10 Things You Should Know to Impress Your Special Someone

Hopeless romantics that we are, we still believe that the best way to a man’s (or a woman’s) heart is through his (or her) stomach.  Here’s a list of musts.  What you need to know to impress your special someone – to create nothing like a special meal prepared and perfected these season to be spent with our Love Ones.

Find out what your partner’s favorites are and incorporate it in your season’s menu.  Focus on the details such as making sure that the ingredients are available and menu items are balanced in terms of textures, cooking methods and flavors.  Make sure that you also keep it within your set budget.  No need to go overboard, since special meals should not mean expensive.

Using sharpening steel, hold the knife at an angle, then from the bolster, slide it in the direction of the knife’s tip.  Do this alternately on both sides, following just one direction (bolster to tip).

Whether using a rice cooker or a classic saucepot, a 1:1 rice to water ratio is followed for medium and long grain rice; while a 1:1.5 rice to water ratio is used for risotto or Arborio rice. For sticky (malagkit) rice, follow a 1:2 rice to water proportion. Don’t forget to wash rice at least once prior to cooking.

In a medium saucepan, boil water then reduce heat to a simmer. Carefully add the eggs (with the use of a ladle) and cook for 15 minutes for hard-cooked and 12 minutes for soft-cooked.

Cut chicken through the joint and never across the bone to prevent bone chips.  This may also be done with the use of poultry shears.

Using a large pasta pot, fill it with enough water for your pasta to “swim” around.  When boiling, add salt and slide in your pasta.  Cook “al dente” (firm to the bite) and check the label for the recommended cooking time.  This will vary depending on the type of pasta.  Drain in running water.  No need to ad oil if you intend to use this right away.

Steaks are surprisingly easy to prepare, as you only need to season it with salt and pepper prior to cooking.  Heat a skillet until smoking, brush with a little clarified butter, and then place your steaks.  Cook (without poking, just leave it please!) the steak for three minutes per side (well done), two minutes per side (for medium) and one minute per side (for rare) over moderate heat.  You may also opt to place the steak in the oven for a couple more minutes to further cook it.

Use only edible items when garnishing your plate.  For consistency, use herbs or spices that complement the dish.

Impress your special someone with a simple, easy to prepare cocktail, which you will enjoy.  How about a classic martini or fruity sangria?  Anything from wines to mixed drinks paired with some appetizers will help you relax and put both of you in the mood.

Serve and impress your loved one by bringing out your best wares and by ensuring that all the food you prepare are properly served.  Place the dishes from the right side of your guests’ shoulder and clear the table from the left side.