30 Cooking and Baking Ideas for Staying at Home!
Hi everyone! Hope you're all doing well out there. We're going through a really strange time right now, and for many of us, a pandemic like this is unprecedented during our lifetime. It can feel really, really lonely and scary. BUT! As much as I've felt anxious over the past few days, I'm also looking at this time of isolation as an opportunity to slow down, check in with myself, do things that bring me joy and unleash my creativity in any way that I want to.
It's funny because as much as I feel like I get to do what I love most days, the total elimination of any sort of monetary/work obligation truly does feel freeing in terms of how I decide to spend my day-to-day. For me, this of course means experimenting in the kitchen and cooking/baking lots of super nourishing food, and I encourage you all to the same. I often hear people lament over the fact that they don't have enough time or patience to cook and meal prep, or that they aren't "good" at cooking. Well, this is your chance to change that! Spend some time in the kitchen, throw on some music or a podcast and experiment with new flavours and recipes. My advice is to slow down, appreciate the opportunity and enjoy the process. I promise that it will make you feel calm, grounded and relaxed.
Below are a few suggested recipes to get you started (from both my site and others). Whether it's working away at a cozy stew or baking banana bread, I hope this helps you to find some inspiration in the kitchen and stay positive.
Sending all my love! Please share this with whoever needs it ❤️ And if you have any questions, feel free to DM me at any time and I'd be happy to chat.
NOURISHING SOUPS + STEWS
Spicy Peanut-Turmeric Lentil Stew
This stew is super flavourful and full of healthy fats and plant-based protein. Feel free to freeze leftovers!
Lemon Parsley Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food. Since switching to a primarily plant-based diet, I've also made this with chickpeas and veggie broth instead and it's still wonderful. Don't be intimidated by homemade soup!
This stew is a favourite, since it uses mostly pantry staples and is incredibly warming and filling. Leftovers can be frozen in a large jar (with room for air at the top) or airtight container.
Obviously! This recipe is amazing. I like to replace half the chickpeas with extra veg, but you do you. There's also a fun video on how to make it!
Turmeric Butternut Curry with Zucchini Noodles
Turmeric = anti-inflammatory and super healing. You can make all of this ahead of time except the zucchini noodles - just add them (or regular noodles if you like) when you serve!
Spicy Peanut Stew with Butternut Squash + Chickpeas
Forever one of my favourites. This makes a giant batch, so either freeze a bunch or half the recipe if you live on your own!
I learned about kitchari in India and it is one of the most warming, simple and nutritious meals ever. Also very easy to make!
Creamy Lentils with Mushrooms + Kale
Laura from The First Mess is one of my favourites for plant-based inspiration. Check out her recipe index - they are all amazing!
Curried Carrot + Sweet Potato Soup
This is a blended soup and it's super rich and creamy. Plenty of fresh ginger adds a ton of flavour!
So easy, so yummy. I've been making this for years. Add whatever veggies and protein you have on hand!
HEARTY PASTAS + NOODLES
Red Curry Almond Butter Noodles with Veggies
So many of you have made and loved this recipe and I love that so much. It's creamy, salty, slightly spicy and so comforting. Make it if you haven't already!
Butternut Squash + Kale Linguine
Pasta is always a good idea. This one includes hearty squash plus protein- and Omega-rich walnuts to make it a well-rounded meal.
Duh. Look how gorgeous these are! Bon Appetit can do no wrong.
Soba Noodles with Peanut Sauce
Peanut sauce and noodles with forever be a favourite combo. This is also delicious cold, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it through the week.
Vegan Butternut Squash Mac 'n Cheese
Obsessed with this vegan mac n' cheese, which is more like a macaroni with the most amazing butternut squash sauce. Sauce can be made ahead of time, and even frozen to store for longer!
Such a good vegetarian pasta recipe!
COZY TREATS TO BAKE
Now is the perfect time to bake! Below are some of my favourite treats, all made with healthier alternative ingredients like coconut oil, coconut sugar, nut butter and gluten-free flours.
Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies
The Best Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookies
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
The Best Almond Butter Granola
BANANA BREADS
Lots of options whether you're vegan, gluten-free or paleo.
Vegan + Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Paleo Coconut Cashew Banana Bread
Chocolate Chunk Coconut Banana Bread
OTHER YUMMY THINGS!
These pancakes are a classic and one of the most popular recipes on my site. Make a big batch ahead of time (in the blender - they're so easy!) and then warm them up in the toaster or oven for a healthy, filling morning treat.
Now is the time for cozy lattes! This one is a real treat and perfect for getting in some healthy fats in the morning.
If you want a fun and slightly more lengthy baking challenge, try making homemade cinnamon rolls! They are SO delicious and worth every second. Below is a vegan recipe that I love and have made a few times, but there are plenty of others on the Internet!
