In the interests of avoiding forking out $40 and feeling a helluva lot more virtuous, here are some meal ideas we use in our house that require very little preparation, and end up tasting much better than the semi warm KFC burger!
1 - Cheats Fried Rice.
We prefer brown rice, but the time it takes to cook puts me off. I use the 'pouches' of rice that you pop in the microwave. OK, so they may not be economically a great idea, but when you want a quick accompniament to a meal they are SO easy!
Pop the rice in the microwave for suggested cooking time, then pour into a container and stick in the fridge whilst preparing other ingredients. You can throw in whatever combination of veggies you like, we use capsicum, peas, and carrot. Fry an egg, a chopped onion and a couple of slices of bacon (or you can use ham). Chop up and add all other ingredients and pour in cooled rice. Toss until warm and cooked through. I also add some ketcap manis (sweet soy sauce) for a nice tang.
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| This is not my version, but looks pretty close! |
2. Fish and Vegetables
A pretty obvious one, but it disappears from my kids plates in a flash and requires very little time and effort. Grill or pan fry your fish fillets, cut up and steam your favourite veggies, and pour over some cheese sauce (packet or home made.)
3. Slow Cooked Corned Beef.
OK - so this one takes some planning to KNOW that you will be in a CBF mood. Cut up a few carrots, halve an onion and dot with cloves. Add it to your slow cooker with your beef, pour in a little brown vinegar and brown sugar. Cook on low for about 7 hours. Serve with peas, mashed potato and a white sauce.
I've cheated a bit today for Kate's Menu Monday, in that I have not actually posted a recipe, but hopefully have provided a little inspiration for the days when the last thing you want to do is cook!
