Eating is a necessity, but cooking is an art- Anonymous
Cooking is one of those activities which is necessary for a living. It is a skill many people love, and even if someone doesn't like to cook, they enjoy delicious meals at restaurants, hotels, family events and on many occasions. The Indian food culture is diverse, which is why more and more pupils are now considering culinary art as their field of interest. If you are also looking for the same, then you have come to the right place!
Learning how to cook might not be difficult, but being a perfectionist is. All you will need is a guide on the best chef courses. So, here are the best professional cooking courses you can consider to amp up your career possibility and make the most out of it!
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Difference Between A Chef & A Cook: Roles and Responsibilities
Chef: A chef is a highly skilled culinary professional who oversees all aspects of a kitchen. They create menus, develop recipes, manage staff, and ensure the quality of food. Chefs typically have extensive training and experience in various cooking techniques and cuisines.
Cook: A cook is responsible for preparing food according to established recipes. They follow instructions, cook dishes, and ensure proper presentation. Cooks may specialize in specific areas, such as grilling, baking, or pastry.
Degree To Pursue - Culinary Programs in India
There are several top cookery courses in India you can consider. These courses provide comprehensive culinary education and hands-on training to develop your cooking skills and knowledge.
Diploma in Culinary Arts
If you are a newbie, then a diploma would be the right choice for you. A diploma program in cooking focuses on providing a strong foundation in culinary skills and techniques. It covers a wide range of basic topics such as cooking skills, techniques, different operation areas, hospitality, etc. Institutes like the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) and the Culinary Academy of India offer reputable diploma courses in India. You can also check other hotel management institutes in your city.
Bachelor's Degree in Hotel Management and Catering Technology
Pursuing a bachelor's degree in hotel management with a specialisation in culinary arts or catering technology is an excellent choice for aspiring chefs. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical training in various aspects of the hospitality industry, including culinary skills, food production management, kitchen operations, and menu planning. Institutes like IHM, Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, and Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition (IHMCTAN) are known for their bachelor's degree programs.
Postgraduate Diploma in Culinary Arts
This course is designed for individuals who already have a culinary background and want to further enhance their skills and knowledge. It focuses on advanced culinary techniques, food styling, menu development, food entrepreneurship, and kitchen management. Institutes like the Culinary Academy of India and Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development offer reputed postgraduate diploma courses.
Certificate Courses in Baking and Pastry
If you have a specific interest in baking and pastry, consider enrolling in specialised certificate courses. These courses focus on the art and science of baking, pastry making, dessert preparation, and cake decoration. Institutes like Lavonne Academy of Baking Science and Pastry Arts and Academy of Pastry Arts India offer excellent certificate programs in baking and pastry.
Short-term Skill Development Programs
If you are looking for shorter-duration courses to develop specific culinary skills, consider short-term skill development programs. These programs focus on specific areas such as chocolate making, bread making, cake decoration, or regional cuisine. Several culinary institutes and academies across India offer such skill development courses.
Top Culinary Institutes in India [2024]
Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal
Renowned for its rigorous curriculum and industry connections, WGSHA offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in culinary arts, hospitality management, and more.
Culinary Academy of India (CAI), Hyderabad
CAI provides comprehensive culinary training through diploma and certificate programs, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Symbiosis Institute of Culinary Arts (SICA), Pune
SICA offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in culinary arts, food technology, and nutrition, with a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Pusa, New Delhi
A premier government institute, IHM Pusa offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in hospitality management, including specialization in food production.
Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD), New Delhi
OCLD provides world-class culinary training through diploma and certificate programs, with a strong emphasis on practical experience.
Admission Requirements For Culinary Institutes
Typical admission requirements for different culinary programs in India:
Bachelor of Catering Technology & Culinary Arts:
10+2 or equivalent qualification from a recognized board
Minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST candidates)
Qualifying entrance exam like NCHMCT JEE or institute-specific entrance test
Personal interview/group discussion
Diploma in Culinary Arts:
10+2 or equivalent qualification from a recognized board
Minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates)
Some institutes may conduct an aptitude test or interview
Certificate Course in Food Production:
10th standard pass or equivalentNo specific entrance exam, but some institutes may conduct an admission interview
Common Requirements Across Programs:
Age limit - usually 17-25 years
Medical fitness certificate
Submission of application form, academic documents, and entrance exam score (if applicable)
Payment of application and admission fees
The exact requirements may vary slightly between different institutes and universities offering these culinary programs in India.
Top Cooking Classes in India for Beginners
Who said that you have to spend hours in a kitchen or in a cooking class just to start your culinary journey? You don't. Not anymore. The Indian cooking evolution has reached a new high, with home cooks and professional chefs finally waking up to the relevance of culinary schools and online cooking courses. You don't even need to leave home anymore to learn to cook. You can experience live cooking right from the comfort of your own kitchen and embark on new food tryouts with your own family or in your restaurant.
Gordon Ramsay’s Masterclass
If you wish to learn from the best of the best, then you must subscribe to his show. He's considered a God in the world of culinary arts. And you don't want to miss out on his guidance and secret tips. Unlike his other shows and courses, this is specially designed for novice chefs. And don't get this wrong. Although this show is for beginners, you will also get to learn complex dishes like Beef Wellington. And even learn knife skills and other cooking techniques.
Wolfgang Puck's Masterclass
If you consider yourself creative when it comes to mixing up ingredients and recipes, then this course is for you. The course is designed across 16 classes and focuses on the step-by-step processes of cooking a particular dish. This helps you try the recipes and techniques easily at home.
Airbnb Experiences
Did you know that Airbnb offers much more than its unique vacation rentals? Not so popular, but the Airbnb experiences are carefully curated online shows that include unique cooking classes. You can learn about the different cuisines across the world and even learn a few tips about the most famous cocktails from its next-level cocktail classes.
Discover amazing cooking classes with a private tutor on Superprof today!
Cooking Tips by Popular Chefs in India
It is important to learn from the cooking experts in the country. Needless to say, there are many chefs popular for their remarkable expertise in the field of cooking. For instance, the name Sanjeev Kapoor has transformed into a brand now, and millions of people follow his instructions via YouTube. Since learning is a never-ending process, here are the top recommendations you can follow to learn tips and tricks for cooking.
Sanjeev Kapoor
Chef Sanjeev Kapoor emphasises the importance of using fresh ingredients to enhance the flavours of your dishes and also speaks about the dish's history. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices can make a significant difference in the final outcome. Another piece of advice shared by him is to keep things simple. Focus on highlighting the natural flavours of the ingredients rather than overwhelming the dish with too many spices or seasonings.
Vikas Khanna
Chef Vikas Khanna suggests practising mise en place, which means organising and preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking. This ensures a smoother cooking process and allows you to focus on the cooking techniques without any distractions. He also encourages aspiring chefs to explore the vast array of spices available in India. Experimenting with different spice combinations can add depth and complexity to your dishes.
Ranveer Brar
Chef Ranveer Brar believes that mastering the technique of tempering (tadka) can elevate the flavours of your Indian dishes. Understanding the timing and sequence of adding spices to hot oil or ghee can enhance the aroma and taste of the final dish. He also explained the importance of using local and seasonal produce. Not only does it support local farmers and businesses, but it also ensures that you are cooking with the freshest ingredients at their peak flavour.
Shipra Khanna
Chef Shipra Khanna believes that presentation plays a crucial role in creating a memorable dining experience. Pay attention to the visual appeal of your dishes by using artistic plating techniques and garnishes.
According to Chef Khanna, cooking is an art, and it is important to trust your instincts and experiment with flavours. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new combinations to create unique and innovative dishes.
Manish Mehrotra
Chef Manish Mehrotra advises aspiring chefs to focus on achieving a balance of flavours in their dishes. Balancing sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements can create a harmonious taste profile. He is known for his innovative fusion dishes and encourages chefs to explore the combination of different cuisines and techniques to create exciting and unexpected flavours.
How to Become a Chef in India?
So, how to become a chef? Becoming a chef is an exciting and fulfilling career choice, especially in a culturally diverse and culinary-rich country like India. If you have a passion for food, creativity, and a desire to create delightful culinary experiences, pursuing a career as a chef can open up a world of opportunities. Here is how you can become a chef in India:
Develop a Passion for Food and Cooking
Needless to say, you are here only because you have a passion for learning culinary art. Even if you only want to pursue it as a career, the first and most crucial step is cultivating a genuine passion for food and cooking. You can experiment with different ingredients, cuisines, and cooking techniques or read cookbooks, watch cooking shows, and try new recipes. This will help you build a solid foundation and understand India's flavours, textures and culinary principles.
Pursue Formal Education
While it is possible to learn cooking skills through self-study and practical experience, obtaining formal culinary education provides a strong foundation for you to grow. There are many institutes in India offering various courses and programs in different levels of expertise. These cover essential culinary techniques, food safety and hygiene, menu planning, nutrition and more. However, you must look for institutes with experienced faculty, well-equipped kitchens and a good reputation in the industry.
Some renowned culinary schools in India include the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), the Culinary Academy of India, and Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development.
Gain Experience
To become a skilled chef, practical experience is crucial. You must seek opportunities to work in professional kitchens, hotels, restaurants, catering services, etc. Internships are another gateway to gaining hands-on experience under experienced chefs' guidance. This will not only expose you to real-world kitchen environments but also teach you time management skills and develop your culinary expertise.
Specialise in a Culinary Niche
In India, the culinary landscape is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of regional cuisines and speciality dishes. Consider specialising in a particular culinary niche to set yourself apart from the competition. However, this doesn’t mean you leave other regions entirely. It could be Indian regional cuisine, bakery and pastry, international cuisines, or even niche areas like vegan or gluten-free cooking, in addition to your basic skill. This specialisation will give you a unique selling point and open doors to niche job opportunities.
Learn Continuously
There are many workshops, seminars and culinary events taking rounds in your city or town. Know the dates and venues. Drop by to expand your knowledge and network with industry professionals.
Stay Updated With The Cooking Industry
Needless to say, the culinary world is a dynamic and constantly evolving industry. It is crucial to stay updated with the latest trends, techniques and innovations in the industry. Keep experimenting with new ingredients, flavours and presentation styles to enhance your culinary repertoire.
Build Your Network
While you learn, keep making new contacts every day. Networking plays a vital role in any career, so don’t shy away from asking the experts to teach you certain skills. You can attend culinary competitions, food festivals and industry events to connect with chefs, restaurant owners and other industry professionals. Additionally, you can also join culinary associations and organisations like the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) or the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) to network with like-minded individuals and stay updated with industry news.
Can I learn How to Cook Online?
With Superprof, you can now learn convenient and effective ways to acquire culinary skills from the comfort of your own home. Superprof is an online platform that connects learners with qualified tutors and instructors across various subjects, including cooking. It offers a diverse selection of experienced cooking tutors who specialize in different cuisines, techniques and skill levels. With Superprof, you can schedule cooking lessons at a time that suits you and your tutor. This flexibility allows you to learn at your own pace and fit the lessons into your busy schedule.
Learn everything you need to know about cooking with cooking classes on Superprof!
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