the_information_nexus/food_related/Modern_Simple_Cooking.md

Modern Simple Cooking

Key Principles

1. Accessible Ingredients: Focus on staples readily available at major US retailers like Walmart and Costco.
2. Health-Conscious: Incorporating modern nutritional knowledge without sacrificing flavor.
3. Basic Ingredients: Emphasis on using basic proteins, common vegetables, fruits, nuts etc.
4. Simplicity: Utilizing straightforward cooking techniques suitable for home cooks.
5. Culturally Inspired: Drawing inspiration from global cuisines while using accessible ingredients.
6. Time-Efficient: Balancing flavorful meals with practicality for everyday cooking.

Common Ingredients

Proteins

• Chicken (whole, breasts, thighs)
• Ground beef
• Pork (chops, tenderloin)
• Salmon and tilapia
• Eggs
• Canned tuna and salmon
• Tofu
• Beans (canned and dried)

Vegetables

• Broccoli and cauliflower
• Carrots
• Onions and garlic
• Bell peppers
• Spinach and mixed greens
• Potatoes (regular and sweet)
• Tomatoes (fresh and canned)

Fruits

• Apples and oranges
• Bananas
• Berries (fresh and frozen)
• Lemons and limes

Grains and Starches

• Rice (white and brown)
• Pasta
• Quinoa
• Bread (whole grain and white)

Dairy and Alternatives

• Milk (dairy and plant-based)
• Yogurt
• Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella)

Nuts and Seeds

• Almonds and walnuts
• Sunflower and pumpkin seeds

Pantry Staples

• Olive oil and vegetable oil
• Vinegars (balsamic, apple cider)
• Soy sauce
• Spices (salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, etc.)
• Flour
• Sugar

Cooking Techniques

• One-Pot Meals: Minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Sheet Pan Dinners: Easy, hands-off cooking method for complete meals.
• Slow Cooker / Instant Pot: Utilizing convenient appliances for effortless cooking.
• Batch Cooking: Preparing larger quantities for meal prep and leftovers.
• Simple Sautéing and Roasting: Basic techniques for enhancing flavors.

Meal Planning

• Flexible Recipes: Creating base recipes that can be easily modified with available ingredients.
• Seasonal Adaptations: Adjusting meals based on what's currently abundant and affordable.
• Balanced Plate Approach: Ensuring a mix of proteins, vegetables, and whole grains in each meal.

Sustainability Practices

• Minimal Waste: Utilizing ingredients fully and repurposing leftovers.
• Bulk Buying: Taking advantage of Costco's large formats to reduce packaging and trips.
• Freezer-Friendly: Properly storing bulk ingredients and prepared meals.