How to write an original recipe

How to Write an Original Recipe: A Culinary Arts Checklist

Writing an original recipe starts with creative thinking and time in the kitchen. Whether you're a trained culinary artist or an excited home cook, you can create a completely new dish or put an interesting twist on a basic recipe. Once you have managed to produce a tasty creation, you'll need to write a recipe so that others can replicate your dish.

Every recipe needs to include some basic instructions and information. You want to ensure that others who use your recipe can get the same results as you.

Here's how to write an original recipe that is easy to follow:

  • Use a standard outline. Your recipe should have the title at top, then below, the number of servings and serving size, followed by ingredients and preparation instructions.
  • When listing ingredients, don't use proper names. Not all brands are available everywhere and some of your recipe users may not know what they are.
  • List the ingredients in the order you use them and with the amounts needed. This is helpful for putting together a grocery list. This allows the cook to go down the list as they use items and will help to prevent forgetting an item.
  • Break ingredients into elements of the recipe and make sure you state how the items will be used. Also, state if items are to be diced, peeled, melted, etc. This allows for the cook to prepare the ingredients before starting the recipe.
  • List the steps in the order than makes the most sense. For example, if the oven is being used you'll want to list preheat over to the correct temperature first and then move on to the next step.
  • Don't get wordy. Keep it simple and easy to read. Use short sentences and spacing between steps. If appropriate, include helpful tips like use a large mixing bowl, in a small bowl combine, whisk together, etc.
  • Don't just give the needed cooking temperatures and times. Oven temperatures can vary. You should give a description of how a finished product should appear to ensure that it comes out right. Let them know if something needs to be cooked until brown, until soft, etc.
  • Have a friend proofread your recipe to ensure that the recipe is easy to understand and the directions are clear.

Once you start doing this, you may decide that it's time to turn pro! If so, consider a degree program in the culinary arts. You could turn your love and enjoyment of cooking into a fulfilling and successful career. With a degree in the culinary arts, you could soon find yourself working at restaurants, resorts, hospitals, schools, universities, catering companies, and more.

Want to Learn About Culinary Arts?

Check out ECPI University's College of Culinary Arts, Culinary Institute of Virginia. It offers a hands-on learning experience and an accelerated, year-round program that can allow you to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in culinary Arts in as little as 15 months. Contact ECPI University today and learn how we can help you achieve your educational goals with a degree in Culinary Arts.

Learn more about ECPI University's College of Culinary Arts TODAY!

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