Natalia

Discover the Secrets of a Top-Notch Culinary Academy

Cooking School Discover the Secrets of a Top-Notch Culinary Academy Learn the fundamentals of cooking and baking at a culinary academy and become a master chef. Discover what sets a top-notch culinary academy apart and how to choose the right one for you. Enroll today! START NOW Are you considering a career in the culinary arts? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know to get started on your culinary journey and achieve success in this exciting and rewarding field.   What is Culinary Arts? Culinary arts is the art of cooking and preparing food. It encompasses a wide range of skills, including recipe creation, food presentation, and kitchen management. Culinary arts professionals work in a variety of settings, from fine dining restaurants to institutional kitchens. Why Pursue a Career in Culinary Arts? A career in culinary arts offers many benefits, including the opportunity to be creative, the potential for high earnings, and the satisfaction of feeding people and making them happy. In addition, the demand for skilled culinary professionals is growing, making it a great field to enter.   Steps to Starting Your Culinary Career Develop Your Cooking Skills The first step to starting your culinary career is to develop your cooking skills. This can be done by taking cooking classes, working in a kitchen, or simply practicing at home. Get Educated A culinary education is an important step to take if you want to be successful in the culinary arts. There are many great culinary schools and programs available, so be sure to research your options and choose the one that’s right for you. Gain Experience Experience is key in the culinary arts, so be sure to gain as much as you can. This can be done by working in a kitchen, interning with a chef, or participating in culinary competitions. Network Networking is important in any career, and the culinary arts are no exception. Attend culinary events, join professional organizations, and connect with other culinary professionals to build your network and learn from others in the field.   Skills Needed to Succeed in the Culinary Arts To be successful in the culinary arts, you will need to have a variety of skills, including: Creativity Attention to detail Strong organizational skills Excellent communication skills Physical dexterity Stamina Leadership skills   Conclusion A career in the culinary arts can be both rewarding and challenging. By following the steps outlined in this guide and developing the necessary skills, you can start your culinary journey and achieve success in this exciting field. So why wait? Get started today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the culinary arts! Join Culinary academy

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World's 50 Best Hotels

The World’s 50 Best Hotels to launch in 2023

The World’s 50 Best Hotels to launch in 2023 Earlier on this month World’s 50 Best organization had announced that it will now be releasing World’s 50 Best Hotels, along side their better known World’s 50 Best Restaurants and World’s 50 Best Bars. Hurray! Now we have another hotel rating system to base our vocational decisions on. But how reliable is it going to be? And do we really need one? What hotel rating systems do already exist? The most widely used hotel ratings use stars and diamonds to rate hotels. The process of determining a hotel’s star rating is typically conducted by a third-party organization such as Mobil Travel Guide (yes, Michelin tire company rate restaurants and Mobil oil and gas – hotels… it all makes sense), nowadays known as Forbes Travel Guide. AAA (American Automobile Association) is also very popular hotel rating system that uses diamonds instead of stars. These organizations send anonymous inspectors to evaluate hotels on a variety of factors, including room cleanliness and maintenance, staff friendliness and helpfulness, and the overall condition of the property. It’s important to note that the star rating system is not uniform across all countries, and different countries may have different criteria for determining a hotel’s rating. For example in Europe the most well-known organization to rate hotels is the Hotelstars Union. The organization was established in 2010, and currently includes 20 European countries, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The Hotelstars Union rating system uses a scale of one to five stars, with one star indicating a basic hotel and five stars indicating a luxury hotel. The criteria for determining a hotel’s rating include the quality of the accommodations, the level of service provided by staff, and the amenities offered. Another well-known hotel rating organization in Europe is the AA Hotel and Hospitality Services, that also uses a scale of one to five stars to rate hotels. However, several, we would even dare to say most popular European tourism destinations, do not use these systems so widely and instead prefer to use their own rating systems to classify hotels. For example, France’s hotels are rated by the Atout France, the French national tourist board, and Italy’s hotels are rated by Italian Hotel Classification, which is managed by the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT).  Here’s a nice video to watch about the existing hotel rating systems, if you want to learn more about it. So here comes the question: do we really need another hotel rating agency? Well… World’s 50 Best Hotels won’t really be rating each hotel. Just like with restaurants and bars, any hotel would consider to be lucky just to make the list. So it’ll be more of an award, rather than a typical rating. How reliable will this hotel award system be? World’s 50 best promises it to be as reliable and objective as their other 2 lists are… 580 voters around the world, comprised of supposedly impartial industry professionals: 50% travel journalists, 30% hoteliers and 20% seasoned luxury travellers (so we are guessing, don’t expect to find any “non-luxury hotels” on the list), will vote on annual basis for the best hotel that they had supposedly visited that given year. We’ve all heard rumours on how in reality these ratings are being made… so let’s just leave it there. Maybe it’s going to be way better? It’s a brand new listing after all! New year, new beginnings! 580 people is a lot of people after all… The question remains nevertheless, whether another hotel rating / listing system is really needed… We’d say that it obviously is just another marketing tool. Those hotels that have already good marketing systems and important connections in place may be eligible to be “lucky” to get on the list. And good for them! Being on the list will definitely boost their occupancy during the year. Plus it’s kinda nice to have a unified list of Top Best Hotels in the whole world to aspire to visit one day. But if you are running an exceptional, but unknown hotel with no website, no social media and no marketing in place, don’t get illusional… it’s all about branding and connections.

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Food trends 2023 2. Non-alcoholic drinks

Top 10 food trends of 2023

Top 10 Food Trends of 2023 The food industry is constantly evolving, and this year is no exception. From solo dining to non-alcoholic drinks, there are plenty of trends worth paying attention to. Keep reading to learn more about these and other exciting food trends of 2023. #1 Solo dining Eating alone doesn’t have to be a lonely experience! Solo dining has actually become one of the pretty popular food trends lately, and there are a bunch of reasons why. For starters, with the rise of the gig economy and more people working remotely, there’s more flexibility in our schedules to grab a quick bite whenever we have a free moment. Technology has also made it super easy to enjoy a meal solo. With all the food delivery apps out there, we can order takeout or delivery from just about any restaurant without even leaving our home or office. So convenient! But here’s the best part: solo dining is no longer seen as a weird or socially unacceptable thing to do. In fact, it’s become a sign of independence and self-sufficiency. More and more people are totally comfortable eating alone at restaurants or outdoor cafes. So next time you find yourself without anyone to dine with, don’t sweat it! Embrace the opportunity to treat yourself to a solo meal, enjoy the freedom and convenience that comes with it and don’t forget to share your experience on Social Media with trending hashtags #SoloDate and #DinngAlone. #2 Non-alcoholic drinks Non-alcoholic drinks are having a moment! And honestly, it’s about time. Gone are the days when the only option for non-drinkers was a boring old soda or a weak-ass virgin cocktail. Nowadays, there are so many tasty and creative non-alcoholic options out there that even the biggest party animals can get behind. There are tons of non-alcoholic “mocktails” made with fresh juices and herbs, non-alcoholic beers and ciders that actually taste good, and even fancy non-alcoholic spirits like Seedlip that can be mixed into cocktails. But here’s the thing: non-alcoholic drinks aren’t just for people who don’t drink alcohol. More and more people are opting to cut back on their alcohol consumption, whether it’s for health reasons or just to mix things up. And with all the delicious non-alcoholic options out there, it’s easier than ever to do so. #3 Dining as experience Foodies, get ready! Because 2023 is all about dining as an experience. Gone are the days of just grabbing a quick bite and rushing out the door. Now, it’s all about immersive dining – think dinner in a secret underground speakeasy, or a multi-course meal served in a fancy treehouse. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, molecular gastronomy is making a comeback! This high-tech cooking style involves using science to transform ingredients into unexpected and delicious forms. Think liquid nitrogen ice cream and foam-topped cocktails. So if you’re looking for something a little more exciting than your usual dinner routine, keep an eye out for these immersive and molecular dining experiences food trends of 2023. They’re sure to blow your taste buds away! #4 Upcycling food scraps The hottest food trend of 2023 is all about upcycling and using ingredients that might have been overlooked in the past. We’re talking about those bits and pieces of food that usually get tossed in the trash – think carrot pulp, broccoli stems, and even stale bread. But instead of throwing these scraps away, clever chefs are finding ways to use them in delicious and creative dishes. And it’s not just food scraps that are getting a second chance. More and more chefs are using ingredients that are typically ignored or overlooked, like wild herbs and flowers, foraged mushrooms, and even maple leaves and birch stems. Not only is this trend good for the environment (less food waste is always a good thing), but it’s also super exciting for foodies. These unexpected ingredients add a ton of flavor and interest to dishes, and they’re a great way to try something new. #5 Influencers influence The next food trend is already trending online, it’s only a matter of time before it shows up on a menu near you. Take the rainbow food craze, for example. One minute, you’re scrolling through Instagram or TikTok and seeing a few funky colored bagels here and there. The next thing you know, every restaurant in town is offering rainbow-hued everything. It’s like the internet has some kind of magical power to turn weird food ideas into mainstream must-haves. So if you want to know what’s going to be the next big thing in food, just keep an eye on your social media feeds, especially TikTok. Or, you know, you could just stick to the tried and true classics. Your call. #6 AI recipe development If you are a Pro-Chef, the major part of your job probably consists of tinkering with recipes and trying to figure out the best way to optimize your menu for maximum profitability. Well, AI is here to save your day (and your sanity). With the help of AI software, you can create and troubleshoot recipes in a fraction of the time it would take you to do it manually. And if that wasn’t enough, it can also help you optimize your menu for maximum profit. No more guesswork or trial and error (or at least not as much) – just delicious, profitable dishes. But don’t worry, AI isn’t here to steal all your jobs. It’s just here to make your life a little easier and give you more time to do what you do best: create amazing food. #7 Workplace sustainability Restaurant and hospitality industry had taken a big hit during Covid… Not only because it was forced to be closed and suffer losses, but also because more and more industry workers realized during the forced time off, that they might want more of a life-work balance moving forward… and more of humane work conditions. So, now restaurants and hotels all over the

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cooking skills

10 Expert Tips and Techniques to Boost Your Cooking Skills and Elevate Your Dishes

10 Expert Tips and Techniques to Boost Your Cooking Skills and Elevate Your Dishes If you’re looking to improve your cooking skills and take your dishes to the next level, these 10 pieces of advice from world famous Chefs will help you get there. From selecting high-quality ingredients to experimenting with new techniques, these tips will help you master the art of cooking. Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Gordon Ramsay One of the keys to delicious cooking is starting with the best ingredients you can find. Whether it’s fresh produce, choice cuts of meat, or artisanal cheeses, using top-notch ingredients will make a big difference in the final result of your dishes. Taste your food as you cook it, and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Julia Child Cooking is all about taste, so make sure to taste your food as you go along and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Don’t be afraid to add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs to bring out the flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things in the kitchen. Bobby Flay One of the best ways to improve your cooking skills is to be adventurous and try new things. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and techniques. You never know what delicious creations you might come up with! Keep a well-stocked pantry and fridge, so you always have the ingredients you need on hand. Ina Garten One of the keys to successful cooking is being prepared. Make sure you always have a well-stocked pantry and fridge, so you have the ingredients you need at your fingertips when you want to whip up a meal. Invest in good knives and take care of them properly. Anthony Bourdain Good knives are an essential tool in any kitchen. Invest in a few high-quality knives and take care of them properly by sharpening and honing them regularly. Trust us, they’ll make a world of difference in your cooking. How to sharpen a knife Always taste your food before serving it to others. Nigella Lawson It’s important to taste your food before serving it to others to ensure it’s seasoned properly and tastes great. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments to the seasoning if needed. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes in the kitchen. That’s how you learn and improve. Rachel Ray Cooking is all about experimentation and learning from your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make mistakes in the kitchen. It’s all part of the learning process. Work clean as you cook. It will save you time and make for a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience. Wolfgang Puck Working clean as you cook not only helps keep your kitchen organized, but it also saves time and makes the cooking process more enjoyable. Make sure to clean up as you go along and you’ll be able to focus on the task at hand. Use fresh herbs and spices to add flavor to your dishes. Jamie Oliver Fresh herbs and spices can add a ton of flavor to your dishes. Don’t be afraid to use them liberally to bring out the natural flavors of your ingredients. Take your time and don’t rush the cooking process. Good food takes time. Emeril Lagasse Good food takes time, so don’t be in a rush when you’re cooking. Take your time and pay attention to the details, and you’ll be rewarded with delicious meals that are worth the wait. By following these 10 pieces of advice from famous chefs, you’ll be well on your way to improving your cooking skills and creating delicious meals in your own. Join Culinary Academy

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How to Plate Food According to a Pro Chef

How to plate food According to a Pro Chef By Chef Rudakova Guide to Food Plating If you are wondering how to plate food according to a pro Chef,  you might think that successful food plating is all about mastering a variety of puree swooshes on the plate. Well, at least that’s what you’ve seen plenty of on your Social Media feed, right? But, I’m here to tell you otherwise. I’m here to tell you, that knowing how to creatively spread your puree on a plate might come in handy from time to time. However, this culinary skill won’t get you far when it comes to professional food presentation. On top of that, believe it or not, but food plating also have fashion seasons that come and go. Five years ago it was very trendy to splash the sauce all over the plate and place ingredients chaotically on the dish. Two years ago everyone was obsessed with micro greens. Nowadays, none of that is considered a good taste, but rather it is preferred to follow the minimalistic Scandinavian way of plating. So if not swooshes and not following the trends, how to be always good at food plating and be able to consistently make your food look beautiful? Easy, I’ve created this short food plating checklist on how to plate food according to a pro Chef. If you follow all the guidance on this checklist, you’ll be able to present your food, no matter what it is, would it be a simple sandwich or a full course meal, in an elegant, beautiful manner at all times. Questions you need to ask yourself STEP 1 Think of who is your guest? Who are you serving your food to? Do you have a fine-dining style meal and your guests expect elevated food presentation?   Are you cooking food for your friends and family? Is the style of dining shared plates or individual plating? Or are you cooking your food for your kids, who are looking for more fun and interactive food presentation? Make a food plating plan STEP 2 Once you’ve identified who your target audience is and what their expectations of dining experience are, make a plan. Create several plating plans, literally draw / sketch your dish. Make sure to include colours and identify each ingredient on a plate. You’ll be surprised how many times even the professional Chefs change their initial dish recipes and all the consequent food preparation, after drawing a plating down. Ingredients and garnishes could be easily substituted at the food plating planning stage, just because of their colour or size. So, it’s always worth to put these plans down as early as possible. Answer the question: STEP 3 What is your main ingredient? Can you easily identify it on a plate? Your food plating should highlight the main ingredient instead of hiding it. Garnishes and other ingredients are here to support your main ingredient and not to overwhelm the plate. Use maximum 3 colors on a plate STEP 4 Use maximum 3 colors on a plate, including the color of a plate (if it’s not white). This is a general rule. If you follow it, you’ll be able to plate amazing food at all times. However, there’re always exceptions to any rules, about which I talk in more details in my free Food Plating class. Is everything on your plate edible? STEP 5 Although it might be tempting to incorporate some non-edible elements in your food plating… trust me, it’s not a good idea. The non-spoken rule of food plating that all the professional Chefs follow rigorously is to avoid non-edible elements in their dishes presentation. One of the very few exceptions out of this rule could be shells from shellfish (if you serve shellfish). Otherwise, avoid at all costs, no matter how more elevated or aesthetically pleasing these non-edible items make your food look on a plate. food styling STEP 6 If your food styling is above casual, your food cuts must be perfect and identical. This is a very easy rule of food plating to follow, but boy, how much difference it makes. look at your final plate STEP 7 When you look at your final plate, do you get a sense of harmony? If not, it’s time to make changes. Make sure there’s unity & harmony among the dish components (think of colours, sizes, shapes etc.) Consider your plate wisely STEP 8 Firstly, chose a plate of the right size. Too large of a plate will create an illusion like there’s not enough of food on a plate, and vice versa. Secondly, think about the shape, color and pattern of your plate. Make professional Chefs plate amazing food with a very simplistic style by playing around plate curves of interesting patterns. Keep sustainability in mind STEP 9 When you are in doubt what garnish to use for your food presentation, think of the byproducts and trims from the main ingredient. Not only incorporating them in a dish will make total sense in terms of flavour combinations, but will also make your food plating more sustainable and harmonious. For example, carrot shavings can create a great gaining for a carrot dish, if dehydrated and powdered. plating STEP 10 Finally, consider if your plating is trendy or timeless. Both are fine, as long as your understand it, it matches expectations of your guests and you follow all the above best practices, when it comes to plating amazing food.   P.S.: Enroll in my absolutely free Course “How to Plate Food Like a Pro Chef” Click Here. About Me Hi, my name is Natalia a.k.a. Chef Rudakova I’m a professional Chef and a culinary instructor. You might know me from my YouTube channel, where I showcase modernistic recipes and plating techniques, or from my collaborations with different world-known cooking brands, like FDL by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna and Chef Works. Youtube Instagram Tiktok Online Plating Course $50

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