What is batch cooking?
Before you get intimidated by the term, all it really means is making larger portions of different foods in one session. Why? So you can simply save them for a later date. You can mix and match ingredients to create versatile lunches and dinners without having to actually cook a whole meal from scratch. The key is to make sure you have enough fridge and freezer space – plus loads of containers!
Items that are great to make in bulk
Soup
Soup is wonderful to freeze and doesn’t require too much effort aside from blitzing everything up with a stick blender once it’s cooked on the stovetop.
TRY: Spiced lentil and vegetable soup OR Spicy coconut broccoli soup
Ragu
This is one of the easiest meat dishes to freeze. Plus, it really takes the comfort-food factor up a notch.
TRY: Mushroom and beef short rib ragu tagliatelle OR Pork cheek ragu
Pies
Pies really freeze well and are the perfect antidote to a long day of working from home. You can make your own pastry or opt for store-bought.
TRY: Fish and potato pie OR Creamy chicken pie with corn and basil
Casseroles
A family classic that’s hard to resist.
TRY: Veggie and meatball casserole OR Pork and shallot casserole with sage and mushrooms
Fruit compote
This is great to have on hand for quick breakfasts. Add to pancakes or simply spoon over plain yoghurt for something a little healthier.
TRY: Berry compote OR Apple sauce
3 Quick tips:
1. If you aren’t cooking whole meals, use ingredients that have a neutral flavour. This allows for flexibility so that you can spontaneously assemble whatever you’re craving in the moment. Ways to prepare: chop or cook any vegetables, cook your grains and proteins, and make dressings and sauces. Then keep them all separate and combine when ready!
2. Don’t overcomplicate it. Make two or three batch-cooking meals for the week. You don’t need to have every meal prepped and planned like a military operation.
3. Portion as much as you can. By portioning your food, it allows you to reheat only what you have taken out of the fridge/freezer – and also means you have a mental stocktake of how much you have left.
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