Cooking isn’t just about ingredients — it’s about rhythm

One of the most overlooked elements of great cooking is timing. Not just "how long" something takes — but when you do it.

Letting your protein rest, adding fresh herbs at the end, and plating immediately are small decisions that have huge impact.

Mise en place isn’t just for chefs

Prepare everything in advance. Timing falls apart when you're searching for a lemon while your sauce burns.

By mastering timing and preparation, your food stays hot, your flavors stay intact, and your stress disappears.

Knowing when not to touch something is part of the skill. Let your pan heat, your dough rest, your steak sit — patience cooks flavor.

Work backwards from the plate. Think about how long each part takes and layer your actions accordingly.

Try this at home

• Rest meat 5–10 minutes after cooking.

• Plate side dishes first, mains last.

• Have all herbs chopped before you light the pan.