Ditch the SAD Diet
Did you know that American's eat around 61% processed foods? That equally about 1000 calories per day of packaged, mostly grain based foods. This number doesn't even include sugary drinks!! I'd like to say that I'm shocked but I'm not. The tradition of cooking has slowly been declining in the last 3 generations and is only starting to pick up again. You are busy
You likely need two working incomes to pay the bills You are tired
These are all very reasonable reasons to not spend two hours cooking each night. But do you need to spend that much time cooking?
NO! Definitely not. Here are some tips to help speed up food prep and to use some modern conveniences in a non-processed way.
1. Not a big fan of chopping-> purchase pre cut veggies....yes I know they are a little more expensive but they will be less expense than big medical bills for not eating them!
2. Know which veggies can be used frozen. Not all veggies turn out great if frozen but these stand the test. 1) peas (technically a legume but it's green), broccoli, artichokes, okra, cauliflower, stir fry veggies and spinach.
3. Buy meat in bulk. I love having a stocked freezer. Before I leave for work I put out a package of something, even if I don't quite have a plan for it. This will discourage eating out so that food is not wasted
4. Invest in a pressure cooker or Instapot. I've used my old fashion pressure cooker for years and just love it. These wonderful cooking devices can take a dish that takes hours to cook and viola in 20 mins. Chicken marsala, veggie beef stew, Hyderabadi pork, curry are a few of my favorites
5. Cook one extra meal or side on Sunday. This saves me time and time again. If I made an additional meal on Sunday it can fill in when I'm in a pinch during the week. Now have lunches made for the week. Some recent examples include minestrone soup abd Southern Indian dal
6. Salad kits- ok yes there is plastic and some waste with these but they do allow for fresh veggies to be eaten in a very creative way in very little time. These can be used as a side dish or cook up some extra protein on top for a quick meal.