Behind the Scenes: The Hidden Secrets of Cooking Shows

Have you ever watched a cooking show on TV and wondered what goes on behind the scenes? If so, you're not alone. There are many secrets and tricks that are kept hidden from the audience to maintain the illusion of authenticity. In this article, we will uncover three lesser-known things that happen on cooking shows like the ones on Food Network and My Kitchen Rules.

1. The Real Culinary Expert

When you watch a cooking show, you might think the host is the only person in the kitchen, but you'd be wrong. Behind the scenes, there is often a dedicated team of culinary professionals that do most of the actual food prep. The host's main job is to narrate and guide the viewers, but the real work is done by a team of chefs and kitchen staff. This team ensures that everything goes smoothly and that the dishes turn out perfectly. In fact, the finished dishes are sometimes pre-made to prevent any issues that might arise from the host's lack of speed or skill.

2. Efficient Kitchen Setup

If you have ever watched a cooking show, you might have noticed that there are often multiple cooking appliances and stages for dishes. This is not a waste of space but rather a clever setup to ensure that the show runs smoothly. For example, you might see three skillets on the stove top or two slow cookers on set. This is done to streamline the cooking process and to keep the show moving at a fast pace. It helps to have multiple dishes prepared at different stages so that the host can quickly switch to the next task without any delays.

3. Extensive Practice and Preparation

In a recent cooking show on Australian TV, My Kitchen Rules, one of the finalist teams had to practice their recipes extensively. They spent over 30,000 Australian dollars on hiring a professional chef to help them perfect their dishes. This is not uncommon in the industry, as professional chefs often spend significant time and money ensuring that their dishes meet the high standards required for a cooking show. The goal is to produce the best possible meal every time, and this includes thorough preparation and practice.

4. Relatability and Authenticity

Another hidden secret of cooking shows is the need for relatability. Hosts often want to appear more human and relatable to their audience. They want to show that it’s okay if things don't go exactly as planned. Swearing, crying, or even drinking during a cooking show can add a more authentic and relatable touch to the episode. These moments make the show more engaging and show the viewers that everyone has struggles and challenges in the kitchen.

5. Swearing, Crying, and Food Styling

Did you know that swearing, crying, and food styling can all contribute to the success of a cooking show? As mentioned earlier, these moments can add a layer of authenticity and relatability. If a host is swearing or crying while attempting a recipe, it can convey an honest experience of the challenges involved. Food styling, on the other hand, is crucial for making dishes look appetizing on camera. Professional food stylists work closely with the chefs to ensure that every dish is presented in the most visually appealing way possible.

In conclusion, while cooking shows often present an illusion of seamless perfection, there is a lot of work, preparation, and hidden secrets that go on behind the scenes. From the dedicated teams of culinary professionals to the extensive practice and setup, these shows are meticulously crafted to provide a high-quality viewing experience. Understanding the secrets and tricks can give you a new appreciation for the effort and skill that goes into each episode.