If you want to become a chef, it takes more than just a love of food. You also need to hone your skills, and this often requires culinary school. Whether you are looking to move into fine dining or are more interested in catering, the best culinary schools will help you take the next step in your career.
Culinary school isn’t a prerequisite for becoming a top-notch cook, but it can be the best choice for many people. It offers a rigorous, structured way to learn the fundamentals of cooking, as well as how to apply them in a professional kitchen. In addition, students can earn a degree that can lead to a number of different careers. There are a number of benefits to going to culinary school, including a higher salary and the chance to work in some of the world’s most prestigious restaurants.
The world’s top culinary institutions are a must-visit for any traveler, but there are also some great options closer to home. The Metropolitan Community College in Omaha, Nebraska, for example, has a top-rated program that offers low tuition prices and the opportunity to gain real-world experience. Students can work in the school’s student-run restaurant, which serves Italian, French and American cuisine, as well as cafe fare.
One of the most coveted distinctions in the culinary world is to be named one of the world’s 50 best restaurants. The award, which was only launched in 2002, is like the Oscars for the food world. A spot on the list is an achievement to be proud of, and it provides a boost to business for restaurants on the list.
But the awards have come under scrutiny lately, largely because of the #MeToo movement. The awards are dominated by white men, and last year’s winners included some who were accused of sexual harassment. It appears that the foundation is trying to address this problem, and changes could be on the horizon.
Cookbooks can be some of the most interesting and informative culinary texts. They can offer stunning visuals of food exactly as it is served at Michelin-starred restaurants, or they can contain thoughtful ruminations about the sources of culinary creativity from chefs who have devoted their lives to learning about the craft. Nigella Lawson’s How to Eat, which is full of evocative prose, is a case in point.
Other culinary books provide a more practical approach to cooking, helping you master specific techniques and build up your repertoire. These include titles from the likes of Jesper Jonsson and Daniel Bearss, whose The Flavor Bible is an invaluable resource for finding out which seasonings work well with different dishes and cuisines. Their other best-selling book, Talk to the Chef!, is a series of interviews with chefs about their craft and life. The interviews are entertaining and informative, and you might even learn something new about your favorite chefs along the way. These cookbooks make excellent gifts for chefs in your life, or they’re a good choice for anyone who loves to cook.