Whether you’re living alone or taking care of your entire family, there is no denying that striking a balance between office work and household chores (even with the help) isn’t an easy feat. However, having a plan and working smart is key when it comes to taking care of that appetite. Our solution? One-pot meals that are quick, simple, and can be done between those conference calls!
Check out three quick one-pot meal recipes that you can make during a busy WFH day:
1. Moong Dal Khichdi
Prep time: 2 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Serves: 2
Comfort food at its best, moong dal khichdi scores high on a wholesome and nutritious meal. A heavy dish which is light on your stomach, this is perfect for days when you are amidst a hectic schedule.
You need:
• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ¾ cup moong dal, rinsed
• ¾ cup rice, rinsed
• Salt, to taste
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• A pinch of asafoetida (optional)
• 4 cups water
Method
Step 1: In a pressure cooker, heat ghee over medium flame. Once hot, add cumin seeds and when they start to splutter, add rice, moong dal along with salt, turmeric powder and asafetida. Add four cups water and mix well.
Step 2: Once everything is mixed properly, close the lid of the pressure cooker. Place the vent on it. Cook the khichdi till the whistle goes off four times. Set it aside for a bit to cool down.
Step 3: Once cooled, transfer the ingredients to a serving bowl and mix well.
Step 4: Serve hot, as it is or with a side of pickle and papad (savoury wafers).
Tip: You can replace the rice with brown rice or quinoa.
2. Beans And Cauliflower Rice
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Serves: 2
Healthy from the word go, this recipe is packed with all the protein you need to get through a busy day as you work from home. What’s more, this is also vegan and gluten-free.
You need:
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup onion, chopped
• ½ cup capsicum, chopped
• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped
• 450 g kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tsp ground cumin/ cumin powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp granulated garlic/ garlic seasoning
• 1 tsp chilli powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
Method
Step 1: Heat a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and onion. Cook for about two minutes or till the onions turn slightly translucent. Add capsicum and cook for three to five minutes until vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Process the chopped cauliflower heads in a food processor for 30 seconds to a minute, till you get fine grains.
Step 3: Add the cauliflower rice, beans, and seasonings to the pan. Stir well until everything is combined. Cook for about seven to ten minutes, until cauliflower is tender.
Step 4: Once done, take it off the gas. Mix it again before serving.
3. Spicy Vegetable And Quinoa Curry
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Serves: 2
Another dish which scores high on the health factor. You can have this heavy dish as it is, or with roti or naan.
You need:
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 tbsp Madras curry paste/ Tandoori masala/ Red chilli powder
• 1 ltr milk, heated
• 750 grams frozen mixed vegetable
• 175 grams quinoa, rinsed
• Salt, to taste (optional)
Method
Step 1: In a large saucepan, add the onion and the curry paste with a splash of water, and let it simmer for five minutes, stirring it occasionally.
Step 2: Add the vegetables and quinoa, and slowly stir in the milk. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer again for about 10 minutes, until the quinoa is cooked.
Step 4: Check the seasonings, add salt if needed. Serve hot.