How To Meal Prep: A Beginner's Guide to Effortless Cooking
Hiya, fellow foodies and aspiring meal preppers! Are you ready to revolutionize your kitchen game and conquer the art of meal prepping like a pro?
If you've ever found yourself spending hours in the kitchen only to end up with a handful of meals for the week, fear not. I've been there, done that, and I'm here to spill the beans (pun intended) on how to streamline your meal prep process and make it an enjoyable experience.
First things first, let's debunk a common misconception about meal prep: no food has to finish cooking at the same time, so it’s really not hard..at all! So, take a deep breath and let that sink in. You're not running a restaurant here; you're simply setting yourself up for success for the week ahead. Relax, take your time, and embrace the journey.
Planning
Before diving into the planning, take a moment to assess your schedule for the week. How many meals will you realistically be eating at home? Plan accordingly for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Take stock of what you already have in your pantry and fridge to minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
Meal Planning
Keep your end goal in mind when selecting recipes. Always choose recipes for simplicity and efficiency – the easier the recipes (20 minutes and under are best), the less time you'll spend slaving over the stove. And remember, variety is key! Choose recipes that excite your taste buds and align with your dietary goals.
Food Shopping
Ready with your meal plan, create a shopping list and stick to it like glue! Shop for whole, organic ingredients. Eating healthy on a budget is entirely possible – shop seasonally, compare prices, and keep your pantry stocked with essentials.
Kitchen Knowledge
Channel your inner Julia Child and master the art of mise en place – having everything in its place before you begin cooking. Clean as you go to maintain a clutter-free workspace and minimize post-cooking chaos. Remember, a clean kitchen is an organized kitchen and a happy one!
Basic Steps to Set Yourself Up for Success
Recipes: Gather your recipes and familiarize yourself with the ingredients and procedures.
Questions to Ask
Consider cooking methods (think about your stove and oven capacity), what are the additions to the meal like necessary sauces or dressings, and what are the cooking times for each recipe.
What to Cook First
Start with the longest cooking times and work your way down the list.
Let It Cool
Embrace the unconventional approach of cooking to cool – no need to rush the process. Cook each ingredient, let it cool then package it in your containers as you go.
CLEAN AS YOU GO…this one's a game-changer, for real… Seriously, don't skip it!
Portion Meals
Use tools like measuring cups and matching containers to ensure easy portioning, if you choose glass container those are great for easy reheat in the oven. I like biodegradable containers for the perfect grab go meal!