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So, you’ve just moved out of home for the first time, and unfortunately, mum and her cooking didn’t come with you. Never cooked before? Fret not - it’s all part of the learning experience that is moving out and we’re here to help. We’ve got a few tips on how to cook simple, delicious, affordable, and nutritious meals (because no one wants to deal with scurvy).

 

Where to Shop

If you’re living in New Cross, your closest grocery store is Sainsbury’s. Sainsbury’s is great and has everything you need, but it can get a bit pricey. For more affordable options, consider taking a 20-minute walk to the closest Lidl. Lidl doesn’t have everything but offers a variety of essentials at lower prices, perfect for stocking up your kitchen pantry. They have a good selection of spices, oil, butter, tinned goods, pantry carbs, nuts etc.

While Lidl is great for saving money, the convenience of Sainsbury’s can’t be ignored. Supermarkets often have membership programs that offer great deals and discounts, so sign up for the Nectar card from Sainsbury’s or Lidl Plus to maximise your savings.

 

How to Save

Cooking doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Preparation is key to making meals that are nutritious and affordable. Here are a few tips to help you save:

  • Frozen Foods: The freezer will be your best friend. Frozen fruits and vegetables are a great way to ensure you always have nutritious options without worrying about them spoiling.

  • Bulk Buying: Purchase items like bread, bananas, and meat in bulk and freeze them. This way, you always have food on hand, even when life gets busy. 

  • Purchase Containers: Invest in a variety of containers for meal prep and storage. 

 

Not Living Off the Brat Diet

We’ve all heard stories of students ONLY living off instant noodles or toast. And while we love ramen, it shouldn’t be the only thing you consume. Here are some simple, nutritious recipes that use ingredients you can constantly have in your pantry/fridge/freezer to get you started on your cooking journey. Remember, these are just for inspiration, so measure and season with your heart.

 

Simple Recipes to Get You Started

Meal

Ingredients

Method

Smoothie
  • Frozen banana
  • Frozen berries
  • Milk
  • Yoghurt
  1. Put all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until combined.

Overnight Oats
  • Rolled oats
  • Milk
  • Yoghurt
  • Apple
  • Honey
  • Chia seeds
  • Cinnamon

 

  1. Mix oats, chia seeds, and cinnamon together.
  2. Dice the apple and add to the mixture.
  3. Cover the mixture with milk.
  4. Add honey and yoghurt to the mixture and stir.
  5. Refrigerate overnight.

Omelette
  • Eggs
  • Onion
  • Frozen vegetables
  • Cheese
  • Bacon
  • Bread

 

  1. Dice 1/4 of a brown onion.
  2. Add oil to a small pan and fry the onion.
  3. Cut bacon into cubes and fry with the onion.
  4. Defrost some frozen vegetables and add them to the pan.
  5. Crack eggs in a bowl, season, and whisk.
  6. Pour the eggs into the pan, covering the onion, bacon, and vegetable mixture.
  7. Grate cheese over the wet egg mixture.
  8. Cover the pan with a lid and cook until the eggs are set.
  9. Serve with toast.

 

Pesto Pasta
  • Pasta
  • Jar of pesto
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Spinach
  • Cheese
  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Drain and stir in pesto.
  3. Add halved cherry tomatoes and spinach.
  4. Top with grated cheese.

Fried Rice

 

  • Rice
  • Frozen vegetables
  • Eggs
  • Preferred protein: tofu, chicken, prawns
  • Seasonings of choice: Soy, chilli, sesame oil
  1. Cook rice and set aside.
  2. In a pan, cook protein. 
  3. On the side, scramble an egg and add frozen vegetables.
  4. Season to taste.

Chilli Con Carne

 

  • Minced meat
  • Canned beans (kidney, black, or pinto)
  • Canned tomatoes
  • Canned corn
  • Spices (chilli powder, cumin, paprika, etc.)
  • Carbohydrate of choice

 

  1. Cook minced meat in a pan until browned.
  2. Add beans, tomatoes and corn.
  3. Season with your favourite spices.
  4. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  5. Serve with toast, rice, or potatoes.

 

Final Tips

  • Preparation: Spend some time each week prepping ingredients and planning meals. It will save you time and stress during the week.

  • Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new recipes and ingredients. Cooking is a skill that improves with practice.

  • Balance: Aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.

Moving out and cooking for yourself is a big step, but with a little preparation and creativity, you’ll be whipping up delicious meals in no time. Happy cooking!