Newbies' corner
What do you use to make quick hot meals?
WiseKat · 16/09/2022 03:48
It might be a bit of a daft question , so I sorry . So hot meals …
I have been living in Asia for the past 12 years where domestic help is common (but there are downsides to this of course) and hot meals preparation is often outsourced (India) or people mainly eat outside (Singapore).
We are moving back to the UK but now with a 7-year old (to add to the complexity) and of course I want to provide her with hot meals. But what are the quickest ways as I will be looking for a job as well ?
I remember there are a lot of items in the fridge section of the supermarket which can be just heated up.
What do you make?
Many thanks in advance !
JustBkind · 16/09/2022 03:56
Of course ready meals are always an option but they are not always nutritious, tend to be high in fat and are pretty expensive. Can you batch cook things like bolognese, chilli, shepherds pie, curry etc, to have in the freezer and get out for a quick meal on the days you work? Pasta and noodle dishes are usually quick to prepare and much more nutritious to make yourself. Homemade soup and bread roll is also good on a cold winters day! Pizza in the freezer for a treat every now and again and/or when you’re rushed or tired. Chicken breast, vegetables, mash and gravy is always a firm favourite, especially with a Yorkshire pudding! Hope this has given you some ideas!
WiseKat · 16/09/2022 04:10
JustBkind · 16/09/2022 03:56
Of course ready meals are always an option but they are not always nutritious, tend to be high in fat and are pretty expensive. Can you batch cook things like bolognese, chilli, shepherds pie, curry etc, to have in the freezer and get out for a quick meal on the days you work? Pasta and noodle dishes are usually quick to prepare and much more nutritious to make yourself. Homemade soup and bread roll is also good on a cold winters day! Pizza in the freezer for a treat every now and again and/or when you’re rushed or tired. Chicken breast, vegetables, mash and gravy is always a firm favourite, especially with a Yorkshire pudding! Hope this has given you some ideas!
Yes thank you , this is really helpful !
autienotnaughty · 16/09/2022 04:32
I chop a load of veg at start of week to save time . And make double portions and freeze on to serve following week.
Fingernails4Cash · 16/09/2022 06:08
You need a reliable cook book which is at your level of cooking abilities and uses flavours you enjoy.
I'm a big fan of Jamie Oliver as the flavours include lots of Chinese and South East Asian influences which I enjoy (as well as other cuisines notably Middle Eastern). Browse in a bookshop to find something that's good for you.
Then plan your weekly meals before doing the weekly shop.
Before long you will develop a set of 7-15 meals which are tasty and manageable. It will get easier.
Good luck!
Chicheguevara · 16/09/2022 06:27
I batch cook and make my own favourite ready meals. Then I know what’s in them. My soup maker worked very hard. I would make ‘chunky’ soups but a bit more of a stew consistency. With added veg, they were perfect, any potato was already in. I have made chilli con carne in it before now.
I also use a ninja foodi which I can stew, slow cook, air fry, pressure cook, roast, bake, sauté, grill, steam etc in. I don’t have an oven. I can batch cook 10 meals using the pressure setting in under 15 mins, including all the weighing and chopping up.
As we come into winter, I shall be experimenting with baked potatoes. 10 minutes apparently, in a ninja.
For speed, batching cooking and plenty of freezer space is key, I think.
whingewhinge · 16/09/2022 06:28
Hello Freah - you can choose fresh meals that cook in less than 20 mins from scratch
WiseKat · 16/09/2022 14:53
Thank you all for the answers ! It gives me hope that I will also be able to manage 
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