Chef Ben Says

#1 

Flowery fluff you see on the food network and in fancy restaurants is fine, but the basics are what define a good cook. 

#2

Learning to know when your food is done is the single most powerful tool in a cook's arsenal.

#3

Expecting to become a great cook without practicing is like a recreational electrician. You might be able to get it done, but I'd rather you didn't do it in my house.