For students in a new location away from home, here are some basic cooking and eating tips to help you navigate your new environment:
- Learn the Basics: Start by learning some basic cooking skills like boiling water, cooking rice, pasta, and eggs. These are the foundation for many simple meals.
- Plan Your Meals: Take some time to plan your meals for the week. This will help you make sure you have all the ingredients you need and avoid last-minute stress.
- Keep it Simple: Stick to simple recipes with few ingredients. Look for recipes that require minimal cooking equipment and time.
- Stock Your Pantry: Keep your pantry stocked with staple ingredients like rice, pasta, canned beans, canned tomatoes, spices, and cooking oil. This will make it easier to throw together a meal with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
- Buy in Bulk: Buying in bulk can save you money in the long run. Look for bulk bins at the grocery store where you can buy grains, nuts, and dried fruit.
- Use Leftovers: Don’t let leftovers go to waste. Get creative and use them to make new meals. Leftover rice can be turned into fried rice, and leftover vegetables can be added to omelets or salads.
- Meal Prep: Spend some time on the weekends prepping ingredients for the week ahead. Chop vegetables, cook grains, and portion out snacks to make mealtime during the week a breeze.
- Healthy Snacks: Keep healthy snacks on hand like fruits, nuts, yogurt, and whole-grain crackers. This will help you avoid reaching for unhealthy options when you’re hungry between meals.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and focused. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to class and refill it regularly.
- Balance Your Diet: Aim for a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Don’t forget to treat yourself occasionally, but try to make healthy choices most of the time.
- Explore Local Cuisine: Take advantage of being in a new location by exploring the local cuisine. Try new foods and flavors to expand your culinary horizons.
- Budget Wisely: Stick to a budget when grocery shopping and eating out. Look for sales, use coupons, and consider cooking meals at home instead of eating out frequently.
- Practice Food Safety: Wash your hands before cooking and eating, and make sure to properly store and handle perishable foods to avoid foodborne illness.
- Enjoy the Experience: Cooking and eating should be enjoyable experiences. Don’t stress too much about making perfect meals – focus on experimenting, learning, and having fun in the kitchen.
Also, from another source:
Cooking on a budget and unfamiliar kitchen can be daunting, but no worries! Here are some basic tips to get you started:
Stocking Up:
- Pantry Staples: Build a base of versatile ingredients like rice, pasta, beans (lentils, chickpeas), canned tomatoes, and some basic spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili flakes). These can be mixed and matched for countless meals.
- Fresh Produce: Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables – they’re usually cheaper and tastier. Start with things that last longer like apples, potatoes, and onions.
Planning & Shopping:
- Meal Plan: Plan your meals for the week to avoid impulse buys and food waste. Make a grocery list based on your plan.
- Shop Smart: Look for store brands and generic products. Utilize student discounts if available.
Cooking Hacks:
- One-Pot Wonders: Master “one-pot” or “sheet-pan” meals where everything cooks together. Saves time and cleaning!
- Leftovers are Lifesavers: Cook a bigger batch and save leftovers for another meal.
- Microwave Magic: Don’t underestimate the microwave! Steam veggies, cook rice, or even scramble eggs – all lifesavers for busy students.
Eating Well:
- Portion Control: It’s easy to overeat, especially when stressed. Use smaller plates and focus on including protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Fruits for Snacks: Keep fruits around for healthy snacking.
- Don’t Skip Meals: Regular meals will keep your energy levels up and prevent unhealthy cravings.
Bonus Tip:
- Buddy Up! Cooking with a friend can be more fun and save money by splitting ingredients. You can also share leftovers.
Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be fancy. Start simple, have fun, and enjoy the delicious (and affordable) meals you create!