If you think that you want to attend a culinary academy in Malaysia just because you love cooking, or you want to be the next Bourdain, think again. Culinary school is not easy, contrary to what many people may think or believe. It takes hard work, determination and sheer mental fortitude to push through.
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A whole new language
From brunoise to duxelles, from Hors d’Oeuvers to papillote, you might sometimes wonder if you are learning about food or the French Revolution. Learning French cuisine is a pilgrimage for all aspiring chefs. You need to pick up the terminology fast as well, which brings us to the next point.
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It’s very fast-paced
You snooze and you lose in culinary school. A real-life kitchen is very fast-paced and your classroom is going to simulate the high intensity and pressure. Instructors and lecturers all expect you to perform to your full capacity. You will have to adapt quickly and obey instructions quickly, all while juggling between several other tasks. Through culinary arts schools, you will learn how to multitask efficiently, such as blanching summer vegetables while perfectly searing a fillet mignon.
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You will get hurt
What happens when you combine fast pace, loud noises, boiling water, hot stove and sharp objects? Getting yourself cut, burned and scalded is not even a possibility, it’s an eventuality. Just like a medal of honor, you will have to earn your battle scars along the way. Throughout your journey in culinary school, you will learn to treat your cuts and burns. Most restaurants will expect that you keep on working after putting on a bandage or some burn gel.
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All you think about is cooking
Slowly but surely, your mind becomes occupied with everything related to cooking. Even while lying in bed at night, you may start to think about whether pairing steak with Sauvignon Blanc or Muscat is better. You start using kitchen terminology in your daily conversations and discuss new recipes with others. Not that it’s a bad thing, but slowly, cooking will be at the centre of your life.
Final words
Taking a culinary cooking course in Malaysia is not as easy as it sounds. However, it is a great way to get you introduced into the culinary world. Do not let the above dissuade you from pursuing a career in the culinary industry. At the end of the day, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the satisfied smiles of diners that enjoyed your food.
