Winter days are short, dark, and cold in much of the country. In response, your family is likely craving comfort food like casseroles, creamy dishes, and hearty stews. Finding the time to make nourishing meals can be challenging with busy work and activity schedules, but don’t let comforting recipes take a back burner. Instead, tackle the winter meal blahs with a meal plan, complete with ingredient lists and time estimates that fit any schedule. MEAL PLANNING for Winter Nights
INVENTORY AND ASSESS
Start by taking an inventory of what’s already in the house, especially if you have fresh produce that needs to be used up before it goes bad. Similarly, list the meats you have in the freezer so you know what you have to work with. Then peruse the pantry for staples you use often. On a digital spreadsheet, piece of paper, or notes section of your phone, list your family’s favorite meals. These are meals that might vary slightly but that you make several times each month. Next to your meals, jot down an estimated preparation time. This makes it easier to decide which meals you’ll make on what days. Also, be sure to take into account how many mouths you’re feeding. Not every family member will be home every night, so you can cut back the quantity on some nights. Regardless of how your family size adds up, make note of how many servings you’re planning for.
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