Can meal prep include both spicy and mild versions of the same dish? Learn the simple technique for catering to different spice preferences from one pot.
1 Answer
Yes, meal prep can absolutely include both spicy and mild versions of the same dish. Simply prepare the base dish and then add spices to a portion of it to create the spicy version.
Detailed Explanation:
Creating both spicy and mild versions of the same dish during meal prep is a great way to cater to different taste preferences or dietary needs within a household. The most efficient method involves preparing a large batch of the base dish without any spice. This base can then be divided into separate containers. To create the spicy version, add your preferred spices, such as chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce, to one or more of the containers. Mix well to ensure the spice is evenly distributed. This approach saves time and effort compared to preparing two entirely separate dishes. For example, if you're making chili, prepare a large pot of mild chili. Then, portion it out and add a generous amount of chili flakes and a dash of hot sauce to the containers designated as 'spicy.' Label each container clearly as either 'spicy' or 'mild' to avoid any confusion later. This method works well with many dishes, including curries, soups, stews, and even pasta sauces.
Pro Tip:
When adding spices to create the spicy version, start with a small amount and taste as you go. It's much easier to add more spice than to remove it if you accidentally add too much!