Ditch the recipes (for now)

A recipe is like a detailed roadmap that outlines one way of getting to a specific endpoint. If you follow the directions closely, you should be able to reach your final destination. But if you don't know how to drive, the end result could be a disaster. Focus instead on understanding basic cooking processes, skills and techniques, such as baking, roasting, steaming, sauteing and grilling. Many resources are available in print and online to help you learn. Once you're comfortable in the kitchen, you should be able to master even the most complex of recipes.