Here's how to batch cook effectively and take the stress out of meal times

Looking for time-saving, cost-cutting ways to feed your family? Batch cooking not only helps you to reduce waste but the planning ahead will enable to you spend precious time with your nearest and dearest.

It’s also a great way to help friends and neighbours in need who might be unable to cook for themselves or just need a little pick-me-up in this period of social isolation.

Here are our top tips for making batch cooking easy, so you’re never left wondering what you’ll serve up for the evening meal.

Pick family favourites

Make simple dishes you know the whole household will enjoy as this ensures whatever you pick out of the freezer will be a hit with everyone. If you’ve got a fussy eater in the family, batch cooking is a blessing as you can prepare their favourite meals several days in advance and you’ll never run out of something to serve.

Use a base sauce

Make life easier by picking dishes that can be made with the same starter sauce. You can freeze your sauce in small portions ready to defrost as and when you need it, and don’t forget that one sauce can be used for a huge variety of dishes.

A basic tomato sauce is great for lasagne, chilli, bolognese, cassoulet, curry or even tomato soup whilst white sauce can be flavoured with veggies, herbs, cheese or even white wine for macaroni cheese, vegetable bakes, fish pie and coq au vin blanc.

Keep portions in proportion

For savoury dishes you can multiply recipe quantities easily, but watch your spices and seasoning to prevent overpowering the flavour of your ingredients. You can’t remove seasoning but you can add it gradually. Taste your food regularly and season only when it needs it.