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Welcoming Center, Management and General Chat => Chit Chat => Topic started by: obbie on February 21, 2013, 11:57:20 pm

Title: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 21, 2013, 11:57:20 pm
Like prepare so much on the weekend for mid week meals. :)

cook sauces ect, or prepare veges ect for during the week.

Is anyone that organized...
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Halex on February 22, 2013, 12:09:47 am
I batch cook all the time, well I am trying not too.

All my freezers are  full >:(

Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Alexis on February 22, 2013, 01:55:20 am
I'd love to if I had a big enough freezer.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jude59 on February 22, 2013, 02:00:39 am
I do tend to buy big on whatever is on special and cook/prepare and freeze.  I also prepare veg for the next few days.... like wash lettuces and bag and clean and chop other veg.  

At the moment I have a lot of celery and am wondering if I should make a stack of celery soup and freeze.  I also have a recipe that uses a lot of sliced celery and onion sauted and then add curry and pineapple and either cooked chicken or tuna.  Im thinking of preparing several containers of that without the tuna or chicken and freezing so then I can add what I want to the sauce at a future time.

I'm a bit like Hally though.... both my freezers are pretty full... need to start using stuff.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: kyton on February 22, 2013, 02:22:06 am
Not so much cooking but I try to do this after shopping.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/02/22/e6yda2as.jpg)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jude59 on February 22, 2013, 02:44:03 am
Kylie, that is exactly what I do... right down to the sealed bags!
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 22, 2013, 02:55:59 am
Yes, since starting my new job I've been cooking up a storm on Sunday afternoons. It really helps as I don't have to think about it when we get home after work, I try to cook foods that can be either for dinners or lunches at work..lasagne is a regular and I use the tmx to chop/pulverise any left over veg from the fridge to mix into the bolognaise sauce. I also add a pkt of frozen spinach, so I know we are getting our serves of meat & veg for the day. Quiche is another good one.
-it's also a great excuse to spend a couple of hours in the kitchen
:)  once I work out how to use my 6 in 1, I'll have both machines going and it'll be fab!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: cookie1 on February 22, 2013, 03:02:48 am
I don't really need to now that I am retired. I used to try and be a day or so ahead when I worked. Eg I would prepare Monday and Tuesday dinners on Sunday, then do the others the evening before so that Friday when you are exhausted you don't have to cook dinner.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: astarra on February 22, 2013, 03:13:12 am
Yep, batch cooking is a sanity saver!!  :D
Menu plan on mondays, (I have a list of what is in my freezer, how long it has been there and what drawer it is in in the freezer ...I know, I know, I'm crazy!!  :-)) )
I peel enough potatoes/kumara/pumpkin for the week, steam or boil then oil and season - ready for each nights dinner.
Usually make at least 2 of something if I'm making one (unless I am just trying the recipe  ;) )
Make up the sauces, fillings for pies, mornays etc in bulk for meals later on.
If I have an excess of something I preserve it somehow (in jars, dried, frozen or cooked with)
Hope that helps.  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 22, 2013, 03:19:10 am
Thanks, love the way you do veges Kyton.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: achookwoman on February 22, 2013, 03:20:01 am
Yes always when I worked full time.  Leave at 7 am,  home mostly by 6 pm.  Some times 10 or 11 pm.  Un fortunately still do the same,  ( cook lots),  although trying to menu plan ,  which does help.    Always have had a big freezer. At one stage had 4 freezers,  down to 3 now.  Trying to empty the big bench one.  
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Yvette on February 22, 2013, 03:42:12 am
Yes I do, usually cook one or two meals on Sunday for Monday and Tuesday, menu plan and also get DS and DD to pick one meal they want each week. We have pizza on Friday nights most of the time  :)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: stacelee on February 22, 2013, 05:20:17 am
I've actually gone the other way and I'm trying to stop and pick up "fresh" food every day or every couple of days because with working full time I was finding that I throw out a lot of food if I have it stockpiled in the fridge.  Shopping every day/couple of days means I'm only getting as much as I really need.  I drive home past between 4 to 6 grocery stores and a couple of fruit and vegetable stores plus an asian food store (or three) and a "global" food store so I'm spoilt for choice.  The only time the theory falls down is when I have my puppy with me and no husband (we have started commuting together now the brat is finished school).  I'm finding I'm more inspired to cook when I don't have to think too far ahead.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: astarra on February 22, 2013, 06:24:02 am
Another thing which I find good (tho I don't know if it is classed as batch cooking or not  ??? ) is to freeze muffin mix in the muffin trays ready to cook, that way you can have freshly cooked muffins if someone calls in unexpectedly (and they think you are amazing!!  ;) )
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: mcmich on February 22, 2013, 06:35:41 am
Fabulous idea Astarra - unfortunately I wouldn't have the freezer space.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on February 22, 2013, 06:45:35 am
Another thing which I find good (tho I don't know if it is classed as batch cooking or not  ??? ) is to freeze muffin mix in the muffin trays ready to cook, that way you can have freshly cooked muffins if someone calls in unexpectedly (and they think you are amazing!!  ;) )

fantastic idea - Astarra -  how do you seal your trays?
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: astarra on February 22, 2013, 07:16:11 am
I have some with lids, otherwise a double layer of gladwrap then a layer of foil, just for strength so i can stack them.  :)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: CreamPuff63 on February 22, 2013, 08:44:59 am
doesnt the muffin mix need to thaw out a bit? and if so, how long would it take to thaw?

amazing to see how you pre-cut your vegies. I noticed there was a packet of capsicum/corn/peas - is that for a special dish that you make? do you randomly buy the vegies and just cut them up, or have you precut them with a certain dish in mind?

I buy what I need everyday as I have to go and collect the mail anyway, and not much gets wasted this way for me. I never know what I'm going to cook until the day.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: medusa on February 22, 2013, 08:59:44 am
Not so much cooking but I try to do this after shopping.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/02/22/e6yda2as.jpg)

How long does this last when you prepare veges this way. Such a good idea.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: kyton on February 22, 2013, 09:29:05 am
CP - no it is actually all capsicum, the three colour packs.

Medusa - those will last close to a week.

I buy meat every 2-3 days as hubby won't eat frozen meat.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on February 22, 2013, 10:28:56 am
Love the idea of doing that kyton. I just worry it'll all go off quicker but if you say it lasts close to a week I'm tempted to start doing this. I find myself being lazy in that respect - I just go for a cheese sandwich cause I can't be bothered to chop salad every time to go in it for example. I'm going to start doing this. Thanks for the inspiration.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: kyton on February 22, 2013, 10:37:22 am
Brumington - I am in the habit of almost sealing the bags then roll them up to push out as much air as possible. Then finish sealing. I reckon this helps keep them fresh.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: EmeraldSue on February 22, 2013, 10:44:56 am
Um, no.
I'm not a list maker or a meal planning type of gal.
I freeze leftovers for lunches, but that,s about it.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Kimmyh on February 22, 2013, 10:52:54 am
Um, no.
I'm not a list maker or a meal planning type of gal.
I freeze leftovers for lunches, but that,s about it.
Me too ES. And my freezer is small so I can't lose anything in there ;)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Mama Fergie on February 22, 2013, 01:40:46 pm
I bulk cook as often as I can but don't like pre cooking veg as it loses the nutrients.
When I cook for just the two of us I always cook for 6 and freeze the remainder which is handy if family or friends come unexpectedly.
Depends on the dish as I feel a lot of foods taste better just freshly cooked or reheated the next day.
Don't like supermarket frozen veg apart from baby peas.
Havevseparatebfreezer for frozen raw meats and another for cooked foods.
Small 2 door  freezer attached to fridge  in kitchen for breads, icecreams etc and have a fridge in garage for my veggies and salads
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Halex on February 22, 2013, 09:57:10 pm
MF, did you buy your chest  freezer to buy meat in bulk?

A while back you were thinking about it & I sent you some info about a bulk meat butcher nor.
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 22, 2013, 10:49:56 pm
Brumington, I don't do it as regularly as I should, but the tupperware fridge smart containers really are excellent for storing cut up veg and you should get at least two weeks from most things. Coriander doesn't last here, but if I put it in my fridge smarts it will last around there weeks! -I don't sell tupperware, but really think the fridge smarts are such great value!
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Halex on February 22, 2013, 11:08:09 pm
Brumington, I don't do it as regularly as I should, but the tupperware fridge smart containers really are excellent for storing cut up veg and you should get at least two weeks from most things. Coriander doesn't last here, but if I put it in my fridge smarts it will last around there weeks! -I don't sell tupperware, but really think the fridge smarts are such great value!

I had celery for 3 weeks in my clear mates.

Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on February 23, 2013, 10:05:47 am
I'm having a Tupperware party on Saturday. I think the clear mates will have to be at the top of the list of my 'must have' stuff. I always wrap my celery alfoil which makes it last FOREVER but it isn't cut up.  I might try and cut it up and see if it still lasts as long.  Or, just shove it in the clear mates which I'm buying on Saturday!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 10:13:50 am
I'm having a Tupperware party on Saturday. I think the clear mates will have to be at the top of the list of my 'must have' stuff. I always wrap my celery alfoil which makes it last FOREVER but it isn't cut up.  I might try and cut it up and see if it still lasts as long.  Or, just shove it in the clear mates which I'm buying on Saturday!

What great timing! They really are a fantastic product, some people even take the crisper drawer out of their fridge and replace it with stackable fridge-smarts. I've tried it but didn't have anywhere to keep my crisper drawer (and just couldn't throw it out) so I put my fridge-smarts in the crisper or anywhere they'll fit in the fridge!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: judydawn on February 23, 2013, 10:22:56 am
I think I need some of those fridge smart containers but no-one I know has Tupperware parties.  Don't suppose you can buy online?
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 10:24:55 am
Maybe Robyn can tell you the name of the ebay shop? I know she has bought the modular mates from ebay, maybe the same seller has fridge smarts too?
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: judydawn on February 23, 2013, 10:29:05 am
Robyn as in Johnro or Obbie Jamberie?
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on February 23, 2013, 10:30:34 am
Judy .. Look at Tupperware on eBay and for vendors from Malaysia... Obbie bought hers from there but don't know which vendor she used...
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 10:46:54 am
OOps, sorry, Obbie....and yes she did say Malaysia but I'm not sure exactly which seller...hope that helps
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: snappy on February 23, 2013, 10:50:02 am
I've bought tupperwareon eBay too.  Ooh, I don't have the fridge mates though - I have very limited freezer space so I'm looking for quick prep ideas and I love what kynton has done.

I've just tried it tonight, chopped pumpkin, potatoes, capsicum and some minced garlic and onion in ziplock bags. I want to see how long they will last.  But the fridge mates sound excellent if I could get a whole week of cut up vegies!
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 11:09:03 am
Snappy cut veggies will last two weeks in fridge-smarts. Provided they are used weekly, they are one item of Tupperware that can save you money. I need to get into the routine of using them....I've also heard that when you wash them, it's a good idea to store them in the fridge to remind you to use them again -works for me...till I overload the fridge;D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Frozzie on February 23, 2013, 11:19:46 am
Nope dont batch cook .. Have tried and end up forgetting its in the freezer ad prefer to cook fresh depending what i feel like on the day but i can see it would be handy for kids lunch boxes now that its necessary to cook for them here and i wasnt working but working could see the benefit.. I loved that in france if you cook everyone i know buys and cooks fresh on the day.. Menu planning too tried and failed as i kept changing it lol.. Good in theory just doesnt work well for me..
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: snappy on February 23, 2013, 11:23:44 am
Thanks Jamberie!  I get a fruit and vegie box delivered every week so I always have heaps - but it would be great if they were already per-cut like kynton does.  I'm definitely going to buy a starter set and see how they go.

Unfortunately my peeled and diced potatoes are already looking a little brown on the edges so I'm not holding out too much hope for them but all the other vegies are looking ok still.

I just saw the mini sized fridge mates - they would be great for peeled garlic cloves!
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 11:34:09 am
Oh, didn't know they had mini ones....brb...
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on February 23, 2013, 11:35:32 am
 ;D ;D ;D  welcome to Shopping Thread #2!!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 11:36:45 am
;D ;D ;D  welcome to Shopping Thread #2!!  ;D ;D ;D

haha lol!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: judydawn on February 23, 2013, 11:39:24 am
I see Kynton hasn't got potatoes in her photo snappy but astarra says she peels enough potatoes/kumara/pumpkin for the week, steams or boils then oil and season - ready for each nights dinner.  Did you treat your potato in anyway or did you just peel and bag it - with it going brown already it must have been the latter.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 23, 2013, 11:42:56 am
I just saw the mini sized fridge mates - they would be great for peeled garlic cloves!

Oh yes, the minis look great....found some on ebay from the US...$8.70 which I thought sounded ok til I read $40 for postage...I don't think so!!!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: snappy on February 23, 2013, 11:55:15 am
I see Kynton hasn't got potatoes in her photo snappy but astarra says she peels enough potatoes/kumara/pumpkin for the week, steams or boils then oil and season - ready for each nights dinner.  Did you treat your potato in anyway or did you just peel and bag it - with it going brown already it must have been the latter.

I just reread astarra's post too and noticed she precooked hers.  Oh well, luckily I only did two so no big loss - I'm just trying to find ways to make week nights easier given I can only store about two meals in the freezer.  I might try per cooking the potatoes tomorrow
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: MEP on February 23, 2013, 02:40:43 pm
I have a couple of sets of the Tupperware fridge mates and didn't find them useful so only use them for about two weeks. I must try them again. I think one of them is being used by DS for his crayons at the moment.

Must find a way to cook more during the week as working full time means often I don't feel like cooking when I get home after 6pm. We were wasting so much food that I have also started buying what I have decided to cook on the same day or next night.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: snappy on February 23, 2013, 09:21:12 pm
I'm the same MEP, and add in footy training two nights a week and swimming lessons another and we are not home before 6.30pm most nights - I need dinner on the table in 20 mins.  I was hoping if the vegies were all peeled and cut up they can just be thrown into a salad or microwave steamer, doesn't save much time but every 5 mins counts in my world. 

I have also minced up some garlic and onion in a ziplock bag so I can just throw it in - I use it in so many dishes - meatballs, curries, bologneses, casseroles etc.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 23, 2013, 09:35:29 pm
Thats a great idea Snappy.

I have cut up veges and put into zip lock bags for the week.

I have made cannelloni and lasagne, and froze.

Tonight is corned silverside, so that will be made into fritters for tomorrow nights dinner.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Kimmyh on February 23, 2013, 11:22:26 pm
Brumington, I don't do it as regularly as I should, but the tupperware fridge smart containers really are excellent for storing cut up veg and you should get at least two weeks from most things. Coriander doesn't last here, but if I put it in my fridge smarts it will last around there weeks! -I don't sell tupperware, but really think the fridge smarts are such great value!
Ditto jamberie. Fridge smarts are the best thing you can buy. Veg really does last a long time in them, even when cut up.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: mcmich on February 23, 2013, 11:29:10 pm
I will have to check out the fridge smarts. I only have modular mates for the pantry.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Halex on February 23, 2013, 11:46:02 pm
I was put off them at first as they take up a lot of room in the fridge, but yes veg lasts a long time :)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on February 24, 2013, 12:15:38 am
I have a couple of fridgesmarts I haven't used for ages . . will dig them out again.  Hally, you're right - I think that's why I stopped using them - took up a lot of room in the fridge.  I'll try storing them in the crisper . . .

I've just been wondering (and I don't know how you'd guage this one)  even if the vegetables, etc appear to keep a long time, do they also retain their nutritional value?
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Halex on February 24, 2013, 12:22:34 am
In my old  house, I remved the crisper & put  the fridge smarts there. I now keep most of them in the garage, a pain, but bulky.

I was also told not to chop the veg up as they last longer. I did an experiment  a few weeks back, the celery that had not been chopped 2 weeks later was perfect, the chopped celery in smallish rings was on its way out.

Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 24, 2013, 12:23:53 am
I should buy fridge smarts too.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: stacelee on February 24, 2013, 12:32:08 am
I'm about to try the dline banana and produce bags to see how they go....I'm sick of pulling soggy vegetables out of the vegetable keeper.  One of the reasons why I'm shopping every couple of days.  My worms (compost worms :) ) were eating better than we were.  I did however go and do a big shop at Superbutcher this morning so my freezer is full of meat again.  Now I just have to convince the brat that eating rib fillet steak for breakfast when your mother has defrosted for dinner is grounds for murder. 
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 24, 2013, 12:34:14 am
 ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on February 24, 2013, 12:43:00 am
I'm about to try the dline banana and produce bags to see how they go....I'm sick of pulling soggy vegetables out of the vegetable keeper.  One of the reasons why I'm shopping every couple of days.  My worms (compost worms :) ) were eating better than we were.  I did however go and do a big shop at Superbutcher this morning so my freezer is full of meat again.  Now I just have to convince the brat that eating rib fillet steak for breakfast when your mother has defrosted for dinner is grounds for murder. 

Oh gosh!!  you too??? ditto to the soggy crisper (a contradiction in terms there?? ;D)  . . . the worms - ah, yes, the worms  (and it's all chopped up in  the TMX for the little darlings!!). 

 . .and the steaks??  *sigh*  I think it's a universal affliction of the young . . particularly the male variety!!  ;D ;D ;D

(You've made my day!!  Soooo glad there's someone else out there that all this happens to . . . . ;D ;D)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: mcmich on February 24, 2013, 02:01:08 am
I should buy fridge smarts too.
Are you going to buy from ebay Rob? I don't know what they cost from the catologue to compare.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 24, 2013, 04:36:55 am
I'll check out my favorite seller Michelle. see what he has on ebay.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 24, 2013, 05:04:19 am
Michelle, have sent him a message about what price. will let you know.
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on February 24, 2013, 05:06:02 am
I'd be interested too Robyn :)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: deedub on February 24, 2013, 08:50:22 am
Darn, I just gave away a couple of fridge smarts I got in a 'mystery pack' the other day, I could have sent them to you Judy! Already have 4, didn't need anymore.
Clear mates are great for storing pastes, stock concentrate etc.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: judydawn on February 24, 2013, 08:56:18 am
Thank you for the nice thought anyway Deedub.  For some reason I don't have any veggie crispers at all in my fridge so I am using a large decor plastic tub, not the ideal arrangement. 
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 24, 2013, 08:58:58 am
I'll let you know jamberie.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: MEP on February 24, 2013, 01:42:27 pm
I will dig out the Tupperware container to see if they are any good for me. Thanks to the inspiration and motivation from this forum, tonight I cut up mushrooms, broccolini, capsicums and a Savoy cabbage ready for a stir fry and salad during the week. I don't like cutting onions and garlic ahead of time because I find the smell spreads throughout the fridge.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Mama Fergie on February 24, 2013, 02:06:14 pm
I don't like to pre chop any veg way in advance of cooking as it depletes the nutrition. I can understand the convenience but for the short time that it takes to clean and chop, the nutrients are more important to me. If you must pre chop best to store in a dark container and not a see through bag or container.
Where possible scrub and don't peel as lots of the nutrients are in the skin.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jude59 on February 24, 2013, 08:38:38 pm
I used to worry about nutriet loss too but apparently there is minimal loss if you use cut fruits within two to three days and cut veg within around five days.  Having a veg patch does mean I tend to pluck and cook these days but from the fruit and veg market I do prepare what I can.

"Cut fruits and vegetables lose some of their nutritional value when the flesh is exposed to oxygen. Fruits that are cut and stored in the refrigerate lose from 10 to 25 percent of vitamin C and carotenoids (antioxidants that are related to vitamin A) in about five or six days. Other nutrients and phytochemicals aren't lost after cutting."

"You don't have to wait until the last moment to cut your produce, but be sure you keep them stored in air-tight containers in your refrigerator. Having fresh fruits and vegetables ready to eat in your refrigerator may make it easier for you to make healthy choices at snack time.

How long should you keep them in the refrigerator? Use freshly-cut fruits within two or three days and vegetables within four or five days, to be sure you are getting the most flavor, best texture and maximum nutritional value."
About.com nutrition.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on February 24, 2013, 09:50:10 pm
Thanks for that info, Jude59 . .  :D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Deeau on February 24, 2013, 10:22:35 pm
I find the decore containers good too, the ones that are designed for microwave cooking have a vent in the top and a rack to keep the veg up off the bottom, I have as much success with those as the tupperware ones and they are alot cheaper.
http://www.decor.com.au/usage/viewproducts.aspx?id=563 (http://www.decor.com.au/usage/viewproducts.aspx?id=563)

As for bulk cooking I pre prep lots of meals and put in the freezer, pre make meatloaf etc, some meals are precooked and frozen and others are just cut up and thrown in a bag, one of my favourites is chopped chicken, throw in peanut butter, soy sauce, plum jam ( or apricot ) and chilli sauce, put in the frezzer, this can be taken out and defroted in the fridge, thrown in the crockpot in the morning or put in the oven for 25 minutes at night or even cooked in the pressure cooker if your really in a hurry. There are lots of options, with veg I tend to wash it all when I them get home and store then just chop up as I need it.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: MEP on February 24, 2013, 11:01:12 pm
Thanks for the info about nutrient loss Jude.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on February 25, 2013, 12:08:02 am
lock n lock is on sale at TVSN :)  for those who wanted it.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 01, 2013, 03:01:57 am
Its Friday so I am cooking heaps tonight, for the freezer.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: MEP on March 01, 2013, 03:34:21 am
Wish I could be as organised as you are Robyn. I find my energy level is at the lowest point come Friday night so just managing dinner is a struggle let alone bulk cooking for the following week. It's a long weekend here so I'm hoping to do some bulk cooking over the weekend.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 01, 2013, 05:41:53 am
Can't get Fridge smart from Malaysia.

wish i could as its cheaper.
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on March 01, 2013, 05:47:11 am
Thanks for reporting back! Might have to have a party :-\
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 01, 2013, 06:35:21 am
costs  so much in oz for the same thing.
I will keep checking
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on March 01, 2013, 12:40:41 pm
I'm having my party tomorrow and after this thread they are high on my list of 'wants' from the catalogue.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 01, 2013, 07:00:56 pm
Brumington, post back how much they re at your party..
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Frozzie on March 01, 2013, 09:31:13 pm
I have heaps of tupperware including the fridge smarts or whatever they ate called but wasnt a fan as they took up so much space in my fridge and to be honest most modern fridges do quite a good job of keeping fruit and veg crisp and fresh for longer..

I ended up giving them away if i remember.. May still have one or two !
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 01, 2013, 09:43:23 pm
I am cooking, and preparing.  Been up since 4am....
Just made choc slice
CP's milo biscuits

chicken wings in a sweet plum sauce in oven now.

Now time for breakie.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: goldfish on March 01, 2013, 09:51:08 pm
Best time to cook, Obbie - it's a very peaceful time of day . . .
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 02, 2013, 04:35:29 am
It was goldfish, I got o much done
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on March 02, 2013, 09:48:06 am
Brumington, post back how much they re at your party..

Medium for a set of two are $59
Medium long set of two are $67
Large, just one $50
Set (one small, one med, one large) $104
Small set of two $49

I got one for free for the sales I made which is pretty cool and the option of buying the most awesome slicer at 70% off. I also got $135 to spend on what I want and a little egg slicer for free. Quite chuffed really!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Kimmyh on March 02, 2013, 09:51:22 am
Well done brummington. Sounds like the party was a success. Love Tupperware ;D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: judydawn on March 02, 2013, 10:41:23 am
You sure get good bonuses and gift opportunities when you have a Tupperware party  :-X ;)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Cornish Cream on March 02, 2013, 10:45:40 am
The last Tupperware party I went to was over thirty years ago :D :D :D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Kimmyh on March 02, 2013, 11:12:01 am
Lol CC. My DH would prefer that. Sadly my last one was only a few months ago ;)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on March 02, 2013, 11:31:39 am
They are dangerous!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on March 02, 2013, 11:33:06 am
The last Tupperware party I went to was over thirty years ago :D :D :D

Am I right in saying that Tupperware has lost its footing in UK now? My mum said she thought they'd stopped selling it over there now? (my family still live there).
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Cornish Cream on March 02, 2013, 11:53:07 am
The last Tupperware party I went to was over thirty years ago :D :D :D

Am I right in saying that Tupperware has lost its footing in UK now? My mum said she thought they'd stopped selling it over there now? (my family still live there).
I thought so too Brumington but it looks as though you can still buy it through this lady here (http://www.thetupperwarelady.co.uk/) in the UK ;D
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 02, 2013, 09:56:17 pm
thanks brumington..
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Halex on March 02, 2013, 10:04:54 pm
I am aving a tupperware party wednesday.

Anyone in Perth like to come? Pm me :)

Halex
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 04, 2013, 06:41:24 am
sounds fun Hally
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: mcmich on March 04, 2013, 06:49:51 am
I am aving a tupperware party wednesday.

Anyone in Perth like to come? Pm me :)

Halex

Wish I lived closer Hally. I contacted Tupperware Newcastle ( VIA PHONE AND EMAIL) 10 days ago and have had no response  ???
I want to buy some fridge smart/mates - can't get a consultant.  :(
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: MEP on March 04, 2013, 02:14:19 pm
Sounds like a busy day Robyn. Our kitchen, family room and dining is open plan so I can only use TMX briefly during certain times of the day. DH and kids hate the noise and tell me to turn it off. In fact DS3 likes to pretend  he has a TMX too but his is not noisy (his is an ikea salad spinner)  :)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: cowley on March 04, 2013, 08:50:23 pm
Not so much cooking but I try to do this after shopping.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/02/22/e6yda2as.jpg)

I am interested to find out about the herbs. I see some in the photo. How long do they last like that? I have never really bought herbs but having to buy them for demos, they are expensive and I have put them in a glass of water and then throwing it out.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Frozzie on March 04, 2013, 08:56:43 pm
Cowley have you ever thought of a mini herb garden??? Would be alot cheaper and you could cut off what you need fresh??
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: cowley on March 04, 2013, 09:32:48 pm
oh for sure. I actually have a big vege garden and fruit trees so you would think I grow herbs. We go away a lot and watering is the problem but I need to get my act together. But that all takes time. I need to buy herbs in the short term and was interested in the storage ideas.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: judydawn on March 04, 2013, 10:03:00 pm
Cowley, just putting say parsley for instance in water and in the fridge is not enough to keep it fresh for long.  You have to cover it with a plastic bag - that makes all the difference and it will last a couple of weeks that way.  I have even bought limp parsley from the shop (mine isn't keeping up with my demand and I seem to be losing plants these days) and with this treatment, it is still going 2 weeks later. I change the water at least every second day.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: snappy on March 05, 2013, 01:14:43 am
I know in some supermarkets they sell the herbs in a little pot of soil for about $3.  I bought some basil and it is still going strong after 18 months - the parsley lasted 12 months.  I'm pretty sure you can also buy them from nurseries and hardware stores.

I store them on my kitchen windowsill and water about once a week.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 05, 2013, 02:07:50 am
Cowley, My DH bought me a terracotta herb garden thing. I can grow about 15 herbs in it on our deck.
Just pick what I want fresh.. I love it...

alot of my herbs I plant from seeds.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Cuilidh on March 05, 2013, 02:21:26 am
Cowley, just putting say parsley for instance in water and in the fridge is not enough to keep it fresh for long.  You have to cover it with a plastic bag - that makes all the difference and it will last a couple of weeks that way.  I have even bought limp parsley from the shop (mine isn't keeping up with my demand and I seem to be losing plants these days) and with this treatment, it is still going 2 weeks later. I change the water at least every second day.
Would this also work with basil?  I lose heaps of basil because I often only need a leaf or two but it is such a fragile herb so I don't know how to keep it longer than a day or two.  Come to think of it, the same goes for dill - has anyone had success with storing this one?
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: deedub on March 05, 2013, 02:41:50 am
Hi Marina, I buy a pot of basil from the supermarket and keep it in a tupperware herb planter on the window sill. Lasts for months, and you can just pick a leaf or 2 at leisure. Haven't tried it with dill.

Here's a link to the item:
http://www.tupperware.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/AUS/website/productgallery/productcollections/prepessentials/fresh+herbs+planter (http://www.tupperware.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/AUS/website/productgallery/productcollections/prepessentials/fresh+herbs+planter)

I'm sure a terracotta pot would do as well, although you'd have to remember to water it.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Cuilidh on March 05, 2013, 03:03:15 am
Thanks, Debbie, I'll look into that.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Brumington on March 05, 2013, 04:02:24 am
oh for sure. I actually have a big vege garden and fruit trees so you would think I grow herbs. We go away a lot and watering is the problem but I need to get my act together. But that all takes time. I need to buy herbs in the short term and was interested in the storage ideas.

Cowley, if you are near an Aldi they have a few herbs snap frozen in the freezer section. I have a herb garden but can't for the life of me grow coriander so I find having these on hand in the freezer to be a godsend. I think they are $2.89 a pack and are available in basil, coriander, parsley and chives. I use the amount I need straight from the freezer then put the pack straight back in.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: snappy on March 05, 2013, 04:47:53 am
So I just went to the shops and noticed Big W are selling starmaid fridgemates - supposedly a take off of the Tupperware ones - but most of them are under $5!!!!

So I bought a few to trial........
If anyone was considering the Tupperware ones but was put off by the expense, these could be a good option
Title: Re: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Jamberie on March 05, 2013, 05:41:51 am
Great Snappy! I'll try one soon and compare :)
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: mcmich on March 05, 2013, 05:54:15 am
So I just went to the shops and noticed Big W are selling starmaid fridgemates - supposedly a take off of the Tupperware ones - but most of them are under $5!!!!

So I bought a few to trial........
If anyone was considering the Tupperware ones but was put off by the expense, these could be a good option

Will be interested to see what you think of them Snappy. I just won a set of Tupperware fridge smart/mates on ebay. I wanted to purchase from a local dealer, although Tupperware won't contact me back despite emails and phone calls.
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: obbie on March 05, 2013, 05:55:20 am
Great Snappy, I can get out of here Thursday..
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Cuilidh on March 05, 2013, 07:19:31 am
Congratulations Michele.  You don't need to hear back from Tupperware now!
Title: Re: Does anyone batch cook
Post by: Frozzie on March 05, 2013, 07:32:38 pm
Cowley there are also alot of options re self watering pots these days..so going away shouldnt be a prob with that ..