Meal planning
Batch Cook Components Instead of Meals
Choose components that work in more than one combination. Plain lentils can go into soup, a salad or a bowl when seasoned differently.
What you need
- A cooked grain
- A protein
- Roasted vegetables
- Two sauces
Put it into practice
Keep sauces separate so flavors stay distinct. Label containers with the preparation date and refrigerate promptly in shallow containers.
The detail that makes a difference
Batch only what you expect to use. Freeze suitable extra portions early instead of waiting until they have spent several days in the refrigerator.
Make it work in your kitchen
Start with a small batch and taste as you go. Keep a note of the ingredients and proportions you prefer so you can repeat the result. For substitutions, consider texture and cooking time as well as flavor; a softer ingredient often needs less time than a firm one.
These are practical cooking guides, not laboratory-tested recipes. Cooking times vary with ingredients, equipment and portion size. Follow package instructions where applicable.