Batch Cooking Plant-Based: Simplify Your Life with Healthy Meals

Batch cooking, also known as cooking in batches, has become an invaluable strategy for those who want to lead a healthy and balanced lifestyle. It is especially beneficial for those of us who follow a plant-based diet, as it allows us to prepare nutritious meals in large quantities, saving time and minimizing daily kitchen stress.

First and foremost: What is batch cooking? If you haven't heard of it before, batch cooking is a food preparation technique that involves cooking a lot of food in one session and then storing it to be consumed throughout the week.

This method is my best ally in the endless task of living a healthy life. It has not only helped me spend less time in the kitchen but also ensures I always have healthy and balanced meals on hand, giving me time to dedicate to other activities, like practicing yoga and hanging out with my friends.

To introduce this routine into your life, the best way is to do it in an organized manner. The first thing I do is careful planning where I select recipes and make a shopping list, ensuring which products I already have at home and which I need to prepare my new recipes. Every week I choose a day to cook; in my case, every Sunday I plan and do my smart shopping, taking advantage of sales and fresh seasonal products.

It doesn't have to be boring; with my roommates, we put on music and all chop and dice the vegetables together. We then store them in airtight glass or plastic containers. Ensuring they help preserve freshness, since we've had times when a container didn't seal properly and all the food spoiled... I don't recommend that! Also, if you make a lot of food, it's best to label it with the preparation date so you know the limit for eating it.

The other day, talking with a friend in my yoga class, she gave me the best tips for vegan batch cooking:

1. Explore new flavors:

   Try different recipes and ingredients each week. This way you don't get bored and always learn new things.

2. Take advantage of appliances:

   These make life easier. My slow cooker is ideal for stews and soups that can be prepared and frozen. I also use the oven to cook vegetables that I then use in multiple recipes or to make my fantastic hummus.

3. Snacks and quick meals:

   I love snacks, and for summer, there's nothing better than portions of fresh fruit, green smoothies, or the classic avocado toast.

Now, some super easy and healthy recipes for you to try with batch cooking:

Lentil and Vegetable Curry Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked lentils

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can of coconut milk

• 2 tablespoons curry paste

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until golden.

2. Add the carrots and bell pepper, and cook for a few minutes.

3. Add the curry paste and mix well.

4. Stir in the cooked lentils and coconut milk. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Divide into portions and store in airtight containers.

Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 eggplant, diced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the vegetables on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and golden.

3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables.

4. Dress with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Serve and store in airtight containers.

Stir-Fried Tofu with Vegetables Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cubed

• 1 broccoli, cut into florets

• 1 carrot, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add the tofu and cook until golden on all sides.

4. Add the vegetables and cook for a few minutes until they are tender but crisp.

5. Add the soy sauce, mix well, and cook for 1-2 more minutes.

6. Divide into portions and store in airtight containers.

I hope you enjoyed my little guide on Vegan Batch Cooking. Start planning your week today and discover how this tool can transform your eating routine. And about the recipes, tell me... which one did you like the most?