The recent global situation has turned many of us into reluctant home cooks. With restaurants closed and takeaway options limited, we’ve had to dust off our aprons and get creative in the kitchen. Lockdown cooking has become more than something we have to do to sustain ourselves; it’s evolved into a way to pass the time, learn new skills and even bond with family members.
The Rise of Lockdown Cooking
As we’ve found ourselves spending more time at home, many have embraced cooking as a new hobby. Social media feeds are awash with proud displays of homemade sourdough loaves, perfectly risen cakes and elaborate multi-course meals. It seems that lockdown cooking has captured the nation’s imagination.
However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. The initial rush to stockpile led to ingredient shortages in many areas. Flour became as precious as gold dust, and yeast was nowhere to be found. Prices for staple items increased, adding an extra challenge to our culinary adventures.
Despite these hurdles, the British spirit of innovation has prevailed. We’ve adapted recipes, found creative substitutions and learned to make do with what we have on hand. In this spirit, we’ve compiled a list of ten easy recipes that you can master during lockdown using readily available ingredients.
10 Easy Lockdown Cooking Recipes
1. No-Knead Bread
Lockdown cooking wouldn’t be complete without homemade bread. This recipe requires minimal effort and no special equipment.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 5/8 cups water
Method:
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover and let rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
- Shape into a ball and let rise for another 2 hours.
- Bake in a preheated Dutch oven at 230°C for 45 minutes.
2. Store Cupboard Curry
A versatile curry that can be adapted based on what you have available.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can chickpeas
- 1 can chopped tomatoes
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- Any vegetables you have on hand
Method:
- Sauté onion and garlic.
- Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
- Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. One-Pan Pasta
This lockdown cooking favourite minimises washing up while maximising flavour.
Ingredients:
- 500g spaghetti
- 400g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 sprigs basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 1/2 cups water
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a large pan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid has reduced to a sauce.
4. Lockdown Chocolate Mug Cake
A quick and easy treat perfect for lockdown cooking when you’re craving something sweet.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons self-raising flour
- 4 tablespoons caster sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- A few drops of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips (optional)
Method:
- Mix all dry ingredients in a large mug.
- Add the egg and mix well.
- Pour in the milk, oil and vanilla, then mix until smooth.
- Stir in chocolate chips if using.
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes until risen and firm.
5. Stovetop Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s perfect for lockdown cooking.
Ingredients:
- 250g macaroni
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
Method:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until sauce thickens.
- Stir in cheese until melted, then combine with cooked pasta.
6. Vegetable Frittata
A great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand.
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (most veg can work for this but for starters we suggest spinach, peppers, onions)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Whisk eggs with milk, salt and pepper.
- Sauté vegetables in an oven-safe pan.
- Pour egg mixture over vegetables and cook until edges set.
- Sprinkle with cheese and finish under the grill until golden.
7. Homemade Pizza
Turn your kitchen into a pizzeria with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
- 300g strong bread flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 200ml warm water
- Toppings of your choice
Method:
- Mix flour, yeast and salt. Add oil and water to form a dough.
- Knead for 10 minutes, then let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll out, add toppings and bake at 220°C for 15-20 minutes.
8. Lockdown Lentil Soup
A hearty and nutritious option for your lockdown cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can chopped tomatoes
- 1 litre vegetable stock
- 2 teaspoons cumin
Method:
- Sauté onion, carrots and celery.
- Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Blend if desired.
9. No-Churn Ice Cream
A sweet treat that doesn’t require any special equipment.
Ingredients:
- 1 can condensed milk
- 2 cups double cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method:
- Whip cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in condensed milk and vanilla.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours, stirring every 2 hours.
10. Lockdown Flapjacks
A classic British treat that’s perfect for lockdown cooking with children.
Ingredients:
- 250g butter
- 250g golden syrup
- 250g brown sugar
- 500g rolled oats
Method:
- Melt butter, syrup and sugar in a pan.
- Stir in oats.
- Press into a lined baking tin and bake at 180°C for 25 minutes.
Adapting Recipes for Lockdown Cooking
One of the challenges of lockdown cooking is adapting recipes to work with what you have on hand. Here are some tips:
- Substitute ingredients creatively. No buttermilk? Mix milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Use frozen vegetables in place of fresh.
- If cooking for one, halve recipes or freeze portions for later.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Some of the best lockdown cooking innovations have come from necessity!
Cooking with Children During Lockdown
Lockdown cooking can be a great way to keep children entertained and teach them valuable skills. Here are some ideas:
- Let them measure ingredients for simple recipes like flapjacks or banana bread.
- Have them decorate homemade pizzas with their favourite toppings.
- Teach older children knife skills with soft foods like bananas or cooked potatoes.
- Make it fun with themed meals or cooking competitions.
Lockdown cooking has become an unexpected silver lining of these challenging times. It’s given us the opportunity to slow down, reconnect with our food and drink and perhaps even discover hidden culinary talents. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a complete novice, these ten recipes offer a starting point for your lockdown cooking adventures. Who knows? You might just discover a new passion that lasts long after we’re able to dine out again.
