Food culture (by definition) refers to the practices, attitudes, and beliefs as well as the networks and institutions surrounding the production, distribution, and consumption of food. We create our own food culture based on our environment and resources in our communities. As time has progressed there has been an increase in the creation of food delivery services apps like Doordash, Postmates and Uber Eats. The days of calling into a restaurant for a tasty meal is decresing. With a few easy taps, food delivery apps has thrived in the food industry because of their convenience and diligence. All though convenient, millennials use of food delivery apps could put an end to the era of Home-cooked meals. According to a 2017 study done by USA Today, the average Millennial eats out five times a week, 14% more than Baby Boomers.
This generation is on the move! We are full of so many new ideas and use technology to our advantage to make our lives easier. Sometimes you hear the quote “there is just not enough time in the day.” So it is understandable why people will cut corners where they can. Cooking at home can be more convenient than we think. It is also healthier and better for your wallet. The average American household spends about $3,000 a year dining out, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here are a few ways that cooking could be made easier for you:
1. Use grocery delivery services
– There are a few grocery delivery services that take the hassle out of figuring out what’s for dinner. Services like Hello Fresh and Blue Apron are always providing promo codes for first time members to experience the service. With this service groceries are delivered to you as often as you would like and based on your family size. The groceries are dropped off in a fresh inculcated box with the meals and serving sizes already portioned out for you. Along with that, there are step-by-step instructions accompanied with pictures to keep cooking time less than 40 minutes.
2. Use a crock pot
– If you don’t have the time or patience to stand over a hot stove this may be the route for you. Pinterest is an app that always has a lot of great recipes you can follow for “Dump & GO” meals. This concept is exactly what it sounds like. Take all the ingredients that you have, dump it in the crock pot with your choice of seasonings, turn the heat on low and GO! These meals can be prepared from the night before and by the time you wake up your home will smell heavenly. If you are not ready for your meal just yet keep your crockpot on the warm option and go about your day.
3. Publix “Meal of the Day”
– If you live in a region that has a Publix grocery store, they have a section in the store that displays their “Meal of the Day”. These sections are usually near the produces, and will have everything you need for that meal on display.. They will not only provide the food but also the cooking supplies you will need (if you do not already have it at home).
4. Grocery store “pre-made” meals
– If you do not have Publix have no fear! Most grocery stores will have some pre-seasoned, pre-packaged meals that require you to do nothing but pop it in the oven.
5. Use YouTube
– YouTube is a tool that is used for everything. If you feel like someone who has no knowledge at all on how to cook, there is something on YouTube for you. There are videos online that content creators have shared to show you detailed instructions on how to prepare a specific meal. The best part is that it is all video, so you almost feel like someone is cooking in the kitchen with you.
6. Find a local caterer to prepare meal preps for you
– It is important to support local businesses. If you know a small food caterer in your area, be sure to ask if they provide meal prep services. Most small business owners will provide their services at an affordable price, and they cater the meals to your needs and dietary restrictions. These suggestions could be helpful to some but it is understandable that some people genuinely do not have the time to prepare food for yourself. If this is the case, one suggestion to keep you on track is to incorporate at least one raw food in your diet each day. This could include a salad, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, nuts and kale. As long as it is a raw, unprocessed and uncooked item you can balance out your diet even with a busy schedule. Overall, the goal is to find what works best for you and your pocket.
By: Imani Kerr