Cook's Notebook
Welcome to the Cooking Tips and Ingredient Information section of my blog! Here, you'll find a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and detailed information on how to prep, cook, and store a wide variety of ingredients. Whether you're looking to perfect your culinary skills or simply want to learn more about the foods you love, this is the place for you.
This is a live blog, so be sure to check back often—I’m constantly updating it with the latest insights and tips that complement the recipes and content across the site. To stay up to date and never miss out on new information, I encourage you to subscribe. Plus, if there's a specific topic you're curious about, feel free to reach out and request an article—this space is all about helping you in your culinary journey!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Discover essential tips and techniques for working with specific ingredient families in the ingredients section of my blog, designed to elevate your cooking and deepen your culinary knowledge.
- How to Prep Chicken Cutlets for Quick, Delicious Meals
- 10 Proven Spice‑Storage Hacks (Stop Wasting Flavor)
- How to Slice Chicken Perfectly Every Time
- Steak Grilling Times Chart: Perfect Temp & Cook Times
- How to Prep Collard Greens: Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Best Collard Greens Substitutes: 7 Leafy Greens
- How to Store Collard Greens | Fridge & Freezer Guide
- How to Trim and Slice Collard Greens (Step-by-Step Guide)
Equipment
Explore the equipment section of my blog to discover the best tools for your kitchen, learn how to use them effectively, and uncover creative ways to maximize their efficiency in your cooking.
- Understanding Food Temperature Safety Zones: Cook, Store & Serve Safely
- Upgrade or Skip? How to Know When a Kitchen Tool Is Worth the Investment
- What Not to Buy: 7 Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing Kitchen Tools
- 10 Essential Time-Saving Kitchen Tools Every Home Cook Needs
- Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Kids: 5 Essentials That Turn Chaos into Confidence
- How to Use a Citrus Squeezer for Max Juice
- How to Wash Fresh Herbs the Right Way Before Use
- Why Every Home Cook Needs a Dutch Oven (And My Top Picks!)
Recently Updated
These are live articles that will be periodically updated with new information.
- Best Cast Iron Skillet Care | Cooking, Cleaning to Seasoning
- Guide to Shrimp: How to Clean, Cook, and Choose the Best
- How to Chop Onions Without Crying (Quick Method)
- How to Cut Chicken: Prepping to Cooking Tutorials
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Chef Maika Frederic
Chef and Educator
Haitian-American chef and educator Maika Frederic blends bold flavors with approachable recipes. With a background in both professional kitchens, classrooms, and children therapy—as a trained chef, former teacher and technician—she brings a thoughtful, inclusive touch to every dish. Through her platform, Just Maika Cooking, she shares diverse meals and practical tips to empower home cooks of all ages and levels.