How to Create a Free Online Cookbook
Learning new recipes and sharing them with others can be fun. The Internet has opened the door to a world of recipes never before possible. Learn how you can create a free online cookbook that will allow you to share and exchange recipes and to amass a database of recipes so large you'll never be at a loss for something to prepare for dinner.
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Instructions
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Determine the type of online cookbook you want to create. Do you want to limit your recipes to a particular ethnic cuisine or regional style of cooking, or do you want an eclectic database of recipes? Write down the categories you plan to include.
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Gather your recipes. Start with your own special recipes and family recipes. It's a good idea to put these in a separate category of their own on your web site. Surf the Internet and collect recipes you find interesting or believe others would enjoy. Contact website owners who own these recipes and ask if you might use them on your site. Always ask for permission. Explain what you're doing. Most will probably be open to the idea, and you may even find a partner who will help you develop your free online cookbook.
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Get free web hosting. There are a number of Internet sites that offer this (see link in Resources). A free web host provides the tools you need to upload your recipes and images. Built-in tools allow you to customize the colors and text of your website and even create forms, which will be helpful to visitors to your free online cookbook web site.
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Take pictures of as many of your dishes as possible, in finished form. Include pictures with your recipes to increase their appeal. Make your online cookbook easy to navigate. A simple menu containing links to your recipes is all you need.
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In addition to the recipes themselves, include bits of text in a relaxed, chatty manner, especially for recipes that have been in your family for generations. Tell a special story about the recipe or recall a fond memory about helping your mother or grandmother prepare it. People like to feel at home when they visit your web site. You might consider adding tidbits of historic information about some of the ingredients found on your web site. A special section on "Tools and Ingredients Every Cook Should Have in the Kitchen" might be helpful.
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Include a form field on your web site that allows visitors to submit their own recipes and stories. Visitors will love the interactive approach. Follow these steps and you will soon have a huge online cookbook that will serve not only you, but those who visit your free online cookbook as well.
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