Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Tasty Tuesday

As I continue to reflect on all that I have, I realize how much I waste. My complaints in America are basic: my house is a mess, my kids are in too many activities, wish my girls didn't have to share a too small bedroom, etc.

So, in thinking of all I have, I decided I really need to be much more resourceful in how I spend my food and time. We have a family goal of sit down dinners. I also love to try new recipes. Can be tricky with two working parents and busy schedules. Here is my tip for the week...

Cook once for the week: I usually cook on Saturday or Sundays. Here was last week's menu:
  • Roast turkey, potatoes, and green beans
With the left over turkey, I made turkey stock and then shredded the meat. Here was the result:
  • Turkey divan with homemade applesauce
  • Turkey and stuffing casserole
  • Turkey noodle soup
Knowing that the family would be sick of turkey, I also found a recipe for "brown bag burritos". We put together 20 burritos (homemade refried beans, browned hamburger, enchilada sauce, and some spices). We then wrapped and froze the burritos. These are excellent to heat for a quick family dinner. Finally, I made three lasagnas and froze them.

So, after one day's work we had family dinners for one week (and then some!) We were able to provide some meals for friends, too.

This week we continued the trend, but we wanted to try some new recipes and had lots of fresh fruits and veggies on hand... Here is the week:
  • Turkey sausage, sauerkraut, sweet potatoes, sauteed spinach
  • Roast, potatoes, carrots, salad
  • Beef and noodles (leftover beef and stock)
  • Spaghetti (homemade meatballs- made and frozen on Sunday), salad, homemade applesauce
  • homemade eggrolls
  • bbq chicken legs, rice, peas
  • bbq chicken wraps (leftover chicken and rice)
So... my challenge to you is this: Do you want more time with your family? Do you want to make use of your pantry items and incorporate fresh fruits and veggies? Interested in family dinners with low stress on the family?

Try cooking one meal and "remaking" it for a later meal (like the roast or bbq chicken) OR cook once for the week (like the turkey).

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