Mary Berry, the beloved former host of The Great British Bake Off and author of over 70 cookbooks, has revealed an expert tip for preparing vegetables quickly and efficiently. As she launches her new BBC Two series, Mary Berry’s Quick Cooking Mondays, she’s focused on simplifying kitchen routines — starting with the crucial step of chopping vegetables.
Vegetable preparation can often be the most time-consuming part of cooking. However, Mary emphasizes that the secret lies in slicing vegetables thinly and evenly. This approach not only speeds up cooking times but also helps retain more nutrients, making your meals healthier and more vibrant.
Without a specialized vegetable chopper, a sharp knife and cutting board are your best tools. Consistent, thin slices ensure vegetables cook quickly and evenly. Mary even sometimes skips cooking certain vegetables altogether, letting their natural freshness shine through.
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Some vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, baby potatoes, baby carrots, lettuce, and Brussels sprouts, can often be added directly to your pan without pre-slicing, depending on the dish you’re preparing. Another helpful tip from culinary experts is to use a wide pan. A larger cooking surface allows heat to distribute more evenly, cutting down your overall cooking time.
By following these simple techniques, both novice and experienced cooks can prepare delicious, nutrient-rich vegetable dishes faster and with less hassle. With Mary Berry’s guidance, your time in the kitchen will be more enjoyable and efficient every day.