Tag: Chefs

Cooking transcends the mundane act of meal preparation, transforming into an exquisite form of self-expression and a means of delighting both the creator and those fortunate enough to partake. Alas, even the most accomplished chefs occasionally fall prey to mishaps in the kitchen, leading to frustration and the potential demise of an otherwise delectable dish. These culinary blunders can seem inescapable, from the smoldering remains of a once-perfect roast to the untimely death of a flavorful soup.

Fear not; these common errors can be gracefully sidestepped by applying a few strategic techniques and clever tricks. This comprehensive guide delves into the most frequent kitchen pitfalls, arming you with the knowledge to prevent them with finesse. Prepare to be enlightened, as some of these revelations might prove astonishing, given how prevalent they have become in today’s culinary landscape.

The Secret to Flawlessly Cooked Bacon 

Surprisingly, expert chefs advocate cooking bacon in a cold pan rather than preheating it, which yields optimal results. Contrary to the widespread practice of oiling and preheating the pan, beginning with a hard pan ensures slow, even cooking – the ultimate technique for preparing bacon to perfection.

This approach facilitates the gradual rendering of the fat, resulting in consistently textured, evenly cooked bacon strips instead of the unevenly cooked tidbits produced by a preheated, oiled pan. Moreover, avoid overlapping the bacon strips when initiating the process with a cold pan.

Deciphering the Ideal Bread for Exquisite French Toast 

Allison Robicelli, the esteemed chef and writer at The Takeout, cautions that not all bread is created equal when crafting the perfect French toast. Thickness is vital, as thin slices fail to deliver the desired outcome. Opt for slightly stale, dense loaves of bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast when embarking on your French toast endeavor.

These bread varieties excel at absorbing the custard mixture, giving rise to a decadent, creamy texture. Conversely, soft, fresh loaves, like white sandwich bread, tend to become soggy when immersed in the mixture. Employing thicker cut slices will reward you with a delightfully crisp exterior encasing a tender interior.

Why Room Temperature Eggs Are Essential for Perfect Cooking Results 

Chef Robert Irvine recommends letting eggs sit at room temperature for four to five minutes before frying, contrary to the widely held belief that egg temperature is inconsequential. Cold eggs from the fridge tend to contract rapidly due to the temperature difference between them and the hot cooking medium.

This contraction causes the eggs to adhere to the pan and break apart, marring their presentation. Conversely, allowing eggs to reach room temperature before frying results in a smoother process, even cooking, and an enhanced texture and appearance.

Upgrade Your Bacon Game with Twisted Bacon 

If you’re a fan of incorporating pork into your daily meals and have yet to try the twisted bacon hack, you’re missing out! Contrary to the popular belief that frying bacon flat is the only way, this hack is a simple yet ingenious method of elevating its flavor. It becomes more compact by twisting each slice before frying, allowing it to cook evenly and crisper.

Videos circulating on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram feature numerous chefs presenting twisted bacon as flavorful as fillet steak. The twisting motion produces crispy pockets of salty, savory, and fatty goodness that burst with flavor with each bite.

The Correct Way to Crack Eggs 

Cracking eggs is a crucial step in many recipes, but using the rim of a bowl to do so can lead to unwanted shell fragments, bacteria, and compromised dishes. The best way to crack an egg is by using the edge of a flat surface, such as a countertop, for a cleaner and more efficient process.

Gently tap the egg on the surface until a crack forms, then widen it by applying more pressure while holding the egg above the bowl. This method minimizes the risk of shell fragments entering the mixture, ensuring your recipe succeeds.

Steaming Before Pan Frying 

Pan-frying raw sausages can lead to distorted and unevenly cooked meat. Avoid this by steaming them for 15 minutes in a pot with 0.8 inches of boiling water before pan-frying. This technique produces a gentler frying process, ensuring even cooking and making juicier, more tender meat.

Moreover, steaming allows excess fat to be released and drained off before frying, leading to healthier sausages and preventing messy splattering in the pan. Once cooked, simply sear the links to your desired level of crispiness and enjoy the delicious results!

The Secret to Fluffy and Delicious Scrambles 

Whisking eggs is vital to achieving a restaurant-style scramble that is both fluffy and delicious. According to The Spruce Eats, the key to a successful scramble is thorough and even whisking, which incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in fluffier and softer eggs.

To do this, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until the yolks and whites are thoroughly combined and the mixture is consistent. You can also add a pinch of salt and a splash of milk to enhance the flavor and texture further.

Don’t Overlook the Importance of Nonstick Pans for Perfect Eggs 

Eggs are versatile in many households, but minor cooking errors can impact their taste and appearance. It is best to use a nonstick pan to ensure eggs cook perfectly and maintain their shape.

A nonstick pan facilitates quick and effortless flipping, ensuring the yolk remains intact. Furthermore, using a nonstick pan helps prevent eggs from sticking and burning. Using other pans may result in overcooked, dry eggs that do not meet expectations. Remember, a great breakfast starts with a good pan!

Why Insufficient Fat Can Ruin Your Eggs 

Although fats may have a negative reputation, not all are created equal. While using a nonstick pan to cook eggs is a good practice, adding butter can significantly enhance the flavor. Butter serves a dual purpose by adding taste and lubricating the pan. Failing to use sufficient oil when cooking eggs can lead to dry, rubbery, and undesirable results.

Good fats, such as butter, helps fry eggs evenly and thoroughly, making it a healthy option for children. Although butter is high in calories and saturated fat, it contains fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K.

The Blunder of Not Storing Fried Bacon in the Freezer 

While it’s rare to have leftover bacon after cooking, storing any prepared strips is crucial to ensure they stay fresh and delicious. The first step is to avoid storing them in the refrigerator and instead place them in the freezer to extend their shelf life.

However, more than simply placing the meat in the freezer is needed to guarantee freshness. For the best results, wrap each strip of bacon in a single sheet of paper towel, then place them into a ziplock bag. When stored correctly, this method will keep the bacon fresh for up to six weeks.

The Importance of Not Overmixing Eggs in Pound Cakes 

Perfecting a pound cake for a special occasion requires paying attention to the batter’s consistency. Overmixing eggs in the recipe can result in a dense, rugged texture that crumbles easily. When eggs are over-beaten, their proteins denature and dry, compromising the cake’s surface. 

However, if you accidentally overmix the eggs, you can still salvage the batter by adding another fresh egg. It’s crucial to beat the eggs to combine them with the other ingredients. For pound cakes, where eggs provide structure, gentleness is essential to achieving the desired rise and a tender, light texture.

The Blunder of Always Adding Milk or Cream to Scrambled Eggs 

Many chefs add milk to scrambled eggs to make them lighter and more flavorful. However, it’s essential to consider the color of the yolk before adding any milk. If the yolk is orange, there’s no need to add milk as it can dilute the eggs’ natural flavor.

Adding excessive milk can also make the eggs rubbery and challenging to handle. Moreover, some people prefer scrambled eggs without dairy, as they provide enough richness and flavor. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome, as both versions can be delicious.

The Importance of Topping Variety in Your Chili Con Carne 

Are you planning a gathering at home? Consider serving chili con carne, a budget-friendly dish that offers a variety of toppings to please everyone’s taste preferences. You can customize the flavor by adding cocoa powder for a sweet touch or jalapeños for a spicy kick. The key to a delicious chili is to time the seasoning appropriately to achieve a thick, hearty consistency.

Mix onions, peppers, garlic, tomatoes, and spices for a classic Texas red chili. You can add crackers, cornbread, or rice to make the dish even more filling. Chili is versatile and can be prepared slowly or on the stove, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.

The Blunder of Not Soaking Potatoes Before Making Homemade French Fries 

For crispy and delicious homemade French fries, it’s essential to soak sliced and rinsed potatoes in water overnight to remove surface starch. This step is crucial for many chefs to avoid stickiness. However, some suggest partially cooking the potatoes before frying to eliminate additional sugar and brown the fries to a crispy finish.

Although both methods aim to produce tasty and crispy homemade French fries, soaking the potatoes overnight has additional benefits. It removes excess starch and prevents the potatoes from turning dark during frying. Soaking ensures your homemade fries turn out golden and crispy every time.

The Importance of Properly Seasoning Your Homemade Pasta Sauce 

While store-bought pasta sauces are convenient, making a delicious sauce at home is easy and can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Properly seasoning your homemade pasta sauce is vital for a delightful and flavorful meal. For example, using fresh herbs instead of dried ones can significantly affect the taste.

Start by adding salt, as it helps bring out the flavors of other ingredients. Then, add the same herbs used in commercially sold sauces, but be cautious not to add too much at once, as correcting the flavor later can be challenging. With proper seasoning, you can enjoy a flavorful and homemade pasta sauce in no time.

The Blunder of Overusing Oil for Hash Browns 

Excessive use of oil in preparing hash browns can result in a soggy texture and an unappetizing dish. Additionally, using too much oil can add unwanted calories and negatively impact the health benefits of the meal. Instead of using a large amount of fat, consider using a minimal amount or alternative options like clarified butter, which can provide a crispier result.

Proper preparation techniques, such as using the correct type of potato and removing excess starch, also contribute to the overall crispiness of the dish. You can enjoy a delicious and healthier breakfast dish by reducing oil usage and focusing on proper preparation techniques.

The Benefits of Avoiding Microwaving Bacon 

Microwaving bacon is a quick and easy way to prepare it without making a mess. While it is a convenient method, it can result in chewy and unevenly cooked bacon, which is far from appetizing. It is better to use traditional cooking methods like pan-frying or grilling for a crispy and delicious result.

When pan-frying or grilling, the fat renders gradually, giving the bacon a crispy texture and rich flavor. Additionally, these methods allow for more control over the cooking process, ensuring that each strip is perfectly cooked.

The Blunder of Not Checking Egg Freshness 

Fresh eggs straight from the farm have a superior taste and texture compared to those that have been refrigerated. They have higher water content and lower air cells, resulting in a creamier yolk and firmer white. Moreover, they contain more essential vitamins and minerals.

It’s crucial to check the freshness of eggs before using them. As eggs age, the air cells enlarge, making the yolk less firm and the white less viscous. To check their freshness, gently place the egg in a water bowl. If it sinks and lays flat on the bottom, it’s fresh. If it stands upright on the base or floats, it’s familiar and should be discarded. Using fresh eggs will result in better-tasting and visually appealing dishes.

Creating Perfectly Smooth Mashed Potatoes 

Mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals, from fried chicken to turkey dinners. To make them, start peeling and boiling the potatoes until they are tender. Then, mash them with a potato masher or a fork, adding warm milk and butter until they reach the desired consistency.

For perfectly smooth mashed potatoes, use a ricer or a food mill to puree them, giving them a silky texture. Adding butter and milk while the potatoes are still warm is essential to prevent lumps from forming. However, please do not overdo it with the milk, or it may become runny.

Forgetting to Rest Meat Before Slicing 

Forgetting to rest meat before slicing is a common mistake that can ruin an otherwise perfectly cooked dish. Resting meat after cooking allows the juices to redistribute and settle back into the heart, ensuring a more tender and flavorful result. Cutting meat too soon can cause the juices to run out, resulting in a dry and tough texture.

To rest the meat, remove it from the heat source and let it sit for a few minutes. The amount of time needed for relaxing varies depending on the meat’s size, but a general rule of thumb is to rest for five to ten minutes allows for a more evenly cooked dish and a more satisfying meal.

Cooking Pork Without Adding Water 

Cooking pork without water is an underrated cooking method that can result in a delectable and healthy dish. This technique produces juicy and tender pork that retains its natural flavors without additional seasoning. To cook pork this way, sear it in a hot pan for a few minutes, then lower the heat and cover the pan.

This method allows the pork to cook in its juices and fats, which keep the meat moist and tender. It also prevents the heart from sticking to the pan and creates a natural pan sauce that can be used to add more flavor. Plus, omitting water eliminates the need for excessive oil, resulting in a leaner and healthier dish.

Overboiling Eggs 

The overcooking of the egg is a common mistake that can lead to disagreeable results. When eggs are overcooked, the whites become rubbery, and the yolks dry out, making them difficult to peel. Paying close attention to the cooking time and temperature is essential to avoid this. For soft-boiled eggs, boil them for three to five minutes, depending on how runny you like the yolk. 

For over-easy or sunny-side-up eggs, cook them on each side for two to three minutes. For scrambled eggs, cook them until just set but still moist. Removing the eggs from the heat a little before they’re fully cooked is also essential, as the residual heat will continue to cook them. This will ensure that you get perfectly cooked and delicious eggs every time. 

Perfect Pancakes Every Time with the Right Tool 

Making delicious and perfectly shaped pancakes is easy when you have the right tool. Using a measuring cup is not ideal, resulting in inconsistent portions and uneven pouring. Instead, using an ice cream scoop is a fantastic solution to achieve the perfect pancake every time. An ice cream scoop allows for even and precise portioning of the batter and ensures a smooth and controlled pour into the pan.

The result is a perfectly round and evenly cooked pancake with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.An ice cream scoop is great for pancakes and can be used for portioning out other dishes like biscuits, muffins, and even meatballs. So, ditch the measuring cup and give an ice cream scoop a try for the perfect pancake every time.

The Dangers of Always Eating Ready-Made Foods 

Ready-made foods are tempting for many individuals who need more time to prepare meals from scratch. While these foods may be convenient, they can harm one’s health. Most of these foods contain preservatives, high amounts of sodium, and added sugars, which can contribute to numerous health issues like obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Furthermore, these foods are often low in essential nutrients, as processing and cooking methods used to preserve them may cause a loss of vital vitamins and minerals.

In contrast, home-cooked meals offer individuals control over their diet, enabling them to incorporate a wide range of nutrient-dense foods that promote good health. It’s best to rely on something other than ready-made foods as a regular source of nutrition. Instead, carving out some time in the week to plan and prepare healthy meals can improve overall health and well-being, providing individuals with the necessary energy and nutrients to live a healthy life.

Avoiding All Fats in Your Diet

Many people believe avoiding fats is the best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but this is not necessarily true. Some fats benefit our health when consumed in moderation, especially unsaturated fats in foods such as avocados, nuts, and fatty fish.

These healthy fats can help reduce inflammation, improve blood cholesterol levels, and stabilize heart rhythms. In contrast, saturated fats, found in cheese and red meat, can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease if consumed in excess. Therefore, limiting the intake of processed foods and opting for whole, unprocessed foods rich in healthier oils is recommended.

Not Varying Your Breakfast Choices

Having various breakfast options is essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. It helps to ensure you get all the vital nutrients your body needs to start the day strong. Consuming different foods from different groups can also prevent boredom and promote adherence to a healthy eating pattern.

A varied breakfast can introduce new flavors and ingredients, creating a more exciting and enjoyable meal. Mixing up foods is essential for good health and reduces disease risk factors. Additionally, incorporating protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your breakfast can keep you fuller for longer and reduce cravings throughout the day. So, don’t be afraid to try new breakfast options to keep your meals exciting and nutritious.

Not Letting Meat Rest Before Cutting 

It is a common mistake to cut into meat immediately after cooking, but it is essential to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices inside the core to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. If cut too soon, the liquids spill out, causing the heart to dry.

The resting time length depends on the meat’s type and size. A general rule of thumb is to let it rest for at least five minutes, while more significant cuts of meat may require up to 20 minutes. Cover the heart with foil to keep it warm while sleeping.

Relying Too Much on Salads for Vegetables 

While salads are a great way to consume vegetables, relying solely on them for daily vegetable intake can lead to boredom and inadequate nutrient intake. There are many other ways to incorporate vegetables into meals, such as roasting, stir-frying, and sautéing.

Adding vegetables to soups, stews, and casseroles is also an excellent way to increase nutrient intake and add flavor. Furthermore, incorporating various colors in vegetable consumption is essential for getting a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Instead of sticking to the same salad every day, mix it up with different vegetable preparations and cooking methods.

Adding Too Much Salt To Soups And Stews 

Adding too much salt to soups and stews is a common mistake that can ruin the entire dish. It’s essential to taste and season as you go instead of adding all the salt at once. This allows you to control the saltiness and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Using low-sodium broth or stock can also help reduce the salt content in the dish without sacrificing flavor. Other seasonings like herbs, spices, and acids like lemon juice can enhance flavor without adding too much salt. So, make sure to taste and adjust seasoning gradually to prevent over-salting.

Not Preheating The Oven 

Not preheating the oven before baking can affect the final product’s texture and cooking time. The recipe’s cooking time is based on a preheated oven, and baking in a cold oven can result in an unevenly cooked dish, especially for baked goods like cakes and cookies.

Preheating the oven allows it to reach the optimal temperature, ensuring the dish cooks evenly and thoroughly. It also helps the dish to cook faster and prevents overcooking, confirming the word comes out perfectly baked. So, preheat your oven to the temperature indicated in the recipe before baking.

Not Resting Meat After Cooking 

Resting meat after cooking is essential to achieving a juicy and tender dish. Resting allows the meat to reabsorb the juices expelled during cooking and redistribute the heat evenly throughout the core. It also ensures that the heart remains moist and tender by allowing the fibers to relax and the juices to be reabsorbed.

To rest the meat, remove it from the heat source and place it on a cutting board or platter, covering it loosely with foil to retain heat. Resting time varies depending on the cut of meat and its size. Generally, large amounts require more resting time than minor cuts. Resting the heart for 5-10 minutes before carving or serving is a good guideline.

Not Seasoning Food Adequately 

Proper seasoning is crucial for achieving a flavorful and balanced dish. Underseasoning can result in a more balanced word, while overseasoning can make the dish too salty or overpowering. It is essential to taste the food frequently throughout the cooking process and to adjust the seasoning as needed.

A general rule of thumb for seasoning is to use a light hand and to season in layers. This means adding a small amount of salt and other condiments at the beginning of the cooking process and then adjusting the seasoning towards the end. It’s also essential to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh herbs and spices, for optimal flavor. By properly seasoning food, you can elevate the taste and enjoyment of your dishes.

Neglecting Proper Knife Maintenance 

A well-maintained kitchen knife can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable, while a dull one can be frustrating and dangerous. Worn blades can slip and cut fingers or cause uneven cuts, resulting in varying cooking times. To maintain the sharpness of kitchen knives, it is essential to store them properly, clean them regularly, and sharpen them when necessary.

Storing knives in a wooden block or magnetic strip can protect the blade from damage and maintain its sharpness. Regularly cleaning utensils with soap and water and immediately drying them after use can prevent rust and corrosion. Finally, sharpening knives with a sharpening stone or a honing rod can keep the blade sharp and avoid dullness.

Overcrowding the Pan 

Overcrowding the pan is a common mistake when cooking. It can lead to uneven cooking and prevent food from browning correctly. The overcrowding traps moisture, and the heat can’t penetrate the food, leading to steaming rather than searing. This is why cooking in batches is essential rather than filling the pan to its maximum capacity.

Smaller portions allow food to cook evenly and develop a more desirable crust. It also allows for more control over the cooking process, leading to better flavor and texture. So, it is essential to avoid overcrowding the pan for a better cooking experience.

Not Washing Fruits Before Eating

Many people need to realize the importance of washing fruits before eating them. Fruits can be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses. These bacteria can be present on the surface of the fruit due to exposure to soil, water, and other environmental factors.

To minimize the risk of illness, it’s recommended to wash fruits thoroughly under running water before consuming them. Even fruits with thick skin, such as melons or oranges, should be washed first to avoid transferring surface contaminants onto the flesh. In addition to washing, handling fruits properly during preparation is essential. Cutting fruits on a clean cutting board with a clean knife can prevent the transfer of bacteria from other surfaces.

Cooking Bacon on Scorching Heat

Bacon is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be cooked in many ways. However, cooking it on high heat can result in an unappetizing meal. High heat risks burning the bacon and causes the fat to render too quickly, making it shrink and become rigid. The key to making the most delicious bacon is to simmer it. Cooking it on medium-low heat is the best approach.

This allows the bacon to fry evenly and prevents it from shrinking too much. Thin bacon strips only take three to four minutes per side, so there’s no need to rush. Cooking bacon on low heat also brings out the flavor properly. The slow cooking process allows the bacon to absorb the seasonings and spices, making it more flavorful and delicious. So, take your time and cook the bacon on medium-low heat for the best results.

Thawing Frozen Meats for Optimal Cooking 

Cooking frozen meat can lead to undesirable results. The inside may remain raw while the outside burns or becomes overcooked. The best approach to prevent uneven cooking is to thaw the meat first. Thawing meat at room temperature for several hours before cooking may seem like a hassle, but it can have multiple benefits. One of the most significant benefits of thawing meat before cooking is ensuring it cooks evenly. When the heart reaches room temperature, it can cook more uniformly, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful meal.

Additionally, thawing can help restore the meat’s natural scent and taste, allowing the natural juices to circulate in the flesh. Thawing meat can also help retain essential nutrients that may otherwise be lost during cooking. Finally, cooking frozen beef takes longer, increasing the bacterial growth risk. Thawing the meat first can help minimize the risk of bacterial growth and ensure a safe and healthy meal.

The Importance of Including Vegetables in Your Diet 

Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy and balanced diet. They are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are crucial for optimal health. Eating various colorful vegetables can also help ensure you get a balanced intake of nutrients. Additionally, vegetables are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent option for weight management.

Numerous studies have shown that consuming more vegetables can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Moreover, vegetables can help regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve gut health. Therefore, making vegetables a regular part of your diet is essential. Add them to salads, soups, stir-fries, or roasted as a side dish to ensure you get your daily dose of essential nutrients. Aim for at least five servings of vegetables per day for optimal health.

Using a Slow Cooker Without Proper Planning 

Slow cookers can make meal prep easy and convenient but require adequate planning. One of the biggest mistakes when using a slow cooker is not allowing enough time for the meal. This can result in undercooked or overcooked food, ruining the flavor and texture.

Reading the recipe and following the recommended cooking time carefully is essential. Remember that cooking times can vary depending on the size and type of slow cooker and the recipe ingredients. Additionally, it’s best to start the meal prep early in the day to allow enough time for cooking and avoid rushing to finish the dish.

Not Drinking Enough Water During Meals 

Drinking water during meals is essential for proper digestion and hydration. Many people avoid drinking water during meals, thinking it will interfere with digestion or make them feel bloated. However, water is essential for breaking down food and transporting nutrients throughout the body.

Drinking water during meals can also help control portion sizes and prevent overeating. Drinking water before, during, and after meals is recommended to aid digestion and stay hydrated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to maintain optimal hydration and overall health. Drinking water with meals can be a healthy habit to maintain.

Not Adding Enough Seasoning to Vegetables 

Vegetables are a crucial part of a healthy diet, but many people need more seasoning, resulting in bland and unappetizing meals. Condiments such as herbs, spices, and citrus can enhance the natural flavors of vegetables and add depth and complexity to dishes.

Roasting vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper is a simple and flavorful way to prepare them. Other popular seasoning options include garlic, cumin, paprika, and lemon juice. Experimenting with different seasonings can help bring out the best in vegetables and make them more enjoyable.

Overloading the Pan 

When cooking, it’s tempting to add too many ingredients to the pan at once, leading to overcrowding and uneven cooking. Overloading the pan can also cause the food to steam instead of sautéing, resulting in soggy and unappetizing meals.

To avoid overcrowding, using a pan the right size for the food being cooked is essential. It’s also recommended to cook in batches if necessary, ensuring that each ingredient has enough space to cook evenly. This method also allows the food to develop a crisp exterior while retaining moisture and flavor.

Not Letting Meat Rest After Cooking 

Allowing the meat to rest after cooking is crucial for achieving a juicy and tender result. When meat is cooked, the heat causes the juices to move toward the center, which makes it taste dry. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes before cutting into it will enable the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

A good rule of thumb is to let the meat rest for at least five minutes for every pound cooked. During this time, it’s best to cover it with foil to keep it warm. Also, resting time allows the meat to continue cooking, so removing it from the heat just before it’s fully cooked is essential.