simmering

To prepare a simple boiled rice all you need is a medium-sized saucepan with a well fitting lid, a sieve, a fork, a teaspoon, and measuring cups. White rice is usually clean and does not need washing to remove dust or husk bits like brown rice does. This extra step rinses off excess starch and ensures that the cooked rice is not sticky.

Mix a recipe for baked beans with one for chili con carne and you create a special kind of baked beans. This recipe is great for a crowd.

Soup should be a smooth, friendly spoonful, which is why this is a lasting combination. Some ingredients just work well together: Butternut squash and apples have a complementary, mellow sweetness. Sweet potatoes and apples have a similar agreement, hence our sweet potato side dish.

Serve risotto with peas as a side dish to all sorts of main courses, from grilled chicken or other lean meat to steamed white fish.

This soup is substantial enough for a full meal. Serve with some whole wheat bread and enjoy!

This is a very warming winter soup. It’s very substantial and will keep you going through those cold winter months!

Polenta is a good alternative to the usual potatoes, rice and pasta. It is readily available in most supermarkets and easy to cook.

Who doesn't love lasagna? The downside of this delicious dish is that all that cheese, meat and cream isn't great for you (or your waistline). This version is totally skinny, yet simply delicious.

Puy lentils originate from France and have a distinct flavor. They also cook much faster than other varieties.