Mise en Place (French) - Everything in its Place (English)

 Whether pronounced in French or  English, Mise en Place is an important part of meal preparation. Technically, this French term is for all the prep work that is carried out before the meal. For us, home cooks, it is a great way of keeping organized and accurate when following and preparing a recipe. It also helps create a “flow” so you can keep moving without stopping to chop, peel or dice… It's efficient.

First, read your recipe to make sure you understand your steps, your ingredients, and your timing. Take out the necessary utensils, bowls, pots, etc. that you will need. Wash and cut your vegetables and place into sections or bowls. Measure. Be ready before you start. Clean as you go. You might be tempted to “wing it.” Don’t. Especially not when baking. How many times have you been interrupted and couldn’t remember how many eggs you put in the batter or if you forgot the baking powder? Guilty as charged! This discipline is a safety measure to ensure that the integrity and consistency of the dish you are preparing, is maintained.

Staying organized makes clean up easier. Most people don’t want to cook because they don’t want the mess. You don’t have to make one.

If you find that you don’t have the energy to dig in and take on a recipe, don’t. Cooking should be enjoyable. Make something simple that night. If you develop the habit of Mise en Place, you might find your organizational skills approve across the board.

Merci beaucoup (French)

                                                                         Thank you (English)

                                                                         Bon Appetit (Universal)