From reducing waste to saving time, meal prepping has a lot of benefits, particularly for large families. Admittedly, the numbers of a big family means it’s not the easiest thing to do. Still, you can do it, and here are 3 helpful tips.
Consider a Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Outdoor Kitchen
Meal prepping doesn’t have to be confined to the indoor kitchen—it’s time to take it outside! An RTA Outdoor Kitchen is like adding a meal prep HQ to your backyard, where you can chop, grill, and prep with a side of fresh air and sunshine.
Scope out your backyard for the perfect spot to set up shop. Look for an area with easy access to utilities if you’re adding a sink or fridge. Then, check out different setups. Look for features like ample counter space, built-in grills, and storage for all your meal prep essentials. Basically, you want to tailor your outdoor kitchen setup to fit your meal-prepping needs
Invest in the Right Kitchen Tools
Meal prepping is all about efficiency, and the right tools can make all the difference.
Take stock of your go-to recipes and meal prep routine. What tools do you use the most? What could make your prep process smoother? Then, upgrade your arsenal accordingly and invest in top-quality kitchen tools that’ll stand the test of meal-prepping time. Think sharp knives, durable cutting boards, and multi-functional gadgets like a food processor or immersion blender.
You also want to keep your meal prep area clutter-free so that your tools can be organized for maximum efficiency and safety. In fact, designate specific tools and utensils for meal prepping to streamline your process.
Use Freezer-Friendly Recipes
Freezer-friendly recipes are the meal prepper’s best friend. They let you cook once and eat twice (or more), saving you time and energy on busy days. Plus, they’re a lifesaver for reducing food waste.
Choose make-ahead meals. Look for recipes that can be prepped ahead of time and frozen for later. Think hearty stews, casseroles, and pasta bakes that can withstand the chill. Then set aside a day for batch cooking and meal prepping. Whip up big batches of your chosen freezer-friendly recipes to stock your freezer with meals for the week ahead. Once your meals are cooked, you want to divide them into individual portions or family-sized servings and transfer them to freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to label them with the contents and date.
Then, all that’s left is to thaw and reheat! When you’re ready to enjoy your freezer meals, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Then, reheat until hot and dig in. It’s a good idea to teach your family how to do this as well.
Meal prepping for a large family can be a lot of work. Try out these tips and make things easier for you.
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