I love cooking, but then it can get overwhelming at times – esp when it comes to planning the meal~ Here are a few hacks that I have come to realise over time that make it easier..
We all know the struggle: a rumbling stomach, the takeout menu mockingly open on the counter, yet the thought of cooking feels like scaling Mount Everest. Fear not, fellow foodies! Here are 5 hacks to transform your kitchen into a daily adventure, not a chore:
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Embrace the Quick and Easy: Let’s ditch the pressure of Michelin-star meals. Focus on delicious, fast options. Think one-pan wonders like stir-fries, sheet pan dinners (veggies + protein!), or quick pasta dishes. I am a big fan of one pot dishes, and use the pressure cooker for nearly everyday cooking- sambar rice, kichdi, mixed veg with dahlia, or even noodle soup.
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Plan and Conquer: The enemy of motivation? Indecision. Spend 15 minutes on the weekend browsing recipes and creating a meal plan. This eliminates the “what’s for dinner?” panic and ensures you have everything on hand when hunger strikes. Bonus points for factoring in leftovers for lunch! While I have tried making meal plans, it just doesnt work. It is always best to go with what’s there in the pantry when I get down to cooking. For ex, today am thinking of making pasta or noodles, but that depends of which of the two I have enough of [ for 2 people]
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Turn Up the Fun Factor: Cooking shouldn’t be a solitary activity. Put on your favourite music or an engaging podcast to create a fun atmosphere. Light some candles, pour yourself a glass of wine, or even involve a family member in the chopping, stirring, and singing..hehe,. just go with the mood.
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Spice Up Your Skills: Feeling stuck in a recipe rut? Explore a new cuisine each week! From vibrant Thai curries to hearty Moroccan stews, the world is your paneer (or tofu, whichever you prefer). Challenge yourself with unfamiliar ingredients or techniques and celebrate even the small victories!
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Celebrate Leftovers, Not Loathing: Leftovers aren’t a punishment, they’re a gift to your future self! Cook double batches for easy lunches or reimagine leftovers into creative new dishes. Leftover chicken can become a stir-fry, or roast vegetables can be transformed into a delicious soup or become the base for a thai curry or even pasta. Leftovers are your secret weapon against takeout temptations! I even cook ahead of time, store them in containers and use them for sambar/rasam or other dishes. Makes it so much easier.
