Mise en Place (pronounced mees-on-plass) literally translates to, "put in place." It is a French phrase that refers to having everything ready to go while cooking. This means having ingredients measured out, tools arranged and having everything you need within arm's reach. It's a process that not only helps professionals work quicker and more efficient, it is also beneficial for home cooks.
Mise en place does not just refer to having everything close to you, though. It also encompasses having clean knives, your space clear, and so many more things along those lines, much like having a disciplined routine in the military.
By adopting mise en place in your home kitchen, you can be more efficient, safer, cleaner and most importantly, more relaxed.