Scratch Cooking: Valuable & Extensive Guide For Free

Scratch cooking offers a refreshing return to wholesome, homemade meals in an era where convenience often trumps quality. Scratch cooking involves preparing food from raw, unprocessed ingredients, allowing complete control over what goes into each dish. This method promotes healthier eating and fosters a deeper connection with the food we consume and the traditions we uphold.

Imagine walking into a kitchen filled with the comforting aromas of a meal made from scratch—freshly baked bread, simmering soups, and hearty casseroles, all prepared with love and care. Scratch cooking is more than just how you cook; it’s a lifestyle choice that emphasizes quality over convenience, sustainability over waste, and authenticity over artificiality.

This article will deepen our understanding of scratch cooking, its definition, the essential elements needed for a scratch cook’s kitchen, and practical tips to help you embrace this rewarding practice. We hope to provide you with inspiration and knowledge to start cooking from scratch and create delicious meals that nourish both body and soul.

What is Scratch Cooking?

Scratch cooking is the practice of preparing meals using raw, unprocessed ingredients rather than relying on pre-packaged or ready-made foods. This method emphasizes using fresh, whole foods, giving home cooks control over the ingredients and techniques used in their cooking. The term “scratch” refers to the starting point of these meals, often from the basics, such as flour, fresh vegetables, and raw meats, rather than processed or pre-prepared components.

Historically, scratch cooking was the norm in households worldwide, as convenience foods were not as readily available as they are today. Families relied on seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create nutritious and flavorful meals. Over time, as the pace of life increased and convenience foods became more accessible, many people moved away from scratch cooking in favor of quicker, easier options.

However, scratch cooking is experiencing a resurgence, driven by a growing awareness of health, sustainability, and the desire for authentic, flavorful food. This method of cooking offers numerous benefits, including:

1.  Healthier Meals: By cooking from scratch, you can avoid the preservatives, additives, and excessive amounts of salt and sugar often found in processed foods. You have complete control over what goes into your meals, allowing you to create healthier, more balanced dishes.
2. Cost Savings: While it may seem that cooking from scratch is more expensive, it can be more cost-effective in the long run. Bulk purchasing of staples like grains, beans, and spices, combined with the ability to use leftovers creatively, can significantly reduce your grocery bills.
3. Environmental Impact: Scratch cooking can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Buying whole foods, especially in bulk, reduces plastic waste and packaging. Additionally, cooking at home typically results in less food waste, as you can tailor portion sizes to your needs.
4. Enhanced Flavor and Quality: Meals from scratch often taste better and have more complex flavors than their processed counterparts. The freshness of ingredients and the ability to customize recipes to suit your tastes result in more satisfying and enjoyable meals.
5. Connection to Food and Tradition: Cooking from scratch can help you reconnect with food traditions and cultural heritage. It encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the effort and skill involved in meal preparation, fostering a deeper connection to your food.

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Essential Elements of Scratch Cooking

Scratch cooking, while rewarding, requires some essential elements to make the process efficient and enjoyable.

These elements include a mix of quality ingredients, basic tools, and fundamental principles to guide you in the kitchen.

Start with what you have! You can build your pantry, cutlery, storage containers, and gadgets as you go, ensuring you only acquire what you love and will use.

We have some ideas to get started!

Quality Ingredients

The cornerstone of scratch cooking is the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you should focus on:

• Fresh Produce: Fruits and vegetables should be as fresh as possible. Locally sourced, seasonal produce often offers the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Whole Grains: Incorporate a variety of grains, such as rice, quinoa, barley, and oats. These serve as the foundation for many dishes.
• Proteins: Choose fresh cuts of meat, poultry, fish, or plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu.
• Dairy and Alternatives: Use fresh dairy products or alternatives like almond, soy, and coconut milk.
• Spices and Herbs: Stock up on various dried spices and fresh herbs. They add flavor and depth to your dishes.

Basic Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools can make scratch cooking much more manageable. Essential kitchen equipment includes:

• Knives: A good set of sharp knives is crucial. At a minimum, you should have a chef’s, paring, and bread knife.
• Cutting Boards: Use separate boards for raw meats and vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.
• Cookware: Invest in quality pots, pans, and baking dishes. Cast iron skillets, non-stick pans, and a good stockpot are great starters.
• Mixing Bowls: A variety of sizes will help with different cooking tasks.
• Utensils: Wooden spoons, spatulas, whisks, tongs, and a ladle are essential.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistency and success in your recipes.
• Blender or Food Processor: These appliances can simplify tasks like making sauces, soups, and doughs.

Key Principles of Scratch Cooking

To master scratch cooking, keep these core principles in mind:

• Plan Ahead: Meal planning and prepping ingredients in advance can save time and reduce stress. Consider setting aside time each week to plan your meals and prep basics like chopping vegetables or cooking grains.
• Organize Your Space: A clean, organized kitchen makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Keep your workspace tidy and your tools within easy reach.
• Cook in Batches: Batch cooking is a great way to ensure you always have homemade meals. Cook large portions of staples like beans, rice, and soups, and freeze leftovers for later use.
• Learn Basic Techniques: Mastering fundamental cooking techniques such as roasting, sautéing, and baking will significantly expand your culinary repertoire. Practice makes perfect, so don’t fear experimenting and learning from mistakes.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning and adjusting flavors throughout the cooking process helps to ensure the best possible outcome. Taste your food regularly and make adjustments as needed.
• Use What You Have: Scratch cooking encourages creativity. Use ingredients you already have to avoid waste and save money. This can lead to delicious, unexpected combinations.
• Utilize coupons & Sales: look over your local grocery store’s weekly ads. See what’s on sale and consider combinations you could make. For instance, you can buy a rotisserie chicken for dinner one night and then use leftovers for chicken enchiladas and chicken noodle soup.

Sustainability and Mindfulness

• Minimize Waste: Be mindful of how much food you prepare and find creative ways to use leftovers. Composting kitchen scraps can also reduce waste.
• Eco-Friendly Choices: Store your food in reusable containers, bags, and wraps. Buying bulk and choosing items with minimal packaging can also support a more sustainable kitchen.

With practice, you’ll find that cooking from scratch produces tastier, healthier meals and brings a sense of accomplishment and connection to the food you create. Some of your meals may turn out differently than you planned, but each is a chance to learn something new about ingredients, flavors, and techniques. It will be worth the practice!

Scratch Cooking Aids

The right tools make cooking easier, but there are always many ways to accomplish any task. Work with what you have and add or upgrade as you go along. Remember this list when visiting thrift stores or garage sales or adding items to your wishlist. Prioritize items that you will use frequently or have that have multiple uses.

Essential Kitchen Tools

1. High-Quality Knives

• Chef’s Knife: The kitchen’s workhorse is ideal for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
• Paring Knife: Perfect for peeling and detailed work.
• Bread Knife: Essential for slicing bread without crushing it.

2. Cutting Boards

• Wooden Boards: Gentle on knives and ideal for vegetables and bread. Should not go in dishwasher to preserve the integrity of the board. Can also be used as a trivet to protect your table or countertop from hot pots and pans.
• Plastic or Rubbery Boards: Suitable for raw meats to prevent cross-contamination. Can go in dishwasher to be sanitized.

3. Mixing Bowls

• A set of different sizes to handle various mixing tasks, from whisking eggs to tossing salads.

4. Measuring Tools

• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Kitchen Scale: Useful for baking and recipes requiring precise measurements.

5. Cookware

• Cast Iron Skillet: Versatile and retains heat well, perfect for searing and baking.
• Saucepan: Essential for making sauces, boiling pasta, and simmering soups.
• Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for large batches of soup, stew, and homemade stock.
• Baking Sheets: For roasting vegetables, making sheet pan meals, baking some breads, and baking cookies.

6. Utensils

• Wooden Spoons: Great for stirring and won’t scratch your cookware.
• Spatulas: Both metal and silicone varieties for different cooking tasks.
• Whisks: For blending ingredients smoothly.
• Tongs: These are for flipping and grabbing hot items easily.

Small Appliances

1. Blender

• Perfect for smoothies, soups, and sauces. A high-powered blender can even make nut butters and dough.

2. Food Processor

• A versatile tool for chopping vegetables, making dough, and blending ingredients quickly.

3. Stand Mixer

• Essential for baking, a stand mixer can handle everything from whipping cream to kneading bread dough. An electric hand mixer will be able to tackle the lighter jobs such as whipping cream and mixing quick bread ingredients.

4. Slow Cooker or Instant Pot

• Great for hands-off cooking. Ideal for stews, braises, and soups that benefit from slow, consistent heat.

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Specialized Tools

1. Mandoline Slicer

• Excellent for slicing vegetables uniformly and quickly.

2. Microplane Grater

• Perfect for grating cheese, zesting citrus, and even grating spices like nutmeg.

3. Mortar and Pestle

• Ideal for grinding spices, making pesto, and other small-batch tasks. Really great for releasing aromas and oils from fresh ingredients.

4. Salad Spinner

• Helps to quickly dry greens, making them ready for salads and sautéing.

Storage Solutions

1. Glass Jars

• For storing grains, beans, and spices. They keep ingredients fresh and visible.

2. Reusable Containers

• For storing leftovers and prepped ingredients. Look for options that are microwave and freezer-safe.

3. Beeswax Wraps

• An eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, perfect for covering bowls and wrapping sandwiches.

Organizational Aids

1. Spice Rack

• Keep your spices organized and easily accessible.

2. Pantry Organizers

• Use baskets, bins, and shelf risers to keep your pantry tidy and ingredients within reach.

3. Label Maker

• It helps to clearly label and date your pantry items and leftovers, preventing waste.

By investing in these scratch cooking aids, you’ll find that preparing meals from scratch becomes more efficient, enjoyable, and manageable. Let your excitement determine which tools to purchase first (or at all)!

Pantry Staples for Scratch Cooking

A well-stocked pantry is the backbone of scratch cooking, providing the essential ingredients to whip up delicious meals. Here’s a comprehensive list of pantry staples that work well in a scratch kitchen.

If these ingredients are unfamiliar to you, I encourage you to try them out. Start with what you like and branch out once you have inspiration. Successful dishes encourage you to keep going, so start with what you already know you enjoy!

Grains and Pasta

1. Rice: White, brown, and specialty varieties like basmati and jasmine.
2. Pasta: Various shapes and sizes to suit different recipes.
3. Quinoa: A versatile and protein-rich grain.
4. Oats: Rolled oats for breakfast and baking.
5. Barley: Great for soups and stews.
6. Couscous: Quick-cooking and perfect for salads.

Flours and Baking Essentials

1. All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for baking and cooking.
2. Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier alternative.
3. Specialty Flours include almond, coconut, and chickpea flour for gluten-free and specialty baking.
4. Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents.
5. Yeast: For bread making.
6. Cornstarch: For thickening sauces and soups.

Beans and Lentils

1. Dried Beans: Black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, and navy beans.
2. Canned Beans: Convenient for quick meals; look for low-sodium options.
3. Lentils: Green, red, and brown varieties, which cook quickly and are highly nutritious.
4. Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): Versatile for salads, soups, and homemade hummus.

Oils and Vinegar

1. Olive Oil: Extra virgin for dressings and cooking.
2. Vegetable Oil: For frying and baking.
3. Coconut Oil: Great for baking and high-heat cooking.
4. Vinegar: Balsamic, apple cider, white wine, and rice vinegar for various culinary uses.

Sweeteners

1. Granulated Sugar: A staple for baking.
2. Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a rich flavor.
3. Honey: Natural sweetener with antibacterial properties.
4. Maple Syrup: Perfect for baking and breakfast dishes.

Spices and Herbs

1. Salt: Sea salt and kosher salt for cooking and seasoning.
2. Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
3. Dried Herbs: Oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, and bay leaves.
4. Spices: Cumin, paprika, chili powder, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Garlic and Onion Powder: Convenient for quick flavor boosts.

Canned and Jarred Goods

1. Tomatoes: Whole, diced, crushed, and paste for sauces and soups.
2. Broth and Stock: Chicken, beef, and vegetable varieties.
   1. Consider your freezer an extension of your pantry. You can make chicken stock from leftovers of other meals where chicken was used. Keep your vegetable scraps in a zip-top freezer bag to make broth once collecting enough scraps. Broth can be stored in individual portions for future use.
3. Coconut Milk: For curries and baking. Consider your personal preferences.
4. Tuna and Salmon: Canned fish for quick, protein-rich meals. Consider your personal preferences.

Nuts and Seeds

1. Almonds, Walnuts, and Pecans: Great for snacking, baking, and cooking.
2. Sunflower Seeds and Pumpkin Seeds: For salads, granola, and baking.
3. Chia Seeds and Flaxseeds: Nutrient-dense additions to smoothies and baked goods.

Condiments and Sauces

1. Soy Sauce: For Asian-inspired dishes.
2. Hot Sauce: Adds a kick to many recipes.
3. Mustard: Dijon and whole grain for dressings and marinades.
4. Nut Butters: Peanut butter and almond butter for snacking and baking.

Buying in Bulk

Buying pantry staples in bulk can significantly reduce plastic use and allow you to purchase only the amount you need, minimizing waste. Here are some tips for buying in bulk:

1. Eco-Friendly Storage: Use glass jars and reusable containers to store bulk items.
2. Labeling: Clearly label and date your bulk purchases to keep track of freshness.
3. Local Bulk Stores: Support local bulk food stores that offer a variety of grains, beans, nuts, and spices.

Benefits of Buying in Bulk

Buying in bulk offers numerous advantages that extend beyond cost savings. For those who practice scratch cooking, bulk purchasing can be an essential strategy for maintaining a well-stocked pantry while promoting sustainability and reducing waste. Here are some of the key benefits of buying in bulk:

Environmental Benefits

1. Reduction in Plastic Use: Bulk buying involves less packaging compared to individually wrapped items. By using reusable containers and bags, you can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste you generate.
2. Less Packaging Waste: Many bulk foods come in large quantities or dispensers that minimize the need for excessive packaging, further reducing your environmental footprint. Be sure to take your own containers to reduce packaging waste even further, if allowed.
3. Lower Carbon Footprint: Bulk foods often require less transportation and storage space, leading to a lower overall carbon footprint compared to pre-packaged items.

Economic Advantages

1. Cost Savings: Buying in larger quantities can lead to significant cost savings. Bulk items are typically cheaper per unit compared to their packaged counterparts.
2. Buying Only What You Need: Purchasing in bulk allows you to buy exactly the amount you need, reducing the chances of overbuying and wasting food.
3. Long-Term Investment: Stocking up on non-perishable items during sales or when prices are low can save you money in the long run.

Quality and Freshness

1. Fresher Ingredients: Bulk bins are often replenished regularly, ensuring that the ingredients you buy are fresh.
2. Custom Quantities: Buying in bulk means you can get the precise amount you need, which is particularly useful for items you use infrequently or in small quantities, ensuring freshness and reducing waste.

Convenience and Flexibility

1. Pantry Organization: Bulk buying encourages better organization. Clear containers can help you keep track of your inventory, making it easier to plan meals and avoid duplicate purchases.
2. Variety of Choices: Bulk sections often offer a wide variety of items, from grains and nuts to spices and dried fruits, allowing you to experiment with new ingredients without committing to large quantities of packaged goods.
3. Less Frequent Shopping: With a well-stocked bulk pantry, you can make fewer trips to the store, saving time and effort.

Health Benefits

1. Minimizing Additives: Bulk foods are often free from the additives and preservatives commonly found in pre-packaged items, leading to healthier eating habits.
2. Encouraging Whole Foods: Buying in bulk encourages the purchase of whole, unprocessed foods, which are integral to a healthy diet and scratch cooking.

Sustainability and Waste Reduction

1. Reduced Food Waste: Buying only the amount you need helps reduce food waste. You’re less likely to throw away excess food that you couldn’t use before it expired.
2. Supporting Sustainable Practices: Many bulk food stores and co-ops prioritize sustainability and support local producers, contributing to a more sustainable food system.

Tips for Buying in Bulk

1. Invest in Quality Storage: Use airtight glass jars, reusable bags, and containers to keep your bulk purchases fresh and organized.
2. Label and Date: Clearly label and date your bulk items to keep track of their shelf life and ensure you use the oldest products first.
3. Shop Locally: Support local bulk stores or co-ops that often offer a wider range of organic and sustainably sourced products.
4. Plan Ahead: Make a list of what you need before heading to the bulk section to avoid impulse purchases and ensure you’re getting the essentials.

Making Your Own Spice Blends

Creating your own spice blends is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your scratch cooking.

Homemade spice blends are free from preservatives and additives, allowing you to control the ingredients and tailor flavors to your preferences.

Here’s how you can start making your own spice blends, along with some basic recipes to try.

Benefits of Homemade Spice Blends

1. No Preservatives: Store-bought spice blends often contain preservatives and anti-caking agents. Homemade versions are all-natural.
2. Customization: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, dietary needs, and the specific flavors you enjoy.
3. Cost-Effective: Buying individual spices in bulk and blending them yourself can be more economical than purchasing pre-made blends.
4. Freshness: Homemade blends can be made in small batches, ensuring that they remain fresh and potent.
5. Versatility: Create unique blends for different cuisines and dishes, enhancing the flavors of your meals.

Basic Spice Blend Recipes

Here are some versatile spice blends to get you started:

1. Taco Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions: Mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight container.

2. Italian Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons dried basil
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions: Combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container.

3. Curry Powder

• 2 tablespoons ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard seed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions: Mix all spices together and store in an airtight container.

4. BBQ Rub

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions: Blend all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight container.

Tips for Making Spice Blends

1. Start with Small Batches: Begin with small quantities to experiment with flavors. Adjust the ratios based on your taste preferences.
2. Store Properly: Use airtight containers to keep your spice blends fresh. Glass jars are ideal as they don’t retain odors and keep moisture out.
3. Label and Date: Clearly label your spice blends with the name and date to track their freshness.
4. Use Fresh Spices: The quality of your blends depends on the freshness of your spices. Replace ground spices every 6-12 months for the best flavor.
5. Experiment and Customize: Don’t be afraid to tweak recipes. Add more of what you love and omit what you don’t.

How to Use Spice Blends

• Taco Seasoning: Perfect for ground meat, chicken, or vegetables. Add to soups and stews for a Mexican flair.
• Italian Seasoning: Use in pasta sauces, soups, and on roasted vegetables.
• Curry Powder: Great for making curry dishes, seasoning lentils, and adding to rice.
• BBQ Rub: Rub on meats before grilling or baking. Also excellent on roasted nuts and vegetables.

Practical Tips for Getting Started with Scratch Cooking

Beginning scratch cooking can be exciting and daunting. With the right strategies, you can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to help you get started with scratch cooking:

Plan and Prep Ahead

1. Meal Planning: Spend some time each week planning your meals. Create a menu that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. This helps you stay organized and reduces the temptation to opt for convenience foods. Looking at your local ads is a great way to spark creativity and save money: are chicken and broccoli on sale? You can make primavera, stir-fries, and more with these ingredients.
2. Grocery Lists: Make detailed grocery lists based on your meal plan. This ensures you buy only what you need, reducing food waste and saving money. If you can, lay out your list by store sections to avoid backtracking frustration. Remember your reusable grocery bags!
3. Prep in Advance: Dedicate a few hours each week to prep ingredients. Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and cook grains in advance to save time during the week.

Start with Simple Recipes

1. Beginner-Friendly Dishes: Start with simple recipes that have fewer ingredients and straightforward steps. As you gain confidence, gradually move on to more complex dishes.
2. Master the Basics: Focus on mastering basic cooking techniques like sautéing, roasting, boiling, and baking. These skills form the foundation for more advanced recipes.
3. Batch Cooking: Cook larger portions of staple foods like rice, beans, and soups, then portion and freeze them for quick, easy meals later.

Organize Your Kitchen

1. Clean and Tidy: Keep your kitchen clean and organized. A tidy workspace makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.
2. Accessible Tools: Arrange your kitchen tools and ingredients so they are easily accessible. Keep frequently used items like knives, cutting boards, and measuring cups within reach.
3. Label and Store: Use clear, labeled containers for storing ingredients and leftovers. This helps you quickly find what you need and keeps your pantry organized.

Make Use of Technology

1. Cooking Apps: Utilize cooking apps for recipes, meal planning, and grocery lists. Apps can provide inspiration and help you stay organized.
2. Online Tutorials: Watch online cooking tutorials to learn new techniques and get tips from experienced chefs. Visual guides can be particularly helpful for beginners.
3. Digital Timers: Use digital timers to keep track of cooking times and avoid overcooking or burning food.

Manage Your Time Efficiently

1. Cook Once, Eat Twice: This method is my absolute favorite! Make extra portions of meals so you can enjoy leftovers or pop the extra/second meal in the freezer for another meal. This is a great time-saver and ensures you always have homemade food on hand.
2. Use Slow Cookers and Instant Pots: These appliances can save time and effort by cooking meals slowly over several hours or quickly under pressure, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
3. Quick Recipes: Have a collection of quick and easy recipes for busy days. Dishes like stir-fries, salads, and pasta can be made in under 30 minutes. These are great for when you know you’ll have little time to prepare a meal, but don’t want to resort to take out food.

Incorporate Scratch Cooking into Your Lifestyle

1. Set Realistic Goals: Start small and gradually increase the amount of scratch cooking you do. Set realistic goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Enjoy the Process: Focus on the joy of cooking and the satisfaction of creating meals from scratch. Make it a fun and relaxing activity rather than a chore.
3. Involve Family and Friends: Cooking together can be a great way to bond and share the workload. To make it a social activity, involve family members or friends in meal preparation and clean-up. I have gotten together with a friend on a Saturday morning and made batches of freezer meals we could swap with each other and enjoy throughout the month.

Embrace Sustainability

1. Eco-Friendly Practices: Use reusable bags, containers, and wraps to reduce waste. Buy in bulk to minimize packaging and support local producers.
2. Compost Food Scraps: Start a compost bin for vegetable peelings and other kitchen scraps. This reduces waste and creates nutrient-rich compost for gardening.
3. Grow Your Own Herbs: Consider growing your own herbs at home. Fresh herbs enhance the flavor of your dishes and are always at hand when needed. Plus, you can dry your own herbs as well.

Since I began scratch cooking, I have enjoyed making new dishes. When I occasionally go out to eat or eat at a friend’s, I enjoy trying new things and then asking myself, “I wonder if I could make this.” It can be lots of fun trying to get good at a certain type of food, say Mexican or frittatas, then challenging yourself to another regional food or main ingredient.

Some people find a dish they like and become very content making that meal over and over. Many people assign dishes to a day of the week such as Taco Tuesdays or Friday Pizza nights. This can be useful and reliable if you don’t enjoy coming up with new ideas or dishes each week.

Ready To Start Cooking From Scratch?

Start by planning your next meal from scratch and experience the joy of creating something truly homemade. Share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive more tips, recipes, and inspiration directly to your inbox.

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