Responsibilities of a Prep Cook
The position of prep cook is an entry level job working in the kitchens of restaurants, hotels, resorts, and conference centers. Prep cooks receive on-the-job training to perform tasks that enable them to eventually obtain higher positions in the food service industry.
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Preparation
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One of the main jobs of a prep cook is chopping, slicing and cutting ingredients needed to complete a variety of recipes. Prep cooks utilize a variety of tools for food preparation, including knives and grinders.
Assembly
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Prep cooks often assemble salads either in advance or when they are ordered. Chefs also ask prep cooks to combine cooked ingredients for serving, such as combining sauce with pasta or placing side dishes alongside the entrée on the dinner plate.
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Monitoring
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Though they do not perform any cooking duties, prep cooks often monitor the progress of food that is roasting or being grilled by checking the temperature of the food at regular intervals. They may also monitor other foods that are prepared and kept warm, such as soups or sauces.
Maintenance
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In some restaurants, prep cooks wash utensils as they are used and dishes as they are cleared from the tables. They also take out the garbage when instructed.
Storage and Inventory
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Prep cooks store leftover food and ingredients by packaging them according to the kitchen's standards. They may also assist the chef or restaurant manager with unpacking and stocking ingredients when they arrive.
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