The warning of a famous Spanish chef ex-Michellin star about one of the most dangerous habits in the kitchen: “It’s a prank”
Spanish chef Karlos Arguiñano didn’t hold back during the launch of his latest cookbook, 545 Recipes to Succeed, criticizing one of the most widespread (and harmful) kitchen habits.
At 76, Arguiñano, one of Spain’s most beloved and respected culinary figures, is enjoying one of the strongest moments of his career. After nearly four decades on television, his cookbooks continue to be best-sellers across the country.
Known for his emphasis on simple, home-cooked meals, Arguiñano’s style remains front and center on his daily TV show Cocina Abierta, broadcast on Spain’s national channel Antena 3. There, he not only cooks, but also entertains and offers advice on everything from ingredients to kitchen habits.
His latest book, 545 Recipes to Succeed, dives into the world of healthy cooking. During its launch, Arguiñano expressed gratitude for the continued success of his work—but also used the moment to call out some careless cooking practices, such as pouring used cooking oil down the drain.
“90% of people pour used oil down the sink. Some will keep doing it and not care, but it’s completely disgusting,” said the Basque chef.Instead, Arguiñano recommends keeping a glass jar nearby to collect and recycle used oil:“We’re sending our cholesterol straight into our home’s pipes.”
Cooking oil: a hidden environmental threat
Used oil is highly polluting. Just one liter can contaminate up to 1,000 liters of water. This not only clogs pipes and causes foul odors, but also makes water purification much more difficult—leading to greater environmental damage and water waste.
Arguiñano also points a finger at poor eating habits and rushed lifestyles, especially in big cities. The chef believes that stress and lack of time are behind much of society’s negligence in the kitchen. He even admits to feeling overwhelmed himself in cities like Madrid, where, in his words, "nobody looks at anyone."
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