Being a mom and homemaker can be challenging. There’s always so much to deal with, such as knowing everybody’s schedules, keeping the house clean, appointments and sports practices attended, and that’s not to mention keeping everybody properly fed. Managing all of those moving parts will inevitably lead to ruts, especially the dreaded meal planning rut!
Did you know that the average family has just 9 meals on rotation? Predictability may be key for some families, but for others, it can get pretty boring pretty quickly! Mealtimes can be a real hassle for those in charge of the cooking-especially for busy families who have all sorts of activities throughout the week.
Being stuck in a food rut limits us in so many ways- our kids get too used to certain foods and become afraid of new things.
So how do you get out of the family meal planning rut? Here are some ideas.
Focus on global recipes
There is (literally) a whole world of cuisines to try that make awesome family meals. Try out some of the spice blends of Indian cuisine, share small, flavorsome spanish tapas dishes, or even consider ie immigration to Ireland once you try a tasty, wholesome Irish Stew.
Trying foods from all over the world is never a bad idea. It opens up discussions about different cultures and countries, the difference between the foods of these countries and our own and whether they may be eaten at cultural celebrations. This way, you and your family can become more aware of the world around us.
Host a cooking competition
Families with older kids can enjoy an element of competition while enjoying adding some diversity to thier meals. Take an evening a week where different family members choose a recipe to cook for the rest of the family. It’s a great opportunity to be sociable and get friends and people in the neighborhood included, too! Why not consider creating a recipe binder using some of the more successful recipes shared throughout the week? That way meal planning can be done by using the binder with some of the family’s favorite meals.
The winner will get to choose meals to add to the cooking repertoire for themselves. Cooking with younger kids should always be supervised, but never discouraged. While they may not just yet be able to work on some of the more complex dishes, they can get involved with measuring, mixing, and the grocery shopping needed.
Use a meal subscription service
Subscription meal box services can be an very welcome addition for busy families who lack inspiration for cooking or feel stuck in a rut. They’re also great for time pushed families as you will get everything you need delivered right to your door.
The good news is that most of the services on offer will give you the option to skip weeks and pick them up again when you see fit.
Family meal times are important for bonding and finding out about people’s day. Don’t get bogged down by the burden of repetitive uninspiring meals. Bring the fun back into mealtimes!
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