In the pursuit of healthy eating, proper food washing and cooking methods are the key steps to ensure that food is nutritious and safe to eat. Understanding and mastering these tips will not only improve the taste and nutritional value of food, but also prevent foodborne illness. Below, you'll learn more about the know-how and specific tips for washing and cooking.
Ingredients can be contaminated with soil, dust, pesticide residues, microorganisms, etc., during the process of moving from farm to table. Proper cleaning methods can effectively remove these contaminants and reduce the risk of food poisoning.
Wash vegetables and fruits: For vegetables and fruits, first rinse thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and microorganisms from the surface. For uneven surface ingredients, such as cauliflower, strawberries, etc., you can soak them in lightly salted water for about 15 minutes before rinsing them with clean water, which can better remove contaminants hidden in the crevices. For crusty fruits and vegetables, such as apples and cucumbers, you can use a soft-bristled brush under running water.
Wash meat and seafood: Meat and seafood should be quickly rinsed under cold water to remove blood and impurities from the surface. Avoid using warm or hot water for cleaning, as this can lead to rapid multiplication of bacteria. After washing, kitchen paper towels should be used to absorb moisture to reduce the chance of bacterial growth.
Keep food nutritious: During cooking, the nutrients in food are easily lost due to high heat or prolonged heating. In order to maximize the retention of nutrients, it is recommended to use cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, and stewing. For example, steamed vegetables can maintain the color and nutrients of the vegetables; Slow-cooked meat is able to retain its protein and minerals.
Control the cooking temperature and time: Different ingredients have different requirements for cooking temperature and time. High-heat stir-frying can lock in nutrients and moisture in food, but it is not suitable for all ingredients. Slow cooking is suitable for meat and root vegetables, which can make food softer and easier to digest and absorb. Getting it right is essential to keep your food nutritious and flavorful.
Use healthy cooking oilsChoosing the right cooking oil is also an important part of ensuring a healthy cooking. Oils with high content of unsaturated fatty acids such as olive oil and peanut oil are suitable for low-temperature cooking; Oils that are resistant to high temperatures, such as corn oil and sunflower oil, are more suitable for high-temperature cooking.
Avoid cross-contamination: During the cooking process, the handling tools and containers of raw and cooked foods should be strictly separated, and direct contact between raw ingredients (especially meat and seafood) and cooked foods should be avoided to prevent cross-contamination of bacteria.
Mastering the professional knowledge and skills of food washing and cooking can not only enhance the taste and nutritional value of food, but also ensure our food safety. With the right cleaning and cooking methods, we can enjoy healthy and delicious meals while also safeguarding the health of ourselves and our families. In our daily lives, let's all become experts in cleaning and cooking ingredients, and enjoy the fun of healthy eating. **10,000 Fans Incentive Plan