Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Food You Want to Learn to Cook

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about food and cooking, making it essential for test-takers to be prepared to discuss culinary topics. One common theme that frequently appears is describing a food you want to learn how to cook. This article will provide valuable insights and sample answers to help you excel in this aspect of the IELTS Speaking exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner may ask you general questions about food and cooking. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy cooking?
2. What’s your favorite dish to cook?
3. How often do you cook at home?
4. Do you prefer home-cooked meals or eating out?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the question: “Do you enjoy cooking?”

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I absolutely adore cooking. It’s not just about preparing meals; it’s a form of creative expression for me. I find it incredibly therapeutic to experiment with different ingredients and concoct new flavors. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about serving a dish I’ve made from scratch to my family and friends.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In Part 2, you may receive a cue card related to describing a food you want to learn how to cook. Here’s a sample cue card:

Describe A Food You Want To Learn How To Cook
You should say:

• What the food is
• Why you want to learn to cook it
• How difficult you think it will be to cook
• And explain how you plan to learn to cook it

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate art of making sushi, and it’s definitely a dish I’m eager to master. Sushi is a traditional Japanese delicacy that combines vinegared rice with various ingredients, typically raw fish, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits.

The reason I’m so keen on learning to make sushi is multifaceted. Firstly, I’m captivated by the precision and skill required to create these beautiful, bite-sized pieces of art. The meticulous attention to detail in preparing the rice, slicing the fish, and assembling the rolls is something I find incredibly appealing. Moreover, sushi is not only visually stunning but also a healthier alternative to many other dishes, which aligns perfectly with my goal of maintaining a balanced diet.

I anticipate that mastering sushi-making will be quite challenging. The technique for preparing the rice alone requires practice to achieve the right consistency and flavor. Then there’s the art of knife skills needed for slicing the fish and other ingredients with precision. Not to mention the dexterity required to roll the sushi tightly and evenly. It’s a culinary skill that I believe will take considerable time and patience to perfect.

To learn this culinary art, I plan to take a systematic approach. I’ll start by watching online tutorials and reading recipes to familiarize myself with the basics. Then, I intend to enroll in a hands-on sushi-making class where I can learn directly from an experienced chef. After that, it’ll be a matter of practice, practice, practice. I’ll probably invite friends over for sushi nights, where I can hone my skills while getting honest feedback. It’s going to be a journey, but I’m excited about the prospect of creating my own delicious sushi rolls in the near future.”

Hands-on sushi making class experience

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I really want to learn how to cook pasta from scratch. It’s an Italian dish that I love eating in restaurants, but I’ve never tried making it myself. I want to learn because I think homemade pasta tastes better than store-bought, and it would be nice to make it for my family.

I think it might be quite difficult to make pasta. You need to mix the dough right and then roll it out very thin. I’ve seen people use special machines to cut the pasta into shapes, which looks tricky.

To learn how to make pasta, I’m planning to watch some YouTube videos first. Then, I might ask my friend who knows how to make it to teach me. I’ll probably need to practice a lot before I get good at it, but I’m looking forward to trying.”

Follow-up Questions:

1. What challenges do you think you’ll face when learning to cook this dish?
2. How do you think cooking skills can benefit a person’s life?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9) for Question 1:

“When it comes to learning sushi-making, I anticipate several significant challenges. Firstly, achieving the perfect rice consistency is crucial and requires a delicate balance of vinegar, sugar, and salt, not to mention the right cooking technique. Secondly, mastering the knife skills for precise fish cutting is essential, as the thickness and angle of each slice can greatly affect the taste and texture of the sushi. Additionally, developing the dexterity to form tight, uniform rolls without overfilling or breaking them will undoubtedly take considerable practice. Lastly, I think one of the most formidable challenges will be sourcing high-quality, sushi-grade fish, which is paramount for both safety and flavor. Overcoming these hurdles will require patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn from my inevitable mistakes.”

Sample Answer (Band 6-7) for Question 2:

“I think cooking skills can really help people in their daily lives. First, it’s healthier because you know exactly what ingredients you’re using. It’s also cheaper than eating out all the time. Cooking can be a fun hobby too, and it’s a great way to impress friends and family. Plus, if you’re good at cooking, you might even be able to use it in your job someday, like becoming a chef or starting a food business.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions:

1. How have eating habits changed in your country over the past few decades?
2. Do you think traditional cooking methods are being lost? Why or why not?
3. What role does food play in cultural identity?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9) for Question 1:

“The transformation of eating habits in my country over the past few decades has been nothing short of revolutionary. There’s been a marked shift towards convenience foods and international cuisines, largely driven by globalization and the fast-paced nature of modern life. We’ve seen a significant uptick in the consumption of processed foods and takeaways, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s expanded our culinary horizons and saved time for busy professionals. On the other, it’s led to concerns about declining nutritional value and the loss of traditional cooking skills.

Interestingly, there’s also been a countercurrent to this trend. In recent years, there’s been a resurgence of interest in organic, locally-sourced produce and traditional cooking methods. This seems to be driven by growing health consciousness and a desire to reconnect with our culinary roots. Additionally, dietary trends like vegetarianism and veganism have gained substantial traction, reflecting changing attitudes towards animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

Another notable shift has been in dining out culture. Eating at restaurants has become more commonplace, evolving from a special occasion activity to a regular social event. This has led to a burgeoning restaurant scene, with a diverse array of cuisines available in urban areas.

Overall, while our eating habits have certainly become more diverse and convenience-oriented, there’s also a growing awareness of the importance of balanced, nutritious meals and the cultural significance of food. It’s a complex picture that reflects broader societal changes in lifestyle, values, and global interconnectedness.”

Traditional vs modern cooking methods

Sample Answer (Band 6-7) for Question 2:

“Yes, I think traditional cooking methods are being lost in many places. This is happening because people are busier now and don’t have as much time to cook like their grandparents did. Also, there are so many convenience foods and ready-made meals available that it’s easier for people to just buy those instead of cooking from scratch.

Another reason is that younger generations often prefer modern, international cuisines over traditional local dishes. They might not learn the old recipes from their parents or grandparents. Also, some traditional cooking methods take a lot of time and effort, which doesn’t fit well with our fast-paced lifestyles.

However, I don’t think traditional cooking will disappear completely. There are still people who value these methods and try to preserve them. Some restaurants also specialize in traditional cuisine, which helps keep these cooking techniques alive.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance when discussing food and cooking, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:

1. Culinary (adjective) /ˈkʌlɪnəri/ – relating to cooking
   Example: “I’m fascinated by various culinary traditions from around the world.”

2. Gastronomic (adjective) /ˌɡæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to the art or science of good eating
   Example: “The city is known for its gastronomic delights.”

3. Connoisseur (noun) /ˌkɒnəˈsɜːr/ – an expert judge in matters of taste
   Example: “My uncle is a real connoisseur of fine wines and exotic cuisines.”

4. Palate (noun) /ˈpælət/ – a person’s appreciation of taste and flavor
   Example: “Traveling has really helped me develop a more refined palate.”

5. To savor (verb) /ˈseɪvər/ – to enjoy or appreciate something to the full
   Example: “I love to savor every bite of a well-prepared meal.”

6. Epicurean (adjective) /ˌepɪkjʊˈriːən/ – devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasure, especially good food and comfort
   Example: “The restaurant offers an epicurean experience with its exquisite menu and ambiance.”

Chef demonstrating culinary skills

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing food and cooking:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to food, cooking techniques, and flavors.
2. Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your points.
3. Show your ability to discuss both personal experiences and broader societal trends related to food.
4. Practice describing cooking processes and food preferences using complex sentence structures.
5. Be prepared to discuss cultural aspects of food and how they relate to wider social issues.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the topic, but also about expressing your ideas clearly, fluently, and with a rich vocabulary. Regular practice and exposure to English-language cooking shows or food documentaries can greatly enhance your ability to discuss this topic confidently.

For more IELTS Speaking practice, you might want to describe a traditional festival in your culture or describe a traditional dish in your culture that you want to learn to cook. These topics often intersect with food and cooking, allowing you to further expand your vocabulary and ideas in this area.