In order to explore the indoor air quality during different cooking procedures, a very common kitchen in China is selected for experimental research. An indoor air quality meter is used to measure the temperature, relative humidity, and CO and CO₂ concentrations of the indoor air above the stove when people cook four different dishes under different ventilation patterns in the kitchen. The results indicate that the heat and gas consumed during cooking are closely related to the temperature and concentrations of CO and CO₂. Some cooking procedures such as boiling water are related to the indoor air temperature and relative humidity in the kitchen. In addition, in kitchens without mechanical ventilation, natural ventilation shows a more significant positive effect on controlling temperature, relative humidity, and concentrations of CO and CO₂ during cooking procedures.