Simple Recipes To Cook During a Quarantine

While shelves are starting to clear, it may be getting harder to find everything you need to create that perfect dish. As we also practice social distancing, time spent on grocery lines should also be limited. If you are anything like me you might have a pantry full of flour, shelf-stable milk, canned goods or a jam-packed freezer.

Use the list below for some recipe ideas you can pull off, utilizing simple pantry ingredients.

Fruits and Veggies (Frozen or Fresh)

Staying healthy while in quarantine mode is super important, so getting your daily nutrients is a must. Although fresh is sometimes better, it is worth stocking up on frozen fruits and vegetables. Whether you use frozen peas, spinach or broccoli, have a look at these recipes to create a simple omelet, which you can toss into a great stir fry. Frozen fruits are perfect for smoothies as breakfast or a snack, as well as making a jam, which works well as a topping for bread or pancakes. 

Root Vegetables

Having potatoes or their 'sweet' variety in your pantry will also come in handy. If you are feeling a little creative, why don't you have a go at making gnocchi, it's a simple dish using minimal ingredients. You can also try your luck at baked sweet potato or roasted parsnips. 

Flour

One of the main ingredients that people seem to stock up on is flour. But now you might have a week or months supply of it, and not sure what to make? No need to worry, whether you are looking for a sweet or savory dish, many recipes use flour as their hero ingredient. If you are looking for something savory; bread or pizza dough is a great place to start. Alternatively, if you have more of a sweet tooth, then you can't go wrong with this pancake or cookie recipe.

Rice

Rice is another staple that many choose to stock up on, as a little bit of rice goes a long way. If you usually serve it on the side with some steamed vegetables, there are other recipes that pack flavor. A popular go-to is fried rice, which you can utilize your frozen vegetables in; or you can go the risotto route. If you are looking for a sweet alternative, then have a peek at this rice pudding recipe.

Pasta

Pasta is always a crowd favorite, and I varieties are plentiful, just take a look at your pantry. There are many recipes you can create for dinner which everyone will love. Some popular pasta dishes include spaghetti bolognese, mac and cheese or a simple pasta bake. If you have any leftover bolognese sauce, you can also use this to make lasagna, using this recipe as a guide.

Eggs

One way to get a good source of protein and Vitamin D (since you will be indoors more) is by consuming eggs. Able to store in your refrigerator for 5 weeks, eggs are great on their own, or as a staple for many dishes. A breakfast or anytime option is a breakfast burrito, where tortillas can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. You could also consider making a frittata, egg muffins or shakshuka.

Canned Goods

Canned goods are great for stocking up because of their long shelf life. One way you can utilize your canned beans or oily fish (sardines, salmon, tuna) with a sandwich or your own hummus dip. If dips are not your thing, check out these recipes for baked beans or red beans and rice.

Meat and Poultry

Meat is also great to stock up on, as it can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months. Ground beef is a great starting point if you are unsure about what you should buy, as you can make homemade burgers or meatballs. If you prefer chicken, check out this fried chicken recipe maybe you’re a buffalo wing person.

Whether you already have all or most of these ingredients in your pantry or need to do a quick online shop, here’s to making home cooking a little bit easier.