Professional chefs are always coming up with innovative ways to elevate the flavors and presentation of their dishes.
In this article, we will explore 9 mind-blowing food hacks that professional chefs swear by to make their dishes stand out.
These tips and tricks are sure to impress your guests and take your cooking skills to the next level.
1. Brine your meat for juicier results
One of the most common tricks used by professional chefs to ensure juicy and flavorful meat is to brine it before cooking.
Brining involves soaking the meat in a solution of salt, sugar, and water for a few hours before cooking.
This process helps the meat retain moisture, resulting in a juicier and more tender final product.
Whether you’re grilling a steak or roasting a chicken, brining is a great way to elevate the taste of your meat dishes.
2. Use citrus zest for added flavor
Citrus zest is an excellent way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes without adding any extra liquid.
Professional chefs often use lemon, lime, or orange zest to brighten up dishes like salads, marinades, and desserts.
The oils in the citrus zest contain a concentrated flavor that can enhance the taste of any dish.
Simply use a microplane or zester to grate the outer peel of the citrus fruit and sprinkle it on your dishes for a fresh and zesty flavor boost.
3. Infuse your cooking oil with herbs and spices
Infusing your cooking oil with herbs and spices is a simple yet effective way to add depth and complexity to your dishes.
Professional chefs often heat up olive oil with ingredients like garlic, herbs, and spices to infuse the oil with flavor before using it in their recipes.
This infused oil can be used as a base for sauces, dressings, or simply drizzled over grilled vegetables or meats for an extra burst of flavor.
Experiment with different flavor combinations to create a unique and delicious oil that complements your dishes perfectly.
4. Use a mandoline for perfectly sliced vegetables
A mandoline is a versatile kitchen tool that professional chefs swear by for consistently thin and even slices of vegetables.
Whether you’re making a salad, a gratin, or a stir-fry, a mandoline can help you achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort.
Simply adjust the blade to your desired thickness, place the vegetable on the mandoline, and slide it back and forth to create perfectly sliced vegetables in no time.
This tool is especially useful for dishes that require uniform slices for even cooking and presentation.
5. Freeze leftover herbs in olive oil
If you find yourself with leftover herbs that are on the verge of spoiling, don’t throw them away.
Professional chefs often freeze leftover herbs in olive oil to preserve their flavor and use them in future dishes.
Simply chop up the herbs, place them in an ice cube tray, fill each compartment with olive oil, and freeze until solid.
These herb-infused olive oil cubes can be added to soups, stews, sauces, and dressings for a burst of fresh herb flavor anytime you need it.
6. Use a blow torch to caramelize desserts
Professional chefs often use a blow torch to caramelize desserts like crème brûlée, tarts, and meringues for a crisp and golden finish.
This technique allows you to achieve the perfect caramelized crust without heating up the entire dessert.
Simply sprinkle sugar on top of your dessert, use a blow torch to melt and caramelize the sugar, and enjoy a professional-looking dessert with a crunchy and sweet topping.
This technique is sure to impress your guests and elevate the presentation of your homemade desserts.
7. Grind your own spices for maximum flavor
For the freshest and most flavorful spices, professional chefs often grind their own spices using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
Pre-ground spices can lose their flavor and aroma over time, so grinding your own spices right before using them ensures maximum freshness and intensity of flavor.
Whether you’re making a curry, a marinade, or a spice rub, freshly ground spices will take your dishes to the next level with their bold and aromatic taste.
Experiment with different spice blends to create unique flavors that will elevate your cooking to new heights.
8. Use a sous vide machine for perfectly cooked proteins
Sous vide cooking is a technique that professional chefs swear by for perfectly cooked proteins every time.
This method involves vacuum-sealing the protein in a bag and cooking it in a temperature-controlled water bath for an extended period.
Sous vide cooking ensures that the protein is cooked evenly and to the desired level of doneness without the risk of overcooking.
Whether you’re cooking steak, chicken, fish, or eggs, a sous vide machine can help you achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen.
9. Finish your dishes with a sprinkle of finishing salt
Finishing salt is a secret weapon used by professional chefs to add a final touch of flavor and texture to their dishes.
This high-quality salt is typically coarser than table salt and has a more intense flavor that can enhance the taste of your dishes.
Whether you’re making a salad, a pasta dish, or a piece of chocolate, finishing salt can elevate the flavors and bring out the natural sweetness and richness of the ingredients.
Simply sprinkle a pinch of finishing salt on top of your dishes before serving to add a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch that will impress your guests.
Conclusion
These 9 mind-blowing food hacks from professional chefs are sure to take your cooking skills to the next level and impress your guests with delicious and innovative dishes.
From brining your meat to infusing your oil with herbs and spices, these tips and tricks will help you achieve professional-looking results in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Experiment with these techniques and watch as your dishes come to life with bold flavors, beautiful presentations, and unbeatable taste. Happy cooking!