The best way to cook healthy meals is to sit down and plan 5 meals for the coming week using one of these methods each day.
Stir Fry
Stir frying using olive oil is a quick method of cooking which retains the entire vitamin and mineral contents of food. The secret is to cut all the ingredients into bite size pieces.
Steaming
Using an electric steamer or a steamer above a saucepan is the best way to cook vegetables like carrots, cabbage, parsnips and turnips. Fish is also suitable for steaming as the nutrients are retained and it’s easily digested.
Grilling
This is perfect for cooking meat and vegetables. This is a very healthy option as you don’t need to use much oil, if any. Grilled food locks in the nutrients and flavour. Marinating before grilling also adds more flavour.
Pan Frying
Pan frying is usually the first method of cooking in recipes like stews, casseroles, curries and the old favourite Bolognese. Use olive oil to pan fry because it contains Omega 3 and it should be incorporated into your daily diet.
Stewing
Stewing is a slow method of cooking that renders red meat so tender that it is a perfect cooking choice for children. Any number of vegetables, herbs and spices can be added and because the vegetables are cooked and served in the liquid, all the nutrients are retained.
Baking
Baking is a dry method of cooking and mostly refers to breads, cakes, pizzas and the like. Home baked goods are generally better for you than bought.