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
This story is from the April 2024 edition of Men's Fitness UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 2024 edition of Men's Fitness UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
DOUBLE TROUBLE
Get race-ready with this two-part session from HYROX master trainer and Represent 247 athlete
NEED-TO-KNOW NUTRITION
From sugar intake to gluten intolerance, performance nutritionist Dr Laurent Bannock gives the no-nonsense answers to your food-related questions
"I DON'T GO CHASING PBS AT MY AGE-THERE'S NO POINT"
England and Harlequins legend Danny Care talks rugby fitness, the power of positivity, and the one session he never wants to do again
FILL YOUR BOOTS
Hyperice's Normatec Lower Legs offer instant relief for sore calves. But with an RRP over £400, are they worth the punt?
BUILT TO LAST
If you're looking for a military-grade bag that can withstand some rough treatment, the KNKG Everyday Tactical Backpack is worth its weight in dynamic durability
FINGER ON THE PULSE
Pulseroll's premium massage gun is a smooth operator but does it do enough to sway Theragun fans?
TAKE YOUR TIME
Maximise muscle gains by leveraging the concept of time under tension
WALK & TALK
A new wave of outdoor therapy services are transforming how we look after, and discuss, our mental health. Joe Minihane heads to the Peak District to find out more
Beach Body BLUEPRINT
Thought you'd blown your chance to shore up your physique before summer? Think again. We've got a clever plan to help you get fitter and leaner in no time
20 WAYS TO BURN BELLY FAT
Ignite fat loss and maintain your newly sculpted physique with these expert strategies for lasting effects