REAL / MANLY · FIELD CARD 022

Before the flame.

A paper-first sequence for one weeknight meal. Nothing entered here is submitted or stored.

What are we cooking?

Finish / serve step

Longest cook or wait

Must stay cold / separate

01 / CLEANGather

Read ahead, rinse produce, plan tools, keep cold food cold.

02 / ACTIVECook

Watch heat and timers; use food thermometers as required.

03 / FINISHServe + reset

Keep raw/ready-to-eat separate; store leftovers safely.

Read all recipe / package directionsPlan clean hands, boards and surfacesSeparate raw foods from ready-to-eatCheck relevant safe cooking temperatureFind serving dish and final garnishPlan safe refrigeration and cleanup

One surprise to fix next time

This is a sequencing aid, not a recipe or food-safety chart. Follow FoodSafety.gov's Clean · Separate · Cook · Chill guidance and current product/recipe instructions. Article: realmanly.com/food/counter-before-flame/