Meal Ideas during COVID-19 Epidemic

First of all, I hope you all are safe and healthy and remind everyone I am available for a live chat on this website with any questions you may have about cooking!

Times are very trying at the moment with the ongoing COVID 19 epidemic. The kids are home for who knows how long and now you have to prepare daily meals because the restaurants are shutting down. Well, don’t worry! I have a lot of great ideas for those who love to cook and those who don’t. Here is a very simple list of things you can make for your family that will stretch a few days in the fridge and freezer.

• Lots of Fruit and vegetables to keep the immune system healthy! Also vitamins, hot liquids, water, Vitamin C, and exercise. The virus does not like heat!

• Sandwiches/Po-Boys are quick and easy and can be made with PB&J or meats served with a side of veggies or chips. Also grilled cheese.

• Noodles can be cooked on the stove or in the microwave. Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, peas, corn, etc can be added for more texture and taste.

• Beans and Rice can be cooked on the stove or in a slow cooker or a instapot. I have the recipe for beans on my podcast. Any kind of beans would do such as red kidney, lima, pinto, navy, etc. This meal can also be frozen for later including the rice.

• Spaghetti or any type of pasta meal is quick and easy and can also be frozen for later.

• Chicken and gravy is also simple and can be cooked in the oven or stovetop. Rice or mashed potatoes can be a side along with a vegetable.

• Gumbo and soups are more timely but also a great meal to freeze for later. I have a recipe for this meal on my podcast and website.

• Baked Potatoes with a choice of many toppings like bbq pulled pork, cheese, bacon, sour cream, chives, butter, veggies, etc.

• Casseroles such as tater tots with chili and cheese, lasagnas, chicken spaghetti, shrimp spaghetti, taco, tuna casserole ( tuna with macaroni and cheese), etc. This is an easy meal that only requires to layer and place in the oven for 30 to 40 mins.

• Nuggets for the McDonalds kids...lol You can cut up some chicken thighs and make your own chicken nuggets that are tastier. Served with veggies or fries. Have your kids help with the process. They will love it!

• Fried Rice is also a great meal to mix with vegetables and eggs. Rice is a staple in helping to stretch foods. It can be paired with so many foods like meat, beans, vegetables, butter, etc. Grits can be used as a substitute for rice.

• Pizza can be made at home if unable to order out. The pizza dough can be purchased in the store along with pepperoni slices and pizza sauce. This is a very easy way to satisfy those pizza cravings without the cost and a much better taste!

• Meatballs with different sauces such as bbq, pasta, etc. can also be made in advance and frozen.

• Oh and the Desserts!!! The best part and the most fun! There are a whole lot of them. I have the very simple Caramel Cake on my podcast and also the King Cake!

Lagniappe

Rice can be frozen and defrosted by placing it in the microwave in a bowl with the top closed on it and a little bit of water for steam for about 3-5 minutes. Not only rice but most meals can be frozen and reheated for later. Also, try to have only two-three items per meal. Having one meat and one vegetable will help you stretch your food stash over a longer period of time.

This is really a great time to have your picky eaters explore the kitchen with you. Getting them involved in the preparation helps them explore different foods.

Stay safe and Be Blessed! Please like and share this post!

Here is a link for information on COVID-19:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html