Everything I learned.....

I'm sure that many of you are aware of the poem, "Everything I know I learned in Kindergarten" well this applies to the kitchen as well. Everything I learned I learned in Chef Tom's kitchen. Sure, I've had many teachers since I started culinary school, and I learned many things from my Grammy and Mom. But the real depth of my knowledge has been learned from Chef Tom this semester. I have learned many things in Advanced Cookery, but I have learned the most while I spent my Tuesday and Thursday afternoons with him. In class we have a few of what I like to refer to as Chef Tom ism's:

Question: How long do I cook this for?

Answer: Until it's done!

Question: How do I cut the asparagus?

Answer: With a knife??

Question: Where is ______(insert any item)?

Answer: If you were Todd.........

Question from Chef Tom: Did you season it?

Answer: There is no other answer but YES!

I have learned the necessity of a prep list, mise en place, and just simply making sure that the walk-in is orderly.