09
Jan

What’s for dinner, Mom?

Posted in Kitchens + Baths, Recipes

I’ve been rather bored in the kitchen lately and I’ve heard from several of my mommy friends that they are feeling the same.  I just haven’t felt inspired to make a 4 course meal for my family.  We all have our preferences and it’s really deflating to hear “yuck” when you put in the effort.  My girls used to eat almost everything I put in front of them.  Sushi, curry, soups and pasta dishes…not anymore.  Any tips?

B L (slow roasted) T by not without salt

A friend of mine makes a kid friendly dinner for her girls and then sits down for an adult friendly version with just her and her husband. Part of me loves this idea but the other part would miss our family meal times even if they’re yucky.  Now, that my husband has officially moved to Florida, he’s left us behind to finish off all the food in the freezer and the pantry.  So, things might start to get interesting when my ingredients start dwindling.  Rice, rice and rice, anyone?  How are you feeling these days in the kitchen?

Holly Farrell via Absolutely Beautiful Things

As much as I love looking through them, I don’t use cookbooks nearly enough.  I think I should stock up on a couple for some new recipes.  If you aren’t that into cookbooks, there is always Pinterest and I’ve also discovered Foodgawker.  It’s a great way to become inspired in the kitchen or at least come away hungry.

 1.  Trader Joe’s  2.  Campfire Cookery  3.  Seasons

Frau Haselmayer via Kitchenisms

1.  My Father’s Daughter  2.  Great Food Fast

Once we’re settled in to our new life in Florida, I’d love to sign up for cooking classes.  It would be fantastic if I could bring along the girls because they LOVE to help me in the kitchen and it would be a fun thing to do together.  I’ve done a couple one day classes before and it’s always tonnes of fun especially if you can drag a friend along.  I’m hoping to find a series of classes that are geared to everyday cooking maybe something along the lines of baking bread, salads, appetizers or comfort food.  Sounds fun, right?  I might even make a friend or two.

Pasta ai Quattro Formaggi by The Pioneer Woman

Better Homes and Gardens

Chicken Tortilla Soup by The Pioneer Woman

 Southern Living

Roasted Tomato Peasant Soup by the little red house

 Viscusi Elson Interior Design via House of Turquoise

All things considering, I can’t have it all that bad, if “what” to make for dinner is one of my problems.  I can’t imagine worrying about “how” I’m going to feed my kids each day.  It’s all the more reason to learn to enjoy it and I think emptying my cupboards and making do might be an exercise in thankfulness.

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7 Comments ( Reply )

  1. The enchanted home
    Jan 09, 2012 @ 2:38 am

    Enjoyed this…I think we all get in those “cooking ruts” then suddenly the switch goes on and we are unstoppable. I remember once when this happened and cooking started to feel like such a chore, I decided to make it interseting by allowing everyone to have one day of the week where they could pick the dinner, it worked out well becuase we are 5 and i normally cook 4-5 nights a week. I knew at least one night a week at least one member of my family was VERY satisfied and somehow this really worked out and made it a lot of fun.
    I think classes are also fantastic and thats one of my to do’s for 2012! Enjoy and good luck with your move!
    The enchanted home recently posted..Meet our newest additions, happy Saturday and pretty posts to ponder!

    Reply

    • rachelandlily
      Jan 09, 2012 @ 9:09 am

      I love your idea of involving the family in meal planning! It’s so obvious…why didn’t I think of that? :)

      Reply

  2. ana {bluebirdkisses}
    Jan 09, 2012 @ 9:47 am

    Ugh I wish I had some tips! I’m in the same boat as you. Not only am I in a cooking rut for the family meals, but baby meals as well. I’ve been turning alot to the web for inspiration on meals and cooking to be honest.
    ana {bluebirdkisses} recently posted..Balancing Meals For Babies {Infant Nutrition Series Part 2}

    Reply

    • rachelandlily
      Jan 09, 2012 @ 1:27 pm

      Oh, I hear you. Making specific meals for everyone makes things more complicated. When my girls were just starting solids, I made big batches of puree that I put in the freezer so I could pull them out whenever they were hungry. After awhile when they grew to be more experienced eaters, I just gave them bits and pieces from our meal. Haha…listen to me, you’d think I was all inspired or something. ;)

      Reply

  3. Danielle Hardy
    Jan 09, 2012 @ 9:50 am

    I REALLY need help in the kitchen.. and I dread those 4 words “What’s for dinner mom?” because I never know what to make and I never prepare ahead of time. MUST GET BETTER!!! loved this post!
    Danielle Hardy recently posted..Monday Faves – City Chic

    Reply

    • rachelandlily
      Jan 09, 2012 @ 1:31 pm

      I’m glad I could help at least a little bit, Danielle!

      Reply

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