What is a simple plan to prep weekend food for 4 family members?

Question

How do you prep a 3-in-1 base gravy to save on ingredients? Learn the recipe for a versatile masala that can be adapted for multiple curries.

Answer 1

Plan meals, shop efficiently with a list, and dedicate a few hours on Friday evening or Saturday morning to chop vegetables, cook grains, and prepare sauces. This will significantly reduce cooking time during the busy weekend.

Detailed Explanation:

Preparing weekend food for a family of four doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here's a simple, effective plan:

1. Meal Planning (30 minutes):

   Sit down and decide what you'll eat for each meal on Saturday and Sunday. Consider everyone's preferences and dietary needs. Write down the ingredients needed for each meal. For example:

   • Saturday Breakfast: Pancakes with fruit
   • Saturday Lunch: Sandwiches with deli meat and salad
   • Saturday Dinner: Pasta with marinara sauce and meatballs
   • Sunday Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with toast
   • Sunday Lunch: Leftover pasta
   • Sunday Dinner: Roast chicken with roasted vegetables
2. Efficient Grocery Shopping (1 hour):

   Create a detailed shopping list based on your meal plan. Organize the list by grocery store sections (produce, meat, dairy, etc.) to save time. Stick to the list to avoid impulse purchases.

3. Prep Day (2-3 hours):

   Choose a block of time on Friday evening or Saturday morning for food preparation. Focus on tasks that will save time later:

   • Chop all vegetables: Onions, peppers, carrots, celery, etc. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
   • Cook grains: Rice, quinoa, or pasta can be cooked ahead of time and reheated.
   • Prepare sauces: Marinara sauce, salad dressings, or marinades can be made in advance.
   • Marinate meat: Marinate chicken, beef, or pork for enhanced flavor.
   • Portion snacks: Divide snacks like fruits, vegetables, or nuts into individual bags for easy grabbing.
4. Weekend Cooking (Minimal Time):

   With the prep work done, weekend cooking becomes much easier. Simply assemble the ingredients and cook according to your meal plan.

Pro Tip:

Double recipes and freeze half for future meals. This is a great way to build up a stash of ready-to-eat meals for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Label and date everything clearly before freezing.