Cooking or cookery is the art, technology, science and craft of preparing food for consumption. Cooking techniques and ingredients vary widely across the world, from grilling food over an open fire to using electric stoves, to baking in various types of ovens, reflecting unique environmental, economic, and cultural traditions and trends. Types of cooking also depend on the skill levels and training of cooks. Cooking is done both by people in their own dwellings and by professional cooks and chefs in restaurants and other food establishments. Cooking can also occur through chemical reactions without the presence of heat, such as in ceviche, a traditional South American dish where fish is cooked with the acids in lemon or lime juice.
Preparing food with heat or fire is an activity unique to humans. It may have started around 2 million years ago, though archaeological evidence for it reaches no more than 1 million years ago.[1]
The expansion of agriculture, commerce, trade, and transportation between civilizations in different regions offered cooks many new ingredients. New inventions and technologies, such as the invention of pottery for holding and boiling water, expanded cooking techniques. Some modern cooks apply advanced scientific techniques to food preparation to further enhance the flavor of the dish served
The cook will prepare meals and follow establishment recipes. Duties include preparing ingredients, adhering to the restaurant menu, and following food health and safety procedures. Cook, clean, assist other cooks and staff and deliver food in a fast-paced environment. Work may include operating a grill, oven, or fryer. Previous experience in a team environment and various cooking methods preferred.
Setting up, cleaning, and organizing work stations
Preparing ingredients for the shift; washing vegetables, chopping, seasoning meat, etc.
Preparing oven, utensils, and grill for shift
Taking orders from wait staff or computerized system
Cooking order according to food health and safety standards
Recommending ideas for specials or seasonal dishes
Handling multiple food orders at one time
Monitoring multiple food orders as new orders arrive
Dressing order for presentation
Ensuring each guest order has the correct food and sides
Delivering food order to wait staff in a timely manner
Storing all food properly
Sanitizing and cleaning work stations and utensils
Reordering stock and food supplies
Monitoring other cooks and team members
Assisting other cooks in preparing food or helping other team members when needed
Able to work in a fast-paced environment
Able to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently
Physical endurance to stand for an entire shift
Self-motivated and self-directed
Works well as part of a team and on individual tasks
Able to quickly memorize complex or multiple orders
High school degree or equivalent
Previous experience as a busboy, washer, waiter, cook, or relevant work experience
Legally able to work in establishment
