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Living Well

Elevate your cooking to new heights

By StudentLife 06 Oct 2023

How you can easily spice up/improve any meal.

Being a student often means dealing with limited time, resources, and culinary skills. However, that doesn't mean you have to settle for bland and basic meals. With a little creativity and some essential ingredients, you can easily transform even the simplest dishes into gourmet delights. Let's explore some easy ways you can spice up and improve your meals without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.

Start with quality staples

The foundation of any great meal lies in the quality of your ingredients. While you may be working with a tight budget, investing in a few key staples can make a world of difference. Opt for fresh produce, good-quality proteins, and whole grains whenever possible. Fresh ingredients will add depth and flavour to your dishes.

Experiment with herbs and spices

Herbs and spices are the secret weapons of any good cook. Even a basic pasta dish can be transformed with a pinch of fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Create your own spice blend or invest in a few versatile options like oregano, thyme, cumin, and paprika to keep your meals interesting.

Sauces and condiments

Don't sleep on sauces! Experiment with different sauces like soy sauce, hot sauce, barbecue sauce, or sriracha to add a burst of flavour to your dishes. Try making your own salad dressings or marinades with olive oil, vinegar, and a mix of herbs and spices.

Roasting and grilling

If you have access to an oven or grill, consider roasting or grilling your ingredients. Roasted vegetables take on a delicious caramelized flavour, while grilled proteins can develop a smoky, charred taste that instantly improves the overall dish.

Don't forget about texture

Texture plays a crucial role in making your meals more interesting. Add some crunch with toasted nuts or seeds, or throw in some crispy bacon bits for that extra oomph. Croutons, fried onions, and grated cheese are also excellent options to enhance your dishes.

Incorporate fresh herbs and citrus

Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and chives can breathe life into your meals. Their vibrant colours and fragrant aromas can make even a plain dish feel gourmet. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can brighten up the flavours and add a zesty twist.

Embrace ethnic flavours

Exploring international cuisines can introduce you to a whole new world of flavours. Try incorporating ingredients and techniques from different cultures. For example, add curry powder and coconut milk for a taste of India, or use soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.

Leftovers makeover

Instead of reheating leftovers as-is, use them as a base for a new creation. Turn yesterday's roasted chicken into a delicious chicken salad with some mayo, chopped celery, and a sprinkle of dried cranberries. This not only reduces food waste but also adds variety to your meals.

Plan and prep ahead

Spend a little time each week planning your meals and doing some meal prep. Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, or cook grains in advance. Having these ingredients ready to go can save you time and make it easier to whip up tasty meals on busy days.

Share and collaborate

Cooking with friends or roommates can be a fun way to spice up your meals. Everyone can contribute different ingredients and ideas, making mealtime a creative and collaborative experience. Who knows, you might discover your flatmate is a culinary genius willing to teach you a thing or two!