How to make cooking stress-free: everything you need to know about mise en place

If simultaneously prepping ingredients and following a recipe has you feeling stressed about cooking, this post is for you. Read on to find out what mis en place is, and how it can help quiet your frustration in the kitchen, and set you up to enjoy the entire cooking process from start to finish. 

What is mis en place? 

Mise en place is a French culinary term that means “setting in place.” It describes the process of gathering and preparing all of your ingredients, tools and equipment, before you start cooking. 

Why is it important? 

There are a few reasons, the main one being that it allows you to avoid frantically prepping while in the act of cooking, saving you time in the process. Prepping everything in advance streamlines the cooking experience for you physically and mentally.

 By incorporating this critical step in your cooking practice you are not only building good habits, but you are allowing yourself to focus solely on the task at hand: preparing your meal. This is especially helpful when you have time sensitive dishes, or are cooking multiple dishes at one time. 

How do I learn how to incorporate this into my daily cooking practice?

Get started by taking our popular "Mis en Place & Storing" exercise (free with your Swich membership). It details everything you need to start making mise en place part of your regular cooking routine. 

But don't just take our word for it. Be sure to check out what the Swich community has to say about mis en place. We know you’ll be inspired!

What do I need to help get me started with my mis en place?

While setting up your mise en place does require some supplies, you don't need to break the bank. We recommend you start with:

• small bowls for your prepped ingredients
• small pinch bowls for your spices and seasonings
• measuring cups and spoons
• storage containers (freezer bags, mason jars, Tupperware containers etc.)

Take the exercise: Mis en Place & Storing