COOK UP A STORM

Unlock your inner chef with advice from some of the world's foremost food experts

- Vipin Chimrani

Most men know you 'can't outrun a bad diet'. And most men know 'abs are made in the kitchen'. But knowledge is one thing; putting it into action is another. And the simple fact is that most men fare far worse in the kitchen than they do in the gym.

Culinary expertise isn't about memorising recipes, though. It's about learning the skills and tricks that make cooking both enjoyable and rewarding. Get better at it and both health and happiness will skyrocket. As chef Dr Mike puts it, to achieve the endpoint of improved health "basic cookery becomes a survival skill".

So, we asked some of our favourite chefs and food experts to rustle up some quick tips that can help the average kitchen-shy fitness enthusiast evolve away from boiled broccoli and dry chicken, into a world of bigger flavours and better results.

1. USE THE LEMON LAW

“When chopping chillies,” says The Gorgeous Kitchen’s Jo Pratt, “rub a little cooking oil into your hands before you start. The oil creates a barrier so the chilli doesn’t get into your skin. Then, once you’ve chopped the chillies, rub some fresh lemon juice into your hands – the acid neutralises the chilli, removing it from your hands more effectively than soap and water.”

2. SLOW DOWN

“Cook onions slowly to draw out their natural sweetness,” says The Shed’s Oliver Gladwin. “Once they’ve browned in the pan, turn down the heat and stir frequently for 20-30 minutes – you won’t need sugar.”

3. THAT’S SHALLOT