Starting university brings about a lot of changes, and one of the biggest is learning how to shop, cook, and prepare meals for yourself. Whether you’re already familiar with cooking or completely new to it, we’re here to share some practical tips to help you navigate the kitchen with ease.
Get the Right Equipment
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have the right kitchen tools. Basic items like a pot, pan, sheet pan, utensils, and a baking dish are a great starting point. While some stores can be pricey, you don’t need to spend a fortune. Charity shops often have affordable kitchen essentials, and budget-friendly stores like The Range, B&M, or Home Bargains offer reasonably priced items to build your collection.
Stock Up on the Basics
Before diving into any recipes, make sure you have a few key ingredients on hand. Essentials like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other seasonings you enjoy will go a long way in making your meals tasty. When shopping, it’s helpful to have a plan. Think about what meals you’ll need for the week, whether you’re packing lunches for campus or prepping meals to grab on the go. Having a plan ensures you stay within budget and avoid unnecessary purchases.
Plan Your Meals
Start by thinking about what you like for each meal of the day. For breakfast, are you more of a cereal or toast person, or do you prefer a cooked breakfast like omelettes, bacon, or sausages? For lunch, do you enjoy a simple sandwich or prefer something warm? And for dinner, do you want something quick and easy to pop in the oven, or do you enjoy taking your time to cook a full meal?
Find Recipes that Work for You
If you’re unsure where to begin with recipes, online resources can be a huge help. Websites like BBC Good Food offer a wide range of student friendly recipes, complete with ingredient lists and step-by-step instructions. If you prefer visual aids, check out cooking tutorials on platforms like TikTok or YouTube, where you can follow along as someone demonstrates the recipe.
Cooking at university doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, a bit of planning, and some inspiration from online recipes, you’ll be able to whip up meals that are delicious and budget friendly!
