Cooking at home or in an apartment can be healthful, worthwhile and cost effective. A researcher found that American taste takes priority over nutrition of food when it comes to buying one food over another. The foods you enjoy are likely the ones you eat the most, so make taste a priority when preparing nutritious, better-for-you meals.
To amplify a food's flavor and nutrition, start with quality ingredients – this does not mean it has to be the most expensive foods. It is also crucial to handle and store foods correctly, because poor storage destroys flavor and quality. Overcooking can destroy flavor and nutrients, so pay attention to the way you cook in order to keep nutrients, flavor, color, texture and overall appeal.
Try these seven simple techniques to enhance flavor and experiment with flavor combinations:
· Strengthen the flavors of meat, poultry, and fish with high heat cooking techniques, such as grilling, broiling or pan searing – these help to brown meat and add flavor. Do not overcook, burn or char meat.
· Grill or roast veggies in a high temperature oven or grill for a sweet, smoky flavor (450°F). Before putting them into the oven, brush or spray lightly with high heat oil (olive oil) and sprinkle herbs on top.
· Caramelize sliced onions to bring out their natural “sugar flavor” by cooking them slowly over low heat in a bit of olive oil. These can be used to make a rich, dark sauce for meat or poultry.
· Use red, green and yellow peppers of all varieties (sweet, hot and dried) or a dash of hot pepper sauce to add a little heat for taste.
· Add citrus juice or grated citrus peel of lemon, lime or orange for a tangy taste. Acidic ingredients such as these help lift and balance flavor.
· Use little amounts of ingredients with bold flavors such as cilantro, chipotle pepper or pomegranate seeds.
· Use quality condiments to add a burst of flavor, such as flavored mustard, chutney, wasabi, bean purees, tapenade, horseradish and salsas of all kinds.
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