20 Hardest Dishes To Make And How To Succeed Every Time

Cooking is an art that challenges even the most experienced chefs. Some dishes stand out for their complexity and the skill required to perfect them. Here, we explore 20 of the hardest dishes to make and provide tips to help you succeed every time. Each dish requires attention to detail, patience, and a touch of culinary magic. Whether it’s mastering the delicate balance of flavors or achieving the perfect texture, these challenges are sure to enhance your cooking repertoire.

1. Beef Wellington

Imagine slicing into a Beef Wellington and revealing perfectly cooked beef encased in golden pastry. The challenge lies in balancing the cooking of the beef and the pastry without compromising either. To succeed, chill each layer before assembly. This helps maintain the structure and texture. Use a meat thermometer to achieve the ideal doneness of the beef. Once cooked, allow it to rest before slicing, ensuring all flavors meld together. The result? A dish that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

2. Soufflé

Picture a soufflé rising majestically in the oven. The magic of this dish lies in its airy texture, which can deflate with the slightest misstep. Whipping the egg whites to soft peaks is crucial. Fold them gently into the base to preserve the airiness. Avoid opening the oven door while baking, as temperature fluctuations can cause collapse. Success comes with practice and precision, culminating in a light, fluffy delight that impresses at any gathering.

3. Macarons

Macarons, with their smooth tops and dainty ‘feet,’ are the epitome of finesse. Achieving this perfect structure can be elusive. Consistency in measurement is key; a food scale is your best friend. Allow the piped batter to rest until it forms a dry, delicate shell. This step prevents cracking during baking. Bake at a precise temperature, avoiding shortcuts. The reward is a bite of sweet perfection with a slight crunch and chewy interior that melts in your mouth.

4. Croissants

The allure of croissants lies in their flaky layers and buttery taste. But this French classic demands patience and precision. Keeping both butter and dough chilled is essential to achieving the iconic layers. The lamination process—folding and rolling—is where magic happens. Plan for two days to allow proper rest periods. Rushing this process compromises the texture. The result? A symphony of flakes and flavor that transports you to a Parisian café with every bite.

5. Hollandaise Sauce

Silky and rich, hollandaise sauce is a testament to culinary skill. Its delicate nature can lead to curdling if not handled with care. Whisk the sauce over a gentle double boiler, slowly adding melted butter to maintain a stable emulsion. For beginners, a blender version can offer more control and consistency. The result is a luscious, velvety sauce that elevates dishes such as eggs benedict or asparagus to gourmet levels.

6. Ramen (From Scratch)

Crafting ramen from scratch is a culinary journey through flavors and textures. The deep, umami-rich broth requires long hours of simmering, allowing bones and aromatics to impart their essence. Fresh noodles add another layer of complexity; they require precise mixing and resting. Use kombu to enhance umami, and freeze portions for convenience. The dedication to detail rewards you with a bowl of comfort that’s as authentic as it is satisfying.

7. Paella

Paella, a Spanish classic, is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and crispy socarrat. Achieving this crispy bottom without burning requires careful attention. A wide, shallow pan is essential, allowing even cooking. Once you add the broth, resist stirring. This patience lets the rice absorb flavors and form the signature crust. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain steam. The result is a fragrant, colorful dish that’s a true feast for the senses.

8. Tamales

Tamales, wrapped in corn husks, hold a world of flavor within. Crafting them is an art that requires the right balance of masa and fillings. Ensure the masa is well-hydrated and rich in fat; this prevents drying out. Steam with the husks open-side up for even cooking. It’s labor-intensive but worth the effort, resulting in a tender, savory delight that captures the essence of traditional cuisine.

9. Baklava

Baklava, with its delicate layers of filo and rich nut filling, is a symphony of textures. Filo dough is notoriously delicate, prone to drying and tearing. To succeed, keep it covered with a damp towel while working. Butter each layer meticulously. Timing is crucial for syrup application; pour it over when one element is hot, allowing the flavors to soak in. The result is a sticky, sweet confection that’s pure indulgence.

10. Biryani

Biryani is a fragrant dance of spices, where each layer contributes to the final harmony. The rice, prone to turning mushy, needs careful handling. Parboil it first to maintain its structure. Cook the meat separately with spices to deepen flavors. During final steaming, seal the pot to trap aromas and moisture. The result is a dish that sings with flavor, each bite a testament to culinary artistry.

11. Cassoulet

Cassoulet, the quintessential French casserole, is a labor of love. Its depth of flavor comes from the slow melding of ingredients over time. Quality sausage and duck are vital, as is a long cook time. Letting it sit overnight enhances the flavors, while baking forms a crust that adds texture. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that embodies the rustic elegance of French cuisine.

12. Mole Sauce

Mole sauce is a flavorful journey through Mexican culinary tradition. Its complexity comes from a multitude of ingredients, each adding depth. Toast each component in stages to enhance flavors before blending to a smooth consistency. A slow simmer allows flavors to meld and deepen. Despite its complexity, the result is a sauce that transforms any dish into a celebration of rich, layered taste.

13. Choux Pastry (For Eclairs or Cream Puffs)

Choux pastry, the foundation of éclairs and cream puffs, is light and airy, yet structurally sound. Achieving this balance is key. Beat eggs into cooled dough one at a time, ensuring each is fully absorbed. Pipe evenly for uniformity, and bake until golden. The pastry should be hollow yet firm, ready to hold delightful fillings. Mastery of choux pastry opens a world of elegant desserts.

14. Pad Thai

Pad Thai, with its harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy, is a street food staple that requires balance. Overcooked noodles or imbalanced sauce can ruin the dish. Soak rice noodles rather than boiling them to preserve their texture. Achieving the right sauce balance before adding to the wok is crucial. With practice, you’ll create a dish that’s a vibrant, satisfying feast.

15. Pho

Pho is all about the broth—clear, aromatic, and deeply flavorful. Achieving this requires patience. Parboil bones to remove impurities. Skim frequently during simmering. Toasting aromatics like star anise and ginger adds depth. The result is a broth that sings with flavor, serving as the perfect base for noodles and thinly sliced beef. It’s a comforting, fragrant dish that warms the soul.

16. Cheesecake (Baked)

A well-executed cheesecake is a dream of creamy texture and subtle sweetness. However, cracks and soggy crusts can mar perfection. A water bath stabilizes the baking environment, preventing cracking. Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a smooth texture. After baking, allow it to cool slowly inside the oven with the door cracked. The reward is a flawless, indulgent dessert that’s a showstopper at any gathering.

17. Eggs Benedict

Eggs Benedict is a breakfast classic that combines poached eggs and hollandaise—a double challenge. Using fresh eggs is key, as they hold together better. Create a gentle whirlpool in the poaching water to help the eggs form. Make hollandaise just before serving for optimal texture. The outcome is a luxurious dish that marries flavors and textures seamlessly, perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch.

18. Risotto

Risotto, with its creamy consistency, requires attention and timing. Use warm stock to maintain a consistent cooking temperature. Stirring is important but not constant; let the rice absorb liquid fully. Finish by stirring in butter and cheese off heat for a luscious texture. The result is a comforting dish that’s rich, satisfying, and an embodiment of Italian culinary love.

19. Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin, an upside-down pastry, combines caramelized fruit and flaky pastry. The tricky part is the flip. Let the apples caramelize deeply; this is where flavor intensifies. Bake until the pastry is golden, then flip while still warm. Confidence is key, as is timing. The reward is a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, a sweet delight with every bite.

20. Layered Cakes (With Frosting and Filling)

Layered cakes, when done right, are a showstopper at any celebration. The challenge is in achieving level layers and preventing sliding frosting. Level each layer before assembly to ensure stability. Chill the cake between steps to set the frosting. A crumb coat before final frosting locks in crumbs. The result is a visually impressive cake that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold.