How to Become a Cook

Complete High School

Completing high school is the first step in becoming a cook. During this period, students develop essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and time management. While cooking may not be part of the curriculum, students can join cooking clubs or home economics classes to gain exposure. High school education serves as a foundation for further culinary learning and sets the stage for pursuing culinary arts in college or vocational programs. Additionally, practical experience through part-time jobs or volunteering in food-related settings can be valuable during high school.

Get Culinary Education and Training

Culinary training and education is a crucial step in becoming a cook. It involves enrolling in a culinary school, college, or vocational institute to receive formal education and practical experience in the field of culinary arts. The process may culminate in the completion of a culinary degree if you so wish, opening doors to advanced opportunities and a recognized credential in the world of gastronomy.

During culinary training, aspiring cooks learn a wide range of culinary techniques, cooking methods, and kitchen management skills. The training typically includes theoretical classes and hands-on experience in professional kitchens. Students gain knowledge about food safety and sanitation, nutrition, menu planning, and culinary theory.

Culinary training provides a strong foundation for aspiring cooks, helping them refine their skills and develop a deeper understanding of various cuisines. It also offers an opportunity to specialize in specific culinary areas, such as baking and pastry arts, international cuisine, or culinary management.

Culinary training is not only about learning recipes but also about honing creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. It allows cooks to explore their passion for cooking and prepares them for a successful career in the culinary field. After completing culinary training, some cooks may choose to seek additional certifications to showcase their expertise, such as obtaining a food safety certification like ServSafe.

Do I Need a Culinary Degree to Become a Cook?

No, you do not necessarily need a culinary degree to become a cook. While formal culinary education can be beneficial and provide a strong foundation of skills and knowledge, it is not the only path to becoming a cook.

What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Culinary Degree?

While a culinary degree is not a prerequisite to becoming a cook, it can be important for several reasons. First, a culinary degree provides a comprehensive and structured education in various culinary techniques, cooking principles, and kitchen management. It offers a well-rounded foundation that covers essential skills, food safety, and nutrition.

Second, having a culinary degree can make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Some higher-level culinary positions, such as executive chef or sous chef in reputable restaurants or hotels, may prefer candidates with a formal culinary education.

Third, culinary programs often include valuable hands-on experience through internships or externships, which allow students to work in real-world kitchen settings under the guidance of experienced chefs. This practical training can enhance your skills and confidence in the kitchen.

Lastly, a culinary degree may provide networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with industry professionals, potential mentors, and future colleagues. These connections can open doors to job opportunities and career growth.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Culinary Arts Degree?

The duration to obtain a culinary arts degree can vary depending on the type of program you choose and your educational path. Generally, there are three main types of culinary arts programs:

• Certificate/Diploma Programs: These programs are shorter in duration, typically ranging from a few months to a year. They offer focused training on specific culinary skills and are suitable for individuals looking for a quick entry into the culinary field.
• Associate Degrees: Associate degree programs in culinary arts usually take about two years to complete. These programs provide a more comprehensive education, covering various culinary techniques, kitchen management, and general education courses.
• Bachelor’s Degrees: Bachelor’s degree programs in culinary arts typically take about four years to complete. These programs offer an extensive and in-depth education in culinary arts, along with general education requirements.

Keep in mind that the actual time to complete a culinary arts degree may vary depending on factors such as the institution’s schedule, whether you study full-time or part-time, and any transferable credits you may have from previous education.

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Culinary Degree?

The cost of getting a culinary degree depends on a few factors, including the type of program, the institution you choose, and your location. Here’s an overview of the approximate costs for different types of culinary programs:

• Certificate/Diploma Programs: These programs are generally more affordable than associate or bachelor’s degree programs. The cost ranges between $17,550 and $47,000, depending on the program’s duration and the culinary school’s reputation.
• Associate Degrees: Associate degree programs in culinary arts may cost between $35,000 and $56,000. The cost will vary based on the school’s location, program duration, and additional fees.
• Bachelor’s Degrees: Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts can be more expensive, with costs ranging between $47,000 and $120,000. Prestigious culinary schools or universities may have higher tuition fees.

Keep in mind that the cost of culinary education is not limited to tuition fees alone. You should also consider the cost of living if you need to relocate for your culinary program and any additional expenses for books, culinary tools, uniforms, and other supplies.

Can I Become a Cook Through Online Education?

Yes, you can become a cook through online education, although it may have some limitations compared to traditional in-person culinary programs. Online culinary education has become increasingly popular, and there are various platforms and institutions that offer virtual cooking classes and culinary courses.

What are Some Web Resources to Learn Skills to Become a Better Cook?

The internet has made life easier in countless ways. With just a few clicks, we can now find answers to almost any question, learn new skills, and access a vast array of resources. Here are some web resources to help you improve as a cook.

• Serious Eats: This website offers in-depth articles, recipes, and cooking techniques backed by scientific explanations. It covers a wide range of cuisines and cooking styles.
• America’s Test Kitchen: Known for its thorough recipe testing and product reviews, America’s Test Kitchen provides detailed cooking tutorials and instructional videos.
• ChefSteps: This website offers comprehensive video courses on various culinary topics, including sous vide cooking, pastry arts, and advanced techniques.
• The Kitchn: The Kitchn is a popular cooking and home lifestyle website that offers recipes, cooking tips, and kitchen hacks.
• BBC Good Food: This website provides a vast collection of recipes, cooking tips, and culinary guides from various cuisines around the world.
• Food52: Food52 offers recipes, cooking advice, and a community-driven platform for sharing culinary experiences.
• Great British Chefs: This website features recipes and tips from some of the UK’s leading chefs, allowing you to explore British culinary excellence.

These specific web resources provide a wealth of information, instructional videos, and recipes to help you enhance your cooking skills and culinary knowledge. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these platforms offer valuable insights to elevate your culinary abilities.

Gain Experience

Cooking is a hands-on, sensory activity that goes beyond just following recipes. You need to really immerse yourself in it to master the craft. This is why it is important to gain a bit of experience through internships. Internships provide a unique opportunity to be immersed in the fast-paced and dynamic environment of a professional kitchen.

During internships, you learn from seasoned chefs who serve as mentors, guiding you through the intricacies of various cooking techniques, proper knife skills, and efficient kitchen organization. Their guidance helps you develop a deeper understanding of the culinary world that goes beyond what you can learn from a cookbook or online tutorial.

What Are Internship Opportunities for a Cook?

Internship opportunities for a cook can vary depending on the culinary field and the type of establishment. Here are some common internship opportunities for aspiring cooks:

• Restaurant Internships: Many restaurants, from fine-dining establishments to casual eateries, offer internships for aspiring cooks. During these internships, you will work in the kitchen, assist in food preparation, learn cooking techniques, and gain hands-on experience in a professional culinary setting.
• Hotel Culinary Internships: Hotels with restaurants often have culinary internships where you can work in various kitchen departments, such as the main kitchen, pastry kitchen, or banquet kitchen. These internships expose you to a wide range of culinary tasks and offer insights into large-scale food production.
• Catering Companies: Interning with a catering company provides experience in off-site food preparation and catering events. This opportunity allows you to learn about menu planning, event logistics, and working in dynamic settings.
• Bakery and Pastry Internships: For those interested in baking and pastry arts, internships in bakeries or pastry shops offer hands-on experience in baking techniques, pastry preparation, and cake decorating.
• Culinary Schools: Some culinary schools have internships as part of their curriculum, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning their degree or diploma.
• Farm-to-Table Internships: Interning at a farm-to-table restaurant or farm can give you insights into sourcing local, sustainable ingredients and connecting with the farm-to-table culinary philosophy.
• Culinary Apprenticeships: Apprenticeship programs, often offered by culinary organizations or industry associations, provide structured on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced chefs.
• Cruise Ships or Resorts: Culinary internships on cruise ships or at resorts allow you to work in diverse culinary settings, serve a wide range of cuisines, and cater to guests from around the world.

What Skills Will I Learn as a Cook?

As a cook, you will learn a diverse set of skills that are essential for success in the culinary world. These skills encompass both technical abilities in the kitchen and interpersonal traits crucial for thriving in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Here are some of the key skills you can expect to learn as a cook:

• Culinary Techniques: You will master a wide range of cooking techniques, such as chopping, sautéing, grilling, baking, braising, and more. Learning these foundational skills is crucial for preparing a variety of dishes.
• Knife Skills: Knife skills are fundamental for any cook. You will learn proper knife handling, various cutting techniques, and how to safely and efficiently work with different types of knives.
• Food Safety and Sanitation: You will acquire knowledge about food safety practices, including proper food handling, storage, and hygiene, to ensure the safety of both customers and fellow kitchen staff.
• Menu Planning: You will learn how to design and create menus, considering factors like seasonality, ingredient availability, and customer preferences.
• Time Management: Cooking in a professional kitchen demands excellent time management skills. You will learn how to coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously and maintain efficiency during busy service periods.
• Attention to Detail: The secrets of the best recipes are in the details. That is why precision and attention to detail are vital in cooking. You will learn to ensure accurate measurements, proper seasoning, and impeccable plating.
• Flavor Profiling: Understanding the intricacies of flavors, balancing tastes, and developing your palate are essential skills that elevate your dishes.
• Communication and Teamwork: Working in a kitchen requires teamwork and collaboration. You will learn to function as part of a cohesive team, communicating effectively and assisting and supporting each other to deliver high-quality dishes.
• Creativity: Cooking is an art, and as a cook, you will learn to express your creativity through dishes, experimenting with ingredients, and presentation.
• Customer Service: In some culinary roles, such as those in open kitchens or catering, you may have direct interactions with customers. You will learn customer service skills to ensure a positive dining experience.
• Organizational Skills: Keeping the kitchen organized and maintaining a clean work area are essential skills that contribute to an efficient and productive kitchen.

These skills collectively form a strong foundation for a successful culinary career. As you gain experience and expertise, you will continue to refine and enhance these skills, leading to growth and advancement in the culinary field.

Get Additional Certifications (Optional)

Obtaining additional certifications in the culinary field can be a valuable way to enhance your skills, showcase your expertise, and open doors to new career opportunities. Here are some examples of certifications you can pursue as a cook:

• ServSafe Food Handler Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a widely recognized credential that demonstrates your knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices. This certification is essential for anyone working in the foodservice industry, including cooks, to ensure safe food handling and minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
• Certified Culinarian (CC) – American Culinary Federation (ACF): The Certified Culinarian certification from the ACF is designed for entry-level culinary professionals. It validates your foundational culinary skills, including knife skills, cooking techniques, and safety procedures. This certification is an excellent starting point for cooks looking to establish their culinary credentials.
• Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) – American Culinary Federation (ACF): The Certified Pastry Culinarian certification is specific to pastry and baking professionals. It demonstrates your skills in creating and presenting a variety of desserts, bread, and pastry items.
• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) and Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP): The CDM certification demonstrates that the holder has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage foodservice operations in a variety of settings. On the other hand, the CFPP certification demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to protect food from contamination.