7 Top Tips For Cooking In Self Isolation

Now is as good a time as any to get busy in the kitchen. Whether you are self-isolating or in a quarantined area, we can all agree that utilising the foods we have in the pantry and getting creative is one of the most beneficial things we can do to curb shortages. Whether you are an experienced cook or newbie, here are seven tips for cooking in self-isolation.

Tips For Cooking In Self Isolation

1. Don’t Be Afraid of Substitutes

Regardless of what you’re making, sometimes you just don’t have the right spices and ingredients. Don’t let that sway you though – get creative! Have a pasta that calls for parsley? Use cilantro instead. Making tacos but ran out of sour cream? Sub natural yoghurt.

2. Organise Your Ingredients

This may seem like a no brainer, but we promise it works. Layout your ingredients first. No, not just for that perfect insta shot, but because it actually makes it a million times easier. Who wants to be knee-deep in a quarantine stew recipe digging around in the cupboard for dried thyme. If you have it laid out, you don’t have to worry. It also gives you a chance to measure out everything so that if you need to substitute, you know ahead of time.

3. Batch Prep

Use the freezer to your advantage. Take to the magical interwebs and find some recipes that you can batch prepare in the freezer. We’re talking chilis, soups, stews, even curries. This means you get a delicious homecooked meal later on without the fuss of throwing it together. You only need to reheat.

4. Utilize Leftovers

Okay, Okay, you should be doing this anyway, but still. Get creative with yesterday’s leftovers and add it to a new meal. Leftover chicken? Shred-it makes a bomb chicken taco bowl. Or how about that Sunday roast? Goes great as a sandwich with some tangy mustard and caramelized onions. Steamed veggies from last nights dinner? Toss with rice and spice for a quick and healthy bite.

5. Make It Your Own

Don’t be afraid to change recipes. Taste along the way and find what suits you. Let your tastebuds and creativity pave the way for the rest of the dish. End result? Food that is tailored exactly to your taste.

6. Don’t Waste

Every time you pour bacon grease out or throw away bones, a dog cries somewhere. Save the grease for future use like vinaigrettes or tossing veggies. That leftover chicken carcass? Make your own bone broth.

7. Bake, Bake, Bake

Given the state of the world right now, lots of us are uncertain and anxious about the future. Thankfully, there’s a small remedy that you can use right in your own kitchen. The oven! Studies have shown that baking can relieve stress. Yep, it’s 100% true. There is even such a thing as pie therapy. So while you’re in the kitchen, go ahead and whip up some rich brownies or finally master boule bread.