As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered numerous questions that frequently pop up in the IELTS Speaking test. One such question is, “What was the last meal you cooked?”. While seemingly simple, this question can throw many candidates off guard. This article will delve into why this question is asked, how to structure your answer, and provide tips to help you ace this part of your IELTS Speaking test.

Understanding the Intent Behind the Question

The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. The examiners are not necessarily interested in your culinary skills. Instead, they are evaluating your ability to:

• Fluency and Coherence: Can you speak smoothly and logically connect your ideas?
• Lexical Resource: Do you possess a wide range of vocabulary related to cooking and food?
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Can you use a variety of grammatical structures correctly?
• Pronunciation: Can you be easily understood by native speakers?

Crafting Your Answer

When answering the question, “What was the last meal you cooked?”, aim to provide a comprehensive and engaging response. Here’s a possible structure:

1. Briefly Introduce the Meal

Start by mentioning what the meal was. For example:

• “The last meal I cooked was spaghetti bolognese, which is a classic Italian dish.”
• “Just yesterday, I made a simple but delicious chicken stir-fry.”

2. Describe the Cooking Process

Talk about the steps involved in preparing the meal. Use descriptive language and sensory details to make your answer more vivid. For instance:

• “I started by finely chopping some onions, garlic, and carrots. Then, I browned the minced beef in a pan until it was nicely caramelized.”
• “I marinated the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Afterwards, I stir-fried the chicken with colorful bell peppers and onions.”

3. Share Your Experience

Mention if you enjoyed cooking the meal or if there were any challenges you faced. Did you learn anything new? Were there any interesting incidents during the cooking process? For example:

• “I find cooking quite therapeutic, so I really enjoyed the whole process of making spaghetti bolognese. It’s also a dish that always reminds me of my family.”
• “Although I usually follow recipes, I decided to experiment a bit with the stir-fry sauce this time. It turned out surprisingly well!”

4. Conclude with a Related Thought

End your answer by connecting it to a broader context. You could mention:

• “I’m trying to eat healthier, so I’ve been experimenting with more vegetable-based dishes.”
• “Cooking for loved ones brings me immense joy, and I cherish the opportunity to share a meal with them.”

Vegetarian Lasagna

Example Answer

“The last meal I cooked was a vegetarian lasagna. I’ve been trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet, and lasagna is a dish that lends itself well to vegetarian variations. I started by sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms, then added lentils and chopped tomatoes for a hearty base. Instead of traditional lasagna sheets, I used thinly sliced zucchini, which added a lovely fresh flavor. Layering the ingredients and baking the lasagna until golden brown was definitely the most satisfying part. Although it took a bit longer to prepare than usual, I found the entire process quite enjoyable. It’s rewarding to know that I can still enjoy my favorite dishes while making healthier choices.”

Tips for Success

• Practice Regularly: Familiarize yourself with common IELTS Speaking topics and practice answering them fluently and accurately.
• Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn a range of vocabulary related to food, cooking methods, and flavors.
• Use Linking Words: Utilize a variety of linking words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a coherent response.
• Be Enthusiastic: Speak with enthusiasm and passion, even if the topic seems mundane. Your tone of voice can greatly enhance your answer.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to relax, be yourself, and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in English. With thorough preparation and practice, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired score!