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Preparation of Simple Dishes

Preparation of simple dishes involves following a set of instructions to create meals that are easy to make and require minimal cooking skills. Here are some general steps to help you prepare simple dishes:

1. Choose a recipe: Select a simple recipe that includes only a few ingredients and doesn’t require complicated cooking techniques. You can find many recipes online or in cookbooks that are specifically designed for beginners.
2. Gather ingredients: Make a list of the ingredients you need for the recipe and purchase them ahead of time. Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients before you start cooking.
3. Prepare ingredients: Before you begin cooking, wash and chop any vegetables, measure out any ingredients, and prepare any other necessary components according to the recipe.
4. Follow the recipe: Follow the recipe instructions carefully, and pay attention to cooking times, temperatures, and other details. If you’re unsure about a step, read it over again or consult a cooking resource.
5. Cook the dish: Cook the dish according to the recipe, and keep an eye on it as it cooks to make sure it doesn’t burn or overcook.
6. Serve the dish: Once the dish is cooked, plate it and serve it while it’s still warm. Garnish it with herbs or other toppings, if desired.

Pancake (frying)

Materials:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Oil or cooking spray for frying
• Optional toppings (e.g. butter, syrup, fruit)

Equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Non-stick frying pan or griddle
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Methods:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk or stir the ingredients together until they are well combined.
2. In a separate bowl or measuring cup, beat the egg and then stir in the milk and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy – over-mixing can make the pancakes tough.
4. Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat. If using a frying pan, add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to the pan to prevent sticking.
5. Use a measuring cup or ladle to scoop about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until bubbles start to form on the surface of the pancake.
6. Use a spatula to flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, or until both sides are golden brown.
7. Transfer the pancake to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil or cooking spray as needed.
8. Serve the pancakes hot with your desired toppings, such as butter, syrup, or fruit. Enjoy!

Cake Making. ( Baking)

Materials:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula
• 9-inch cake pan
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Oven
• Cooling rack

Methods:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pan by lining it with parchment paper or coating it with cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until everything is well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
8. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. Serve the cake as desired, whether plain or frosted.

Egg Custard (Steamed or Baked)

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Steamed Custard:

• 4 ramekins or small heatproof bowls
• Water for steaming

For Baked Custard:

• 8×8 inch baking dish
• Water for baking

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) if baking the custard.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until fully combined.
3. Add in the milk, vanilla extract, and salt, and whisk until everything is fully mixed.
4. If baking the custard, pour the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. If steaming, pour the mixture evenly into 4 ramekins or small heatproof bowls.
5. If steaming the custard, place the ramekins or bowls into a large pot or steamer basket, and fill the pot with enough water to reach about 1 inch up the sides of the ramekins. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot with a lid. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set and jiggles slightly when shaken.
6. If baking the custard, place the dish in a larger baking dish or roasting pan. Fill the larger dish with water to create a water bath, making sure the water level reaches about 1 inch up the sides of the custard dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still jiggles slightly in the centre.
7. Remove the custard from the oven or pot, and allow it to cool to room temperature before serving.