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Recipe Writing Basics

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Recipe Writing Basics

A community picnic needs a new, easy-to-follow recipe. Study the recipe, then plan and write your own recipe. Use New Zealand metric measures, clear steps and precise verbs.

Read like a recipe writer

Read the model recipe. Notice how its sections and sequence help a cook work safely and confidently.

Makes 8 bites | Preparation: 10 minutes | Baking: 15 minutes Ingredients • 1 apple • 1 cup rolled oats • ½ cup plain yoghurt • 2 tablespoons honey • ½ teaspoon cinnamon Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper. 2. Wash and grate the apple into a bowl. 3. Add the oats, yoghurt, honey and cinnamon. Stir until everything is combined. 4. Scoop eight small portions onto the tray and flatten each one gently. 5. Bake for 15 minutes, until the bites feel firm. Ask an adult to help remove the hot tray. Cool before serving.

1.Choose the three features that make the model recipe useful to a cook.

A clear ingredient list with amounts
Steps in the order they should happen
A detailed story about the writer
Cooking temperature and time
A surprise ending

2.Which action should happen immediately before the bites go into the oven?

Wash and grate the apple.
Scoop eight portions onto the tray and flatten them.
Cool the bites before serving.
Preheat the oven.

3.Find two action verbs in the method that tell the cook exactly what to do. Explain how one is more useful than a vague verb such as “do”.

4.Name two ingredients listed in the model recipe. Then name one item used in the method that is not listed as an ingredient.

5.The method says, “Bake for 15 minutes.” Add a different safety instruction that is not already included in the method and would help a young cook at this point.

6.Rewrite this unclear instruction so a cook knows what to do: “Put everything in and cook it until it’s ready.” Include a useful action verb and at least one specific detail.

Plan your picnic recipe

Invent a simple recipe suitable for sharing at a picnic. It could be a snack, drink or easy-to-serve dish. Choose a recipe you can describe clearly; you do not need to cook it.

7.Write a catchy recipe title and say what you are making. Keep the title specific enough to give the reader an idea of the dish.

8.List at least five ingredients for your recipe. Give each ingredient a sensible amount using a clear measure, such as grams, millilitres, cups, tablespoons or teaspoons.

9.Draft four to six numbered steps. Begin with any preparation needed, use clear action verbs, and include a time, temperature or safety note if your recipe needs one.

10.Reread your recipe. Write one change you made, or would make, to help someone follow it more easily. You might check the sequence, measurements, verbs or safety advice.