When there’ an emergency, you don’t need to go crazy buying groceries. But there are a few items you should have on hand to help make any possible quarantine period easier on you and your family. Check your pantry to see if you already have these items before going out to buy more so that you avoid waste and excess buying. It’s better to have the basics so you can make many dishes from scratch, rather than buy things in a panic and leave others without.
Trays of mince are your friend when it comes to stocking the fridge. Mince dishes are easy on your budget and can be stretched into lasagnes, pies and bolognese. Try this macaroni mince recipe which is quick to make and is great for nights on the run.
A few bottles of pasta sauce won’t go astray in an emergency. Keep bottles of simple tomato sauce in your pantry so you can whip up hearty dishes like this herb and cheese pasta bake which will be a hit with everyone at the dinner table!
Chicken is the heart of many recipes, and this chicken in a pot recipe is no exception. It uses juicy chicken thighs and makes enough to feed four even with leftovers. Stretch it further by serving it with rice, mash potato or pasta and you’ll have full bellies who won’t want for anything more.
These easy cheese balls use just 4 ingredients but make enough to keep hungry tummies full at snack time. Whip up a double batch and store them in a sealed container so you will always have something to curb cravings.
Nutella is a good spread to have in the pantry because you can use it in so many different ways! From Nutella brownies and Nutella muffins to spreading it on toast or making this Nutella slice recipe, there is always a delectable to use this spread. It stores well too!
A hearty bowl of noodles always hits the spot. Noodles are easy to store and easy to use. You can make dinner in a flash with just a few packets of noodles, some frozen veggies and your favourite noodle sauce. Try this Singapore noodles recipe for a noodle night in!
A big dish of fried rice puts a smile on everyone’s dial. Packets of rice can be stored easily in your pantry allowing you endless dinner options that can be served as a main or a side. From this fried rice recipe to creamy rice porridge, rice really is a staple everyone needs.
When you have pasta on hand you can make (almost) anything! Take this simple chicken pasta bake which uses store-bought pasta and packet sauce. It’s a delicious dinner option for the cooler months when you have hungry tummies to feed.
It’s always good to have a try or two of beef in the freezer so that you can whip up delicious, hearty dinners like this beef macaroni recipe. It’s a good hearty comfort meal that will two small baking dishes or one large dish.
Canned soup is a delicious addition to any dish. Plus, it freezes well. Extend the life of dinner so there is enough for leftovers. The whole family will feel nourished and it won’t hurt your wallet either. Try this easy minestrone soup that everyone will love.
These easy honey joys are really a joy to make. They use 4 cups of corn flakes so they’re perfect for hungry kids, or when you want a treat with your cuppa. Plus, they store well. This recipe makes 24 which is enough for almost everyone!
You can use powdered milk for almost anything, but the most delicious recipe is homemade yoghurt. Making your own yoghurt gives you a feeling of independence and works out to a fraction of the cost of store-bought yoghurt. Try this yoghurt recipe which uses powdered milk. You’ll soon enough have an endless supply of yoghurt that you can flavour as you wish!
Making your own bread is a skill you should have up your sleeve. Often we’re put off by making our own bread because we think it’s difficult. But at the end of the day, it’s bread, yeast, flour and water. Don’t be afraid of making your own bread. It’s easier than you think! This easy crusty white bread recipe is the perfect place to start!
Frozen vegetables are perfect for a hearty veggie bake like this vegetable bake recipe. Packets of frozen veggies are easy to store and the perfect way to up your veggie intake. Plus, the kids will love them if they’re delivered in a creamy, cheesy bake!
