As a child, I loved fall, but these days it often means too many activities in too little time. The last thing I want to think about when I get home is what to cook for dinner, so I'm a perfect candidate for make-ahead meals. You know the concept. You prepare a big batch of something and freeze it in individual meals, then just thaw and cook a meal when you need one. I first tried this years ago, but most of the recipes were heavy on the cream of mushroom soup--not a good fit for my household. I've continued to try each new make-ahead-cookery book, and my favorite is Fix, Freeze, Feast by Kati Neville and Lindsay Tkacsik.
One thing that sets this book apart is that their recipes are based on quantities that you would find in your local warehouse store. Rather than standing in the meat section trying to work out how many packages will give you enough chicken breasts for the recipe, you're already armed with a list that is in warehouse-tray multiples. As someone who wants to spend as little time shopping as possible, I fully appreciate this feature.
The recipes themselves are straightforward, with only a few steps and generally not requiring unusual ingredients. If you aren't sure whether you'll like a recipe, it is usually simple to try it out by making only one meal. It is also easy to adapt the recipes to allow for food allergies and family preferences. Are you a fan of cream of mushroom soup? They have a great recipe for that. The authors write in a clear, friendly style that is a pleasure to read and inspires confidence.
While others may spend Labor Day enjoying one last outing, I'll be freezing batches of chicken curry and snickerdoodles, thanks to Fix, Freeze, Feast.
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