The topic of describing a recipe you recently tried is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss culinary experiences, express personal opinions, and use vocabulary related to food and cooking. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about cooking and food. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you enjoy cooking?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy cooking. It’s a fun way to relax after a long day and I like trying new recipes. I’m not an expert, but I can make some basic dishes quite well.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I find cooking to be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it allow me to unleash my creativity in the kitchen, but it also gives me a sense of accomplishment when I successfully recreate a complex dish. I particularly enjoy experimenting with fusion cuisine, combining elements from different culinary traditions to create something unique.
Describe a foreign dish you tried recently can be an interesting topic to discuss in this context, as it allows you to showcase your culinary knowledge and experiences.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a recipe you recently tried. You should say:
- What the recipe was
- Where you found the recipe
- Why you decided to try it
- And explain how the dish turned out
Band 6-7 Answer:
I recently tried making spaghetti carbonara. I found the recipe online while looking for easy Italian dishes. I decided to try it because I love pasta and wanted to cook something new for my family. The dish turned out pretty good. The sauce was creamy, and the bacon added a nice flavor. My family enjoyed it, though I think I used too much pepper. Overall, it was a success, and I’ll definitely make it again with some small adjustments.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I recently ventured into the world of French cuisine by attempting to make a classic Coq au Vin. I stumbled upon this time-honored recipe while perusing a renowned French cookbook I received as a gift. The decision to tackle this dish was driven by my desire to expand my culinary horizons and challenge myself with a more complex cooking technique.
The process was both exhilarating and daunting. I meticulously followed each step, from marinating the chicken in red wine to sautéing pearl onions and mushrooms. The aromatic blend of herbs and the rich sauce that developed as the dish slowly simmered was truly intoxicating.
When I finally plated the Coq au Vin, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. The chicken was tender and succulent, having absorbed the robust flavors of the wine and herbs. The sauce had reduced to a velvety consistency, coating each piece of meat perfectly. While it may not have been entirely on par with a French chef’s creation, I was immensely proud of my first attempt at this culinary classic.
This experience not only broadened my repertoire of recipes but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of French cooking. It’s certainly whetted my appetite for more culinary adventures in the future.
Follow-up Questions:
- How often do you try new recipes?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I try new recipes about once or twice a month. It’s fun to experiment with different foods, but I also like sticking to my familiar dishes.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I make a concerted effort to incorporate new recipes into my culinary repertoire on a regular basis, typically aiming for at least one novel dish per week. This habitual exploration not only keeps my cooking skills sharp but also broadens my palate and cultural understanding through food. It’s a delightful way to break the monotony of everyday meals and inject some excitement into my cooking routine.
- Do you think cooking is an important skill?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think cooking is very important. It helps you eat healthier and save money. Plus, it’s a good life skill to have.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I consider cooking to be an indispensable life skill. It goes far beyond mere sustenance; it’s a form of self-expression and a gateway to cultural understanding. Proficiency in cooking not only promotes healthier eating habits and financial prudence but also fosters independence and can be a source of immense personal satisfaction. Moreover, in today’s fast-paced world, the ability to prepare a nutritious meal is becoming increasingly valuable for maintaining overall well-being.
Describe a traditional meal in your country can be an excellent way to demonstrate your cooking knowledge and cultural awareness in this context.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How has technology changed the way people cook?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has made cooking easier and faster. We have appliances like microwaves and electric cookers that save time. Also, people can find recipes online easily now, which helps them try new dishes.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the culinary landscape in myriad ways. Smart appliances have streamlined the cooking process, making it more efficient and precise. For instance, sous-vide machines allow for perfect temperature control, resulting in consistently tender and flavorful meals.
Moreover, the proliferation of cooking apps and online recipe databases has democratized access to global cuisines, enabling home cooks to easily explore diverse culinary traditions. This digital cornucopia of recipes has fostered creativity and experimentation in kitchens worldwide.
Social media platforms have also transformed how we engage with food, creating communities where people share their culinary creations, exchange tips, and gain inspiration. This has led to a more collaborative and innovative approach to cooking.
However, it’s worth noting that while technology has undoubtedly enhanced many aspects of cooking, it has also led to some concerns about the loss of traditional cooking methods and the over-reliance on convenience foods. Striking a balance between embracing technological advancements and preserving culinary heritage remains a key challenge in the modern food landscape.
Question: Do you think traditional cooking methods are being lost?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think some traditional cooking methods are being lost. People are busier now and prefer quick, easy meals. Many young people don’t learn old recipes from their families anymore.
Band 8-9 Answer:
There’s certainly a valid concern that traditional cooking methods are at risk of fading into obscurity in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. The allure of convenience and the time constraints of modern life have led many to opt for quick-fix meals and rely heavily on processed foods, potentially eroding the knowledge and practice of time-honored culinary techniques.
However, I believe it’s not a clear-cut case of loss. Rather, we’re witnessing a transformation in how traditional methods are preserved and transmitted. Culinary schools, food documentaries, and dedicated online platforms are playing a crucial role in documenting and disseminating traditional cooking knowledge. There’s also a growing movement of food enthusiasts and chefs who are actively reviving and celebrating indigenous cooking methods, infusing them with modern twists.
Moreover, the global focus on sustainability and health has led to a resurgence of interest in traditional, whole-food based cooking methods. Many people are rediscovering the value of slow cooking, fermentation, and other ancestral techniques, recognizing their nutritional benefits and unique flavors.
While it’s true that the day-to-day practice of traditional cooking may be declining in some households, I believe we’re simultaneously seeing a parallel trend of preservation and reinvention. The challenge lies in striking a balance between embracing culinary innovations and maintaining a connection to our gastronomic heritage.
Describe a special meal you had recently can be a great way to showcase your knowledge of both traditional and modern cooking methods.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Culinary adventure /ˈkʌlɪnəri ədˈventʃər/ (noun phrase): An exciting experience involving cooking or trying new foods.
Example: Trying to make sushi at home was quite a culinary adventure. -
To whet one’s appetite /wet wʌnz ˈæpɪtaɪt/ (idiom): To stimulate one’s desire or interest.
Example: The aroma of freshly baked bread whetted my appetite for dinner. -
Gastronomic /ˌgæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ (adjective): Relating to the art or science of good eating.
Example: Paris is known for its gastronomic delights. -
To savor /ˈseɪvər/ (verb): To enjoy food or an experience slowly, in order to appreciate it fully.
Example: I like to savor every bite of a well-prepared meal. -
Fusion cuisine /ˈfjuːʒən kwɪˈziːn/ (noun phrase): A style of cooking that combines elements from different culinary traditions.
Example: The restaurant specializes in Asian-Latin fusion cuisine.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a recipe:
-
Expand your culinary vocabulary: Learn and use specific cooking terms, ingredients, and techniques.
-
Practice describing processes: Be able to explain cooking methods clearly and in detail.
-
Express opinions: Don’t just describe the recipe; share your thoughts on the taste, difficulty, and overall experience.
-
Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms and phrasal verbs related to food and cooking.
-
Speak fluently: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses. Practice speaking about various recipes to improve your fluency.
-
Show enthusiasm: Convey your interest in the topic through your tone and choice of words.
-
Provide specific details: Instead of general statements, give precise information about quantities, cooking times, or specific ingredients.
Remember, the key to success is regular practice. Try describing different recipes to friends or record yourself speaking. This will help you identify areas for improvement and boost your confidence for the actual test.
Describe a restaurant you recently visited can be an excellent way to practice using culinary vocabulary and expressing opinions about food.
Describe a time when you helped someone learn a new skill could be relevant if you’ve ever taught someone how to cook a particular recipe.