Recipes

A recipe is a set of instructions that describes how to prepare a particular dish or beverage. It typically includes a list of ingredients, a sequence of steps, and guidance on timing and technique. Many recipes also specify yields (servings), preparation time, cooking time, equipment, and cooking temperatures. Some include variations, substitutions, or notes on allergens or dietary considerations.

Historically, recipes have functioned as records of culinary knowledge. Early written recipes appear in ancient Mesopotamian tablets and Roman cookbooks, with expanded collections in medieval and early modern Europe. The advent of the printing press and later magazines and cookbooks popularized standardized formats. In the digital era, online recipe databases, apps, and social media have broadened access and allowed user-generated adaptations.

Formats vary by culture and context. In professional kitchens, recipes often use concise instructions and standardized measurements to ensure consistency. Home cooking typically emphasizes flexibility and taste. Digital formats may include nutritional information, tags for dietary needs, and searchable keywords, enabling customization and indexing.

The recipe as a cultural artifact reflects ingredients, techniques, and values of its context. Substitutions and adaptations are common, reflecting available ingredients, budget, and dietary restrictions. Recipes also serve as teaching tools for culinary skills and a means of preserving culinary heritage through generations.