Didn’t know about this technique until now

Easy Ways to Implement the Technique

Now that you know the basics, here are a few practical ideas for using this kitchen hack in your everyday cooking routine:

1. Batch-Cook Proteins

Cook a large portion of your favorite protein, like chicken, beef, or tofu. Then, use it in different meals:

• Chicken: Make a roast chicken one night, then use the leftovers for chicken sandwiches, a chicken pasta dish, or even a chicken stir-fry.
• Beef: Cook extra ground beef for tacos, spaghetti sauce, or chili.
• Tofu: Pan-fry extra tofu for a Buddha bowl, salad, or sandwich.

2. Pre-Cook Grains and Pasta

Prepare grains like quinoa, rice, or farro in advance and use them as bases for multiple meals. Cook extra pasta for an easy pasta salad or stir-fry.

3. Chop Vegetables in Bulk

Wash and chop a large quantity of vegetables (such as onions, bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini). Store them in airtight containers, ready to be used for soups, salads, or stir-fries.

4. Make Double-Batches of Sauces and Soups

Soups, sauces, and casseroles are perfect for this technique. Cook a large pot of soup or sauce and freeze half for later, or use it throughout the week for different meals.

5. Plan Simple One-Pot Meals

Make use of one-pot meals, like casseroles or sheet-pan dinners, that can feed you for several days. With this method, you’ll have the base of your meal ready for a few days, making lunch and dinner stress-free.

Tips for Success

• Label and Organize: Keep track of what you’ve prepped by labeling containers with dates. This ensures you use older ingredients first and avoids spoilage.
• Portion Control: Portion out cooked ingredients into smaller containers or bags for easy grab-and-go meals during the week. You can even freeze some portions for later use.
• Invest in Good Storage: Invest in airtight containers or freezer bags to store prepped ingredients. This will keep them fresh for longer and prevent freezer burn if you’re freezing items.
• Mix It Up: Don’t get stuck in a rut—vary the flavors and ingredients each week to avoid getting bored with your meals. For instance, if you batch-cooked chicken, try different seasonings or sauces each time to create variety.

Final Thoughts: A Technique You’ll Love

This “cook once, eat twice” technique isn’t just about saving time—it’s about creating a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience. By preparing ingredients or meals in advance, you can streamline your daily routine, reduce stress, and still enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week.

If you hadn’t heard of this kitchen hack until now, give it a try the next time you meal prep. With a little planning and some simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how much easier your week can be, and how delicious your meals will turn out!

Happy cooking!