Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria

About the Role

Cooks in institutions and cafeterias prepare and serve meals for large groups of people in various settings.

Other Common Titles

  • Institutional Cook
  • Cafeteria Cook
  • Food Service Worker
  • Catering Cook
  • Hospital Cook
  • School Cook

Typical Tasks

  • Prepare and cook a variety of food items according to established recipes and menus.
  • Ensure meals are nutritious and comply with dietary restrictions.
  • Manage kitchen inventory and order supplies as needed.
  • Maintain a clean and safe cooking environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
  • Supervise and train kitchen staff or aides.
  • Portion and serve food to customers in cafeteria settings.
  • Conduct regular checks on food items and equipment to ensure quality and safety.

Notable People

  • Alice Waters Renowned chef and food activist known for her role in the farm-to-table movement, advocating for local and healthy foods in dining institutions.
  • Paul Prudhomme Famed chef who popularized Cajun cuisine, influencing institutional menus across the United States.

Recommended Resources

  • The Professional Chef

    A comprehensive guide for chefs that covers techniques, recipes, and culinary fundamentals.

  • Culinary Institute of America

    Offers educational resources, courses, and information on culinary arts and institutional cooking.

  • Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)

    Provides important information on food safety regulations and practices for food service professionals.

  • The Flavor Bible

    A resource to understand flavor pairings and enhance culinary creativity in menu planning.

  • Cooks Illustrated

    Offers recipes, cooking techniques, and reviews of kitchen equipment.