The 6 basic ingredients to any beginner in the kitchen

If you are taking your first steps in the kitchen, it is essential to have at least 6 of the basic ingredients that will allow you to prepare a wide variety of delicious dishes. These items are not only versatile, but they are also the basis for creating recipes tasty and nutritious. In this article, we present to you the 6 essential ingredients you can not miss in your pantry. In addition, we'll give you practical tips, trivia, and recommendations for you to become an expert culinary. Get ready to discover the world of the kitchen with these essential ingredients! 

 

1 - Salt: The Perfect Ally to Highlight Flavors

The salt it is one of the most important ingredients in the kitchen. Not only enhances the flavor of foods, but also influences the texture, conservation and presentation. There are different types of salt, each one with unique features that can transform your dishes: 

Types of Salt and Their Uses 

• Sea salt: Obtained by the evaporation of sea water, has a more intense flavor, and mineral. It is ideal for grilled meats, fish and vegetables. 

• Table salt: The refined salt found in most households. Perfect for stews, sauces and dishes of the day. 

• Kosher salt: More coarse than table salt, it adheres better to the food. It is excellent as a condiment for meats, prior to cooking. 

• Sales-based: Mixed with herbs, spices or other flavors, these are ideal for adding an extra touch of flavor to your dishes. 

Tips for Using Salt 

• Balance: Don't over salt, a little bit you can highlight the flavors, but too much can ruin a dish. 

• Experimentation: Test different types of salt to find out which one is best suited to your recipes. 

The salt is a versatile ingredient and is fundamental in the kitchen. Knowing their varieties and uses will allow you to take your dishes to the next level. 

 

2 - Olive Oil: Health and Flavor in Every Dish

The second of the 6 basic ingredients in the kitchen is the olive oil it is a versatile ingredient and healthy you can't miss in your kitchen. In addition to its delicious taste, it is well-known for their beneficial properties for the health. 

Health benefits of Olive Oil 

• Monounsaturated fatty acids: Help to reduce the LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase the HDL (good) cholesterol, which contributes to cardiovascular health. 

• Antioxidants: Such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. 

Uses in the Kitchen 

• Seasoning: Perfect for salads and cold dishes. 

• Cooking: Ideal for sautéing vegetables, marinate meat and fish. 

• Final touch: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can enhance the taste of your dishes. 

Tips for Choosing the Best Olive Oil 

• Quality: Opt for extra virgin olive oil, which is obtained by a process of cold extraction. 

• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place to preserve its properties. 

Olive oil is an indispensable partner in the kitchen, which not only brings flavor and aroma, but also contributes to a balanced diet and healthy. 

 

3 - Black Pepper: A Touch of Aroma and Spicy

The black pepper it is an essential spice that adds a slightly spicy flavor and aroma to your dishes. In addition to its culinary use, are attributed medicinal properties. 

Benefits of Black Pepper 

• Digestive: Helps to improve digestion and reduce the swelling. 

• Antioxidant: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. 

• Anti-inflammatory: You can help to reduce inflammation in the body. 

Uses in the Kitchen 

• Meat and poultry: Add a touch of flavor and aroma. 

• Soups and stews: Enhances the flavors of your preparations. 

• Sauces and marinades: Perfect to give a touch spicy. 

Tips for Using Black Pepper 

• Fresh: Grind the pepper just before using it to make the most of their flavor and aroma. 

• Balance: Use it sparingly to not overpower the flavors of your dishes. 

The black pepper is an essential ingredient in the kitchen, which not only adds flavor but also health benefits. 

 

4 - Garlic: Intense Flavor and Health Benefits

The garlic it is a fundamental ingredient in the cuisine of many cultures. Its intense flavor and characteristic gives a special touch to any dish. 

Benefits of Garlic 

• Cardiovascular: Helps to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health. 

• Immune: Strengthens the immune system and helps fight infections. 

• Antioxidant: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. 

Uses in the Kitchen 

• Sofrito: The basis for sauces, stews and soups. 

• Marinated: Ideal for meat and fish. 

• Seasoning: Add a touch of flavor to salads and cold dishes. 

Tips for Using the Garlic 

• Fresh: Used fresh garlic for a more intense flavor. 

• Cooking: Cook on low heat to avoid burning and bitter. 

Garlic is a versatile ingredient and beneficial to health, you can not miss in your kitchen. 

 

5 - Onion: Versatility and Flavor in Every Bite

The onion it is an essential ingredient in the cuisine world. Its characteristic flavour and versatility make it an essential element in the preparation of multiple dishes. 

Onion varieties and Their Uses 

• White onion: Ideal for salads and dishes raw. 

• Red onion: Adds a touch of color and intense flavor. 

• Sweet onion: Perfect for caramelizing, and use in oven-baked dishes. 

Uses in the Kitchen 

• Sofrito: The basis for sauces, stews and soups. 

• Sautéed: Adds a touch of crispy to your dishes. 

• Caramelized: Ideal for sweet and savoury dishes. 

Tips for Using the Onion 

• Cut: Cut the onion into chunks for a homogeneous cooking. 

• Storage: Store in a cool and dry place to prolong its useful life. 

The onion is an ingredient that is versatile and full of flavor, you can't miss in your kitchen. 

 

6 - Herbs: Freshness and Aroma in Your Kitchen

The aromatic herbs you are a treasure in the kitchen. Parsley, basil, rosemary, and thyme are just some of the options that you can use for adding freshness and aroma to your dishes. 

Benefits of Herbs 

• Flavor: Add a touch of fresh and aromatic to your dishes. 

• Health: Many herbs have anti-oxidant properties and anti-inflammatory. 

Uses in the Kitchen 

• Salads: Parsley and cilantro are ideal for fresh food. 

• Pasta: The basil is perfect for sauces and pizzas. 

• Meats: Rosemary and thyme are great for roasts and stews. 

Tips for Using Herbs 

• Fresh: Uses fresh herbs for a more intense flavor. 

• Storage: Store in the refrigerator or dry to prolong its useful life. 

Aromatic herbs are an essential component in your kitchen, which not only add flavor but also health benefits. 

 

It equips Your Pantry with these 6 Basic Ingredients and Start to Cook! 

With these 6 basic ingredients in your pantry, you'll be ready to prepare a wide variety of meals are delicious and nutritious. The salt, the olive oil, the black pepper, the garlic, the onion and the aromatic herbs they are the basis to create recipes that will surprise your guests. 

What are you waiting for to start? Equip your kitchen with these ingredients and discover the pleasure of cooking. Share your creations on social networks using the hashtag #CocinaConEsencia and etiquétanos so we can see your delicious results. The culinary world is waiting for you!