5 big batch recipes to save you from cooking every night

Sometimes you just want a nice, homemade meal without much fuss about preparing, cooking and tidying up. With that in mind, I’ve got some tips on what I’ve learned about successful batch cooking and five recipes for large batches that will last you a long time.

To be honest, I love to cook. Usually my brain is a whirring train that is constantly on the move. Think. Stress. Strive. To worry. When I cook everything goes out the window. I am focused and present and I am fully aware of the task ahead. In order for my meals to come out the way I want them to be, I have to be selected so that I don’t have time to let my mind wander. It takes energy, but it is energy that is currently being used It is a form of active relaxation for me.

Nevertheless, there are a few days when I am so physically and / or mentally exhausted that I only need a break. I am divided into zones and cannot imagine any other task – even cooking! These days I have to order. My waistline and wallet might hit, but it suggests the alternatives of consuming more energy or not eating at all (the horror!). Oh, if only there was another way!

The thing is there is. Something that enables me to eat homemade meals without the work of indeed Cooking that night: cook a lot. All it takes is some (a little) planning and a little space in the fridge or freezer.

Cooking in large quantities as a husband and father of two was such a challenge children under five and not just for dinner. It’s a great way to prevent the $ 10 to $ 15 (or sometimes even $ 20) fast food lunch run for both of me and my wife, which reduced our lunch costs by about 50%. That’s a lot of money every month.

Continue reading: 21 simple family meals from the Slow Cooker

Six tips and tricks

When I cook in large quantities, I like to think of a few things. Some are tips, others are helpful memories.

First, the term “large” is relative. So what makes a batch big? Simply put, the batch is large when it delivers results that can be used beyond a single meal. In this way, much of my dinner is great in nature. Most of the time I earn enough for that night and lunch for a few days afterwards. Sometimes I make double or triple batches of a meal Place the remaining items in the freezer for a full dinner in the future. Cooking in large quantities is great because you can put aside individual servings or meals for four. Either way, it covered me.

Second, and associated with that, if I have a serving size recipe, I’ll adjust. When I cook for four that evening, I make at least six servings. This means adjusting the ingredient quantities and cooking times accordingly. For example, if I make a roast, it means increasing the size by about half a pound per person and extending the cooking time.

Third, cooking in large quantities on the day everything is prepared and cooked can be an easy sacrifice of time, but paying out is less work in the future. Instead of spending time preparing all meals Spend a little more time a day preparing larger / more meals in one day and simply warming up on other days. Note: There will be a small amount of cleanup when the food is consumed (I can’t solve it everyone Problem).

Fourth, I am not angry about how much pasta or rice for cooking. Each. When I cook pasta, I cook it in the box. If I only need eight ounces, I’ll sort it after cooking and cool the rest. Pro tip: When warming up, add a little oil or butter to the pasta so that they don’t become rubbery.

If I Cook riceI cook at least three cups (dry) worth it. Do you only need a cup (cooked)? It’s good. Your rice will be kept in the fridge. And when you’re ready to heat it up, add a dash of water to the bowl along with the rice. This prevents your rice from drying out. By the way, I recommend pasta and rice for cooking in large quantities. They heat up well and can be used with many main dishes.

Fifth, Sauces and spices are my friend. Have you ever made a casserole and found that the leftovers taste better? Sometimes time is on your side for certain dishes. If you cook large quantities, it can be a real benefit to let the flavors soak in. In addition, these sauces keep things aromatic and moist. What does that mean? Now when you make meat, keep the drops. Trust me.

Sixth, raw vegetables and fruits – really, most raw materials – is not my friend. Why? It won’t take time. And if it did, it could be withered or slimy or mushy or brown. When I cook in large quantities, I stick to cooked products. Cooked keeps!

Simply put, when I cook, I try to maximize my work. Sure, I love to cook, but I also like increasing overall efficiency and optimizing my productivity. If you find this appealing, cooking in large quantities may be right for you.

Big batch recipes

If you’re fascinated, here are five great batch recipes you might want to try:

Baked ziti

One of my favorite dishes ever is baked ziti. It tastes good, it stays good, and it’s easy to double or triple if you make a few casseroles in advance and want to keep them in the freezer. look at that baked ziti recipe. Give it a try ricotta as listed or without it by simply adding more Mozzarella!

Pork loin with vegetables

roast meat are pretty much made for cooking in bulk by nature – unless you get a tiny roast. (Wouldn’t that just be a “piece” or a “slash”?) Personally, I like pork meat. It is simple and versatile. Serve hot or cold, slice for sandwiches, warm in a saucepan or a few simple pieces with rice, pasta or Potatoes. However you cut it (pun!), It’s good. look at that Pork loin with vegetable recipe. If you plan to reheat the vegetables, you may want to cook them al dente. This way they are not overcooked when they are warmed up.

Simple tuna casserole

Tuna casserole is a great success in our house. First, we are Catholic, so meatless Fridays during Lent (which ended recently) require meatless recipes, and that fits the bill. Second, it tastes wonderful! Third, it is inexpensive. Fourthly, it is made with tuna, a protein that seems to stay on your shelf forever (but seriously, check your expiration dates) that stays safe during these times of safety / on-site protection / staying at home is one Asset. look at that simple tuna casserole recipe for a large batch!

chili

Make a single serving out of it chili seems … strange, which means that when you make chilli, you make a large amount. The same applies to Soups. If you’re looking for a trendy chili to try, Keto chili recipes Abundance or try classic beef and beans Slow cooker chili recipe.

Bake enchilada

I have said it before and I will say it again: it could be Taco on Tuesdays, but it could be seriously Enchilada Everyday! With that in mind, you may want to think about it an enchilada casserole on hand – you know, in an emergency. look at that Chicken Corn Enchilada Recipe.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare provider if you have any questions about an illness or health goals.