Cooking at home has seen a remarkable surge in popularity over the past couple of years, and there’s no denying that the pandemic played a significant role in this culinary revolution. With more time spent indoors and a desire to embrace new hobbies, people turned to their kitchens as a source of comfort, creativity, and nourishment. But when it comes to cooking, we all have different skill levels and preferences. So, which dishes are the easiest to whip up in 2023? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors that determine dish ease and reveal our top five picks for hassle-free meals that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, we’ll share some valuable tips for beginners who want to conquer the kitchen with confidence. Get ready to stir-fry your way into deliciousness – let’s dive right in!

The rise of home cooking during the pandemic

As the world came to a screeching halt during the pandemic, our homes transformed into more than just shelters. They became havens of creativity, solace, and nourishment. With restaurants closing their doors and takeout options limited, people turned to their kitchens like never before. The rise of home cooking became a global phenomenon.

Suddenly, recipes that had been collecting dust in cookbooks were given new life. From banana bread experiments to gourmet feasts whipped up from pantry staples, individuals discovered the joy and fulfillment that comes with preparing meals from scratch.

But it wasn’t just about filling bellies; it was also about finding a sense of control amidst uncertainty. Cooking provided a comforting routine in an ever-changing world. It allowed us not only to nourish ourselves but also to express our creativity through flavors and presentation.

Moreover, cooking at home offered numerous benefits beyond mere sustenance. Families bonded over shared meal preparation experiences while trying out new recipes together. Couples found delight in creating romantic candlelit dinners for two without leaving their homes.

This newfound appreciation for home cooking has continued even as restrictions have eased. People have realized that they can recreate restaurant-quality dishes right in their own kitchens – saving money along the way! Cooking has become an empowering act of self-care, allowing individuals to prioritize health and well-being by choosing fresh ingredients and controlling portion sizes.

The pandemic may have disrupted many aspects of daily life, but it also sparked a culinary revolution within our very own four walls. Home cooking isn’t just a trend; it’s here to stay as we rediscover the joys of gathering around homemade meals with loved ones.

Factors to consider when determining the ease of a dish

Factors to Consider When Determining the Ease of a Dish

When it comes to cooking, everyone has different levels of skill and experience in the kitchen. Some people thrive on complex recipes with multiple steps and techniques, while others prefer quick and easy dishes that can be whipped up in no time. So how do you determine the ease of a dish? Here are some factors to consider:

1. Preparation Time: One important factor is the amount of time it takes to prepare the ingredients for a recipe. If a dish requires minimal chopping, slicing, or prepping, it’s likely to be easier for beginners.

2. Cooking Techniques: Different cooking techniques require varying levels of skill. For example, grilling or baking may be easier than sautéing or braising for those who are just starting out.

3. Number of Ingredients: The complexity of a dish often depends on the number of ingredients required. Recipes with fewer ingredients tend to be simpler and more beginner-friendly.

4. Recipe Instructions: Clear and concise instructions make all the difference when tackling a new recipe. Look for recipes that provide step-by-step guidance without overwhelming jargon.

5. Equipment Needed: Consider whether you have all the necessary equipment before attempting a recipe. Dishes that require specialized tools might not be as beginner-friendly.

By taking these factors into account, you can evaluate which dishes will be easier for you personally based on your own skills and preferences in the kitchen!

Top 5 easiest dishes to cook in 2023:

Top 5 easiest dishes to cook in 2023:

A. One-pot pasta:
One-pot pasta is a game-changer for busy individuals looking for a quick and hassle-free meal. Simply throw all the ingredients into one pot, let it simmer, and voila! You have a delicious and satisfying dish ready to be devoured. The best part? Minimal cleanup required!

B. Sheet pan meals:
Sheet pan meals are perfect for those who want an easy yet flavorful dinner option. Just arrange your protein, vegetables, and seasonings on a sheet pan, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. In no time at all, you’ll have a wholesome meal with minimal effort.

C. Instant Pot soups:
The Instant Pot revolutionized cooking by making it quicker and easier than ever before. Soups are particularly well-suited for this handy appliance – simply toss in your favorite ingredients, set the timer, and let the pressure cooker work its magic.

D. Slow cooker chili:
If you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours slaving over the stove, slow cooker chili is your answer! Just combine ground meat (or beans for vegetarians), spices, veggies, broth, and let it cook low and slow while you go about your day.

E. Stir-fry dishes:
Stir-fry dishes are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With just a hot skillet or wok and some fresh ingredients like veggies or meats of choice along with sauces or seasonings of preference; stir-frying can create impressive flavors within minutes.

These five dishes offer simplicity without compromising on taste or nutrition—a winning combination for any home cook short on time but eager to create mouthwatering meals.

A. One-pot pasta

One-pot pasta has become a lifesaver for busy home cooks everywhere. This simple yet satisfying dish requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it the perfect choice for those looking to whip up a quick and delicious meal.

The beauty of one-pot pasta lies in its simplicity. Just toss all your ingredients into a single pot – pasta, sauce, vegetables, and protein – and let them cook together until everything is perfectly tender and infused with flavor. No need to worry about boiling multiple pots of water or timing different components just right.

Not only does one-pot pasta save you time in the kitchen, but it also means fewer dishes to clean up afterwards. With everything cooked in one pot, there’s no need for extra bowls or pans cluttering up your sink.

Another great thing about this dish is its versatility. You can customize your one-pot pasta with whatever ingredients you have on hand or prefer. Whether you’re craving a classic marinara sauce with sausage or want to go vegetarian with roasted veggies and pesto, the possibilities are endless.

So why not give one-pot pasta a try? It’s an easy and delicious way to satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, who doesn’t love having fewer dishes to wash?

B. Sheet pan meals

Sheet pan meals have become a go-to option for busy individuals looking to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort. These easy-to-make dishes involve placing all the ingredients on a single sheet pan and letting the oven do the work. The result? A flavorful and satisfying meal that requires little hands-on time.

The beauty of sheet pan meals lies in their versatility. You can choose from a variety of proteins, such as chicken, fish, or tofu, and pair them with an assortment of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or potatoes. Simply toss everything in your favorite seasonings or marinades, spread them out evenly on the sheet pan, and pop it into the oven.

One of the main advantages of sheet pan meals is their simplicity when it comes to clean-up. With just one dish to wash afterwards, you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than scrubbing pots and pans.

Not only are sheet pan meals convenient and efficient, but they also offer endless opportunities for creativity in the kitchen. You can experiment with different flavor combinations by incorporating various spices or sauces into your recipe. Additionally, you can customize these dishes based on dietary preferences or restrictions.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or simply want to simplify your weeknight dinners without sacrificing taste, sheet pan meals are undoubtedly one of the easiest dishes to prepare in 2023. So grab your favorite ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s get cooking!

C. Instant Pot soups

Instant Pot soups have become a favorite among home cooks for their ease of preparation and delicious flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of pressure cooking, you can have a comforting bowl of soup on the table in no time.

One of the reasons Instant Pot soups are so easy to make is because they require minimal hands-on effort. After sautéing some aromatics like onions and garlic, all you need to do is add your choice of vegetables, broth or stock, and seasonings. Set the Instant Pot timer, sit back, and let it work its magic.

Another great thing about making soups in an Instant Pot is that it allows for quick flavor development. The high-pressure environment helps infuse all the herbs, spices, and veggies together in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional stovetop methods.

The versatility of Instant Pots also makes them perfect for trying out different soup recipes. From classic favorites like chicken noodle soup to exotic options like Thai coconut curry soup, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds.

Not only are Instant Pot soups easy to cook but they’re also incredibly satisfying. There’s nothing quite like coming home after a long day to find a piping hot bowl of homemade soup waiting for you. It warms not just your body but also your soul.

So if you’re looking for an easy yet flavorful dish to try in 2023, give Instant Pot soups a whirl! You’ll be amazed at how effortless it can be to create restaurant-quality bowls right in your own kitchen with this handy appliance by your side.