
How should raw meats be stored to prevent cross-contamination?
Raw meats should be stored in sealed containers or plastic bags on the lowest shelf in the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.
What is the proper way to handle kitchen knives safely?
Always cut away from your body, use a stable cutting surface, and store knives in a knife block or on a magnetic strip when not in use to prevent accidents.
What is the difference between dry measuring cups and liquid measuring cups?
Dry measuring cups are used for ingredients like flour and sugar, which can be leveled off. Liquid measuring cups have a spout and are designed for liquids like water or milk.
Why is it important to list ingredients in the order they are used in a recipe?
Listing ingredients in the order they are used ensures a smooth cooking process and helps the cook follow the recipe more easily.
What does it mean to "fold" ingredients in cooking?
"Folding" is a gentle mixing technique where ingredients are carefully combined without deflating air, such as when adding whipped cream to a batter.
What is the correct internal cooking temperature for poultry?
Poultry should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
What should you do if a kitchen fire occurs?
If a grease fire occurs, use a lid to cover the pan and turn off the heat, or put baking soda. Do not use water to extinguish it. If it’s a small fire, use a fire extinguisher. If it's large, evacuate and call 911.
What is the correct way to measure flour using a dry measuring cup?
Use a spoon to lightly fluff the flour, spoon it into the measuring cup, and then level it off with a flat edge for accuracy.
What does “prep time” refer to in a recipe?
"Prep time" refers to the amount of time it takes to prepare ingredients before actual cooking begins.
How can you prevent overcooking pasta?
To prevent overcooking pasta, follow the package instructions for cooking time, and check for doneness by tasting a piece before draining.
How should you properly chill food to maintain food safety?
Food should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F. Always ensure the fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or below.
Why is it important to sanitize kitchen surfaces?
Regularly sanitizing kitchen surfaces prevents the spread of bacteria and viruses, reducing the risk of foodborne illness and cross-contamination.
What is the most important rule when using a sharp knife?
The most important rule is to always cut away from your body and keep your fingers tucked in to avoid injury.
How can you determine the serving size for a recipe?
Serving size is typically determined by the number of people the recipe is designed to feed or by the amount of ingredients used per person.
What is the proper way to store herbs for maximum freshness?
Fresh herbs should be stored in the refrigerator in a damp paper towel or jar of water, while dried herbs should be kept in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.
Why is it important to separate raw and cooked foods?
Separating raw and cooked foods prevents cross-contamination and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.
What is the safest way to store cleaning supplies in the kitchen?
Cleaning supplies should be stored away from food, preferably in a separate cabinet or area, to avoid contamination.
What kitchen tools are essential for basic knife skills?
A sharp chef's knife, a cutting board, and a stable surface are essential for safe and efficient knife skills.
What is the purpose of an ingredient list in a recipe?
The ingredient list ensures that the cook knows exactly what ingredients are needed and in what quantities before starting the cooking process.
What is the difference between simmering and boiling?
The main difference between simmering and boiling is the level of heat and the size of the bubbles. When simmering, the water is just below boiling, and typically done to thicken a substance. In contrast, when boiling, the water reaches 212°F (100°C), with larger, more vigorous bubbles rapidly breaking the surface and the nutrient is fully submerged in water.