10 Must-Watch Cooking Shows and Videos for Beginners

Welcome to the world of culinary arts if you're just starting out, there are a plethora of fantastic resources to help you learn and improve your cooking skills. From seasoned chefs like Jacques Pépin and Alton Brown to modern food shows like America's Test Kitchen, there's something for every beginner looking to refine their cooking prowess.

1. Jacques Pépin

Renowned chef Jacques Pépin has been a role model in the culinary world for decades. His approachable demeanor and wealth of cooking tips make him an excellent choice for beginners. You'll find plenty of videos on YouTube and other platforms where he shares valuable insights on basic cooking skills.

2. Good Eats with Alton Brown

Alton Brown's 'Good Eats' series is not only entertaining but also incredibly informative. Focusing on the science behind cooking, Alton explains the why behind each cooking method, making the subject both engaging and educational.

3. America's Test Kitchen and Cook's Country

Produced by the same team, these shows provide a lot of practical advice. You can catch them on PBS or subscribe to access a vast library of cooking tutorials and recipes. The shows delve into specific recipes and techniques, helping you understand why certain methods work (or don't).

4. Food Network Shows

For those with cable TV, the Food Network offers a range of exciting shows such as 'Good Eats', 'Re-Loaded', and 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives'. Alton Brown and Guy Fieri, in particular, provide a mix of entertainment and practical cooking tips. Guy Fieri's show is particularly useful for gaining insights into various regional cuisines and how food is prepared in different settings.

5. Martha Stewart's Cooking School

If you're looking for smaller details and precise techniques, Martha Stewart's show on PBS offers precise dishes and techniques. Her approach is all about the aesthetics and small details that make a meal look and taste extraordinary.

6. Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver's Ultimate Cookery Course

These two chefs have created some fantastic content, particularly the '15-Minute Meal' series. Both shows are available on YouTube and offer concise, easy-to-follow recipes that are perfect for beginners.

7. Travel Channel

The Travel Channel has its fair share of food shows, both local and international. These shows can inspire you with diverse cuisines and cooking styles from around the world.

8. Public Broadcasting Stations

Many local public broadcasting stations offer morning cooking shows. For instance, PBS often features shows like 'America's Test Kitchen', 'Martha Stewart's Cooking School', and various regional or international cooking shows. These programs are great for learning detailed techniques and regional cuisines.

Conclusion

Whether you're a complete novice or just picking up cooking for the first time, there's something for everyone in the world of cooking shows and videos. From the whimsical and educational 'Good Eats' to the exacting and detailed work of chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver, these resources can help you learn the skills you need to prepare delicious and impressive meals.

So, why not dive into the culinary world today? Start with Jacques Pépin, Alton Brown, or any of the other shows listed above, and take your cooking journey to the next level.