As a new mom I had to rethink how I cook and prepare food given the new demands of my little one. I strategized meals that allowed for flexibility, convenience, and minimal-to-no cooking time that still boasted bold flavors and were crave worthy—meals I actually wanted to eat versus just shoving whatever food I had on hand into my mouth out of necessity. Here’s my list of 10 meals that are fast, easy, and delicious—perfect for busy moms or anyone looking to put food on the table in a hurry, while maintaining taste and quality.
Category Archives: One-Pot Meals
Baked Prawns in Tomato Sauce with Feta (Garithes Yiouvetsi)
Baked Prawns in Tomato Sauce with Feta (Garithes Yiouvetsi)
Cooking opens the world up to you. It’s magical really, its ability to transport you to faraway lands. More than any other medium—books, films, music—eating ignites the senses and connects you with a place. This is part of the reason I like to cook foods from around the world, to indulge my curiosity, to explore, and to imagine.
In Greece, a mountainous Mediterranean nation comprised of 2000 islands, fresh seafood abounds, grape vineyards and olive groves flourish, lemon trees prosper in gardens, and flocks of sheep and herds of goats graze and forage in the valleys. It’s no surprise that these ingredients—and the products derived from them—factor heavily into Greek cuisine.
Japanese Pork and Potatoes (Nikujaga)
Japanese Pork and Potatoes (Nikujaga)
Nikujaga is a traditional Japanese dish of meat and potatoes simmered in a soy, mirin, and sugar broth. In eastern Japan pork is commonly used, while in western Japan beef is preferred. As the meat and potatoes cook, the broth is reduced and the ingredients absorb its flavor. The finished dish–a hearty stew–is sweet, savory, and utterly comforting.
Japanese pork and potatoes is easy to prepare, and doesn’t even require a trip to an Asian market. Soy sauce and mirin—the only speciality ingredients—can be found in the Asian section of most grocery stores. This dish is great for beginners experimenting with Japanese cuisine. It’s a one-pot meal that requires minimal attention after the initial prep.
Crock Pot Mole Chicken
Recently, I’ve had some requests for crock pot meals and it has reminded me just how handy this method of cooking really is. Though there is some prep required, the crock pot cuts back on the active time in the kitchen. The main beauty of using a slow-cooker—in my opinion at least—is walking in the door after a long day and having dinner ready, waiting on you. It’s almost magical in a way, opening the door and having the smells of a home-cooked meal greet you. When you’re feeling energized in the morning, you start the meal; that way, you can come home and relax—dinner is already made!
Coriander Fish with Lemon Rice
This meal is flavorful, fast, and healthy. With very little prep required and the use of only one pot, this meal is great for a busy week night. The zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds transform ordinary rice into a satisfying, citrusy delight. The spice-rubbed fish is placed over the rice and is steamed, producing a very healthy alternative to sautéing or frying. The coriander spice mix complements the flavors of the rice with the citrus-like flavor of the coriander, while the ginger and paprika add spicy, sweet notes. A truly, satisfying dish.