Writing a recipe isn’t just about listing ingredients; it’s about guiding someone through the cooking process with clarity. Here are 10 essential tips for writing recipes from FamilyCookbookProject.com that are easy to follow and original:
1. Use Clear, Precise Language
Keep your instructions simple and straightforward. Avoid technical jargon unless it’s essential, and always explain any unusual techniques.
2. List Ingredients in Order
Ensure the ingredients appear in the order they’re used in the recipe. This helps readers follow along easily without confusion.
3. Be Specific with Measurements
Instead of vague amounts, be as specific as possible. Use measurements like “1 cup” or “2 tablespoons” rather than “some” or “a pinch.”
4. Break Steps Into Manageable Parts
Each step in the recipe should have one clear action. This makes the instructions easier to follow and prevents mistakes.
5. Include Cooking Times
Provide approximate times for each stage, from prep to cook time. This helps cooks plan their time and know when the dish is finished.
6. Offer Temperature Guidelines
Whether it’s the oven or stovetop, always indicate the appropriate temperature to cook at.
7. Explain Special Techniques
If your recipe includes a technique that isn’t common knowledge, explain how to do it. For example, if it involves folding batter or blanching vegetables, provide details.
8. Add Serving Suggestions
Let your readers know how to serve the dish. Should it be eaten hot or cold? Does it pair well with a certain side?
9. Include Variations and Substitutes
Suggest alternative ingredients or methods for those with dietary restrictions or different tastes.
10. Test Your Recipe
Always make sure your recipe works by testing it yourself. This ensures your readers will have a positive cooking experience and achieve the desired results.
With these tips, your recipes will be clear, original, and enjoyable for any home cook to follow.
Bill Rice is Founder and Co-Publisher of the Family Cookbook Project, the leading online cookbook publisher with a website that helps families and individuals collect, preserve and share food memories by creating their own printed custom cookbooks. He is the author of The Wellfleet Oyster Cookbook and the Cape Cod Cocktail Cookbook (Available on Amazon), both created using FamilyCookbookProject.com. He is also editor of the Donovan Family Cookbook, now it’s third printing and is an avid genealogist tracing his family back to the 1600’s.
Follow Family Cookbook Project on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter TikTok, You