Chef Amar Inspires 12th Standard Students with Life Skills Workshop.

W.H. Smith Memorial School recently hosted an enriching cooking workshop for the 12th standard students, led by esteemed Chef Amar, an alumnus of the school. The workshop, organized under the guidance of Principal Dr. Anita Pauline Sodhi Dey, aimed to equip students with essential life skills through the art of cooking. The session was a resounding success, leaving students inspired and eager to apply their newfound knowledge.

Cooking Basics and Healthy Eating

Chef Amar kicked off the workshop by emphasizing the importance of basic cooking skills, particularly for students planning to move out for further studies. He demonstrated how to prepare simple, nutritious meals that are both budget-friendly and easy to make. “Knowing how to cook basic, healthy meals ensures you can maintain a balanced diet without relying on processed or fast food,” Chef Amar noted. Students were keen to learn these skills, understanding the significant impact on their future health and well-being.

Identification of Ingredients

Understanding ingredients is crucial for any aspiring cook. Chef Amar introduced the students to various common ingredients, explaining their nutritional benefits and culinary uses. This segment was particularly eye-opening, as students learned to identify and appreciate the quality of the ingredients they use in their cooking. This knowledge will empower them to make better food choices and experiment with new recipes.

Chopping and Cutting Techniques

Proper chopping and cutting techniques are fundamental to efficient and safe cooking. Chef Amar demonstrated various cutting styles and provided tips on how to handle knives safely. The hands-on practice session allowed students to try these techniques themselves, boosting their confidence in the kitchen. “Mastering these techniques not only makes cooking more enjoyable but also ensures safety,” Chef Amar emphasized.

Food Hygiene

Maintaining food hygiene is critical to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure that meals are safe to eat. Chef Amar discussed best practices for kitchen cleanliness, proper storage, and food handling. This segment underscored the importance of hygiene in everyday cooking, providing students with guidelines that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Promoting the Chef Profession

In addition to practical cooking skills, Chef Amar shared insights into the chef profession, highlighting the creativity, innovation, and passion required in the culinary world. He spoke about the rewarding aspects of being a professional chef and encouraged students to consider cooking as a viable and fulfilling career path. This inspired several students to think about their future career options in a new light.

Student Reactions

The response from the students was overwhelmingly positive. They expressed gratitude for the practical advice and hands-on experience provided by Chef Amar. Many students found the workshop engaging and valuable, realizing the importance of cooking skills for their independence and health. The emphasis on food hygiene and ingredient identification particularly resonated with them, as they understood how these elements contribute to their overall well-being.

One student remarked, “This workshop has taught us more than just cooking. It’s about organizing, budgeting, shopping, and managing our daily lives.” Another student added, “Knowing what we are eating and cooking gives us control over our health. It’s a life skill everyone should know.”

As an ex-student of W.H. Smith Memorial School, Chef Amar’s return to share his expertise was a special moment. His passion for cooking and dedication to teaching life skills left a lasting impact on the students, making the workshop a memorable and transformative experience.

In conclusion, the cooking workshop by Chef Amar was a significant step in preparing 12th standard students for their future. It provided them with practical skills, knowledge, and inspiration that will serve them well in their personal and professional lives. The success of this workshop highlights the importance of integrating life skills education into the school curriculum, ensuring that students are well-equipped for all aspects of life.

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