Read the whole recipe first

Check the full recipe before you start cooking. You might discover overnight rests, special equipment needs, or timing that changes your plans.

“Most cooking misadventures can be avoided altogether by simply knowing what is in store.”

Endpoints matter more than time

Follow the sensory cues in recipes, not just the clock. Beat eggs until pale and ribbony, sauté until golden, roast until caramelized. Times vary based on your equipment and technique.

“we'll always give cues for what the food should look, taste, smell, and even sound like, so your senses can lead the way.”

Use a kitchen scale

Volume measurements of flour and sugar can be off by up to 25 percent. A scale costs about 25 dollars and ensures consistent results, especially for baking.

“Measuring by volume means you can be over or under the intended amount by as much as 25%.”

Diamond Crystal is the standard

Bon Appétit uses Diamond Crystal kosher salt because its fine flakes dissolve quickly and grip your fingers for even seasoning. Morton kosher salt is denser, so use half the amount.

“Diamond Crystal kosher salt is the standard salt in the Bon Appétit Test Kitchen”

Salt conversions for different types

For a recipe calling for one teaspoon of Diamond Crystal, use roughly half a teaspoon of Morton kosher salt, or one-half teaspoon of fine sea salt or iodized salt.

Measured salt for big dishes

Recipes include specific salt amounts for dishes where eyeballing could go wrong, like casseroles, cookies, or anything hard to fix if undersalted.

Season to taste, always

Salt tolerance and flavor preferences are personal. Use measured amounts as a starting point, then taste and adjust to what tastes right to you.

“Learning to season food, growing comfortable with adding salt, and ultimately acid, spice, and sweetness, according to your own preferences, is what home cooking is all about.”

Recipes are blueprints, not instructions

You don't need to recreate the exact image to make something delicious. Recipes guide you, but your judgment and preferences matter.

“recipes are closer to blueprints than Lego instructions.”