10 Culinary Tips During COVID (or anytime for that matter!)

Working with people from all walks of life, from individuals to groups small and large, I have learned (and continue to learn a lot). There was a time, decades ago, when I stood on my small soap box thinking that everyone could and would make the choice to eat healthfully. But as I gained smarts, from formal education yes, but most importantly from working on the front lines with underserved communities to children and adults from all walks of life and even those living with illness, quickly understanding that meeting people where they were at, celebrating what they could do and honoring what they couldn’t, was central to finding real connection with those I aimed to help. And it still is today. So, hopefully these tips will help as you try to shift your edible paradigm. Never forget that small changes make big differences!

1.   SPEAK UP
When shopping for food, don’t be shy to speak with your grocer if you have special dietary needs and can’t find something you are looking for. Kindly ask your grocer if he/she could put some items aside for you as stock comes in. Don’t be shy!

2.   SUBSTITUTE ESSENTIALS
If plain Greek yogurt is your calcium go-to and you can’t find it, substitute with another brand of plain, Greek or a non-Greek option. Or opt into vanilla. If you can’t find kale, go with collards or spinach. Fresh or frozen.

3.   BE FLEXIBLE
During uncertain times, it’s human nature to try to control what we can. What we eat is a go-to for many. However, food access right now is a real challenge for everyone.  We must be flexible with ingredients and items and use this time as an opportunity to try new things.

4.   COOK
If you are an avid cook, you know what to do. If you don’t like to cook, give it a try. Create a new healthy habit. Watch some Food TV, like Ellie’s Real Good Food, or find some cooking videos and dive in (check out my Pandemic Pantries blog). Turn music on if you please to create a soothing and fun atmosphere. And even make it a family affair.

5.   GO SIMPLE
For some this is a time to try that elaborate recipe in waiting. But for most, it’s 3 meals a day and snacks so simple is in order. Do dishes that come easy, have simple ingredients and don’t use a lot of pots and pans.

6.   PLANNING + FREEZING
In an effort to streamline, plan a day a week where you cook in quantity then freeze. Soups and stews, breaded chicken cutlets, meatballs. You will have food for the week. Just add a vegetable and starch like rice, quinoa or potato and your plate is balanced.

7.   SHARE RESPONSIBILITIES
Make cooking a family affair. Get help prepping, cooking, setting the table and cleaning. If you have kids, they will benefit from helping out in any way you deem necessary.

8.   CELEBRATE GRATITUDE
Although times are difficult for everyone, celebrating gratitude daily is important. Kick off a Mindful Eating Mantra when you sit down for dinner. Take turns sharing: (1) Your worst part of the day; (2) Your best part of the day; and (3) What you are grateful for.

9.   HOST A VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY
Many people are accustomed to eating out and sharing meals with friends and family. That does not have to stop. Set up a Zoom call with those you love. Cook together and eat together.

10. ORDER IN
Many restaurants are providing take-out food. Put your safety first of course but use the resources of your local food economy to stay nourished. Never forget that supporting local businesses is critical during this time.

If you want some great advice on organizing your kitchen (and keeping it organized), check this out.