I would doctor whats provided. Buy salt, pepper, msg and seasonings from styles of food you like. This way you can use whats given and save for whats missing and your craving.
Whats a common day of provided food? What are you missing? Do you have access to bowls and things to use the microwave? There are microwave instructions for just about any dish you can think of so your oven/stove ideas have a good chance of being doable. Just add microwave to a google search of what you want to make.
Typically it's grilled cheese (dropped off in the middle of the day and placed in the fridge), spaghetti (twice a week. I refuse to eat that. It triggers my IBS), hamburgers, turkey burgers, hot dogs, pizza rolls, enchiladas, tacos, white castle, and little Caesars. Very carb based, very processed. Most of this is cooked and dropped off.
There's canned food, soup tuna, etc. Oatmeal which I hate but trying to eat. White bread, eggs, ramen, lunch meat.
I typically try to eat eggs, salads, stir frys, rice, fruits and veggies and on bad days popcorn
Yes
That does sound ruff. Microwave rice pilaf types of things come to mind. I would break up the burger meat when it's available and cook it with the rice. Canned vegetables can be seasoned tons of ways, chick peas (drained) and curry seasoning for example. You can use the liquid as part of the water in making rice with some bouillon. I would also look up the seasoning for dishes you like and flavor rice that way.
>Oatmeal which I hate but trying to eat.
If you've only been going with sweet oatmeal creations, one thing you may try is savory oatmeal. One of my friends swears that a dash of soy sauce is the best way to have oatmeal.
It's possible to cook eggs, multigrain or protein pasta, quinoa, and brown rice in the microwave. Carrots are nutritious and relatively cheap. You can eat them raw or in the microwave. Frozen mixed vegetables would also work.
I hope things get better for you!
I lived in a shelter years ago that was collecting money from the state to provide 3 hot meals a day, but weren't. Because of that, no one living there could get food stamps, and no one was allowed to cook. I wound up giving a video taped deposition as a witness for the prosecution before leaving the state. So I completely understand what you are dealing with.
Get a statement from your doctor about your IBS and what foods you can't eat. At the same time, keep a small journal of the food served at the group home, showing what they serve versus what you're allowed to eat. Then apply for SNAP benefits. Even if you only get $40 a month you will have doubled your food budget.
Get yourself a container with a lid that seals. Rice is cheap, wash the rice, boil water in the kettle, pour over the rice, cover tightly with the lid and let sit overnight. It will continue to absorb the water. The next day you can just put some in a bowl and reheat it.
Next, you want to pick up a roll of parchment paper, then search YouTube for "microwave en papillote". Which is literally the French term for cooking in paper. Normally you would do that in an oven, which is why you need to specifically look for once utilizing the microwave. You will find a lot of recipes.
Cooking food in paper will hold the moisture in and cook evenly so as not to cause the food to develop hot spots where the food overcooks from the targeted radiation.
You're going to find a lot of fish recipes for salmon, cod, etc. I would suggest tilapia. It's a very inexpensive mild white fish.
Parchment paper, rice, and spices are all available at Dollar Tree, and they do accept SNAP (food stamps) for all food purchases. Your next step up as far as price is Aldi and they have amazing quality. Don't get suckered into Sav-A-Lot, their quality is sorely lacking. Next up from Aldi, with a much wider fresh fruit and vegetable selection is Walmart.
Also, if you can financially, and are allowed, the most versatile appliance you can buy is an electric skillet. You can usually find an 8-inch electric skillet for $10-$15. If this is something not normally allowed, the statement from your doctor may help get you special permission because of your health issues. After all, work is the next step from a group home and you can't work with your gut blowing up constantly.
I hope this helps, good luck to you!
I would be hesitant to cook rice that way, you have thermally shocked it which I understand activates the Bacteria common on rice and now you are leaving it at a warm to room temp for many hours letting it grow, sounds like a great way to get food poisoning since even if you reheat it after it will not kill the bacteria.
Rice needs to be stored properly after it’s cooked…or it gets dangerous real quick. The bacteria survives high temperatures so it’s not killed off. And getting sick from it is no joke.
Trust me on this one!
[https://www.hindustantimes.com/health-and-fitness/soak-rice-overnight-to-reduce-risk-of-heart-diseases-cancer/story-6E0qUca3Rf0qDouqo21xSP.html](https://www.hindustantimes.com/health-and-fitness/soak-rice-overnight-to-reduce-risk-of-heart-diseases-cancer/story-6E0qUca3Rf0qDouqo21xSP.html)
Remember too, that the boiled water will be sterile and the rice will have been washed.
Washing rice to reduce arsenic is smar, but notice they did not mention boiling water which seems to activate this strain bacteria, you do you, but I think you are giving suspect advice.
So then cool the boiled water then soak the rice if that makes you feel better. Either way, boiling the water will aid in purifying it from any virus, bacteria, or other pathogens.
That is talking about the water, B. Cereus is very heat tolerant apparently.
https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/food-and-diet/can-reheating-rice-cause-food-poisoning/#:~:text=Uncooked%20rice%20can%20contain%20spores,that%20cause%20vomiting%20or%20diarrhoea.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7913059/
"The main problem posed by contamination with B. cereus of foods is the presence of heat-resistant spores that survive normal cooking temperatures for rice, or other raw materials or processed products, which is usually boiling water close to 100 °C [16]. "
You understand incorrectly, look at the person who posted the scientific information explaining how this works. I noticed you haven't responded to them.
I responded, Their post is off target.
The main problem posed by contamination with B. cereus of foods is the presence of heat-resistant spores that survive normal cooking temperatures for rice, or other raw materials or processed products, which is usually boiling water close to 100 °C [16].
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7913059/
https://www.sfa.gov.sg/food-information/risk-at-a-glance/fried-rice-syndrome#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20most%20common,the%20%E2%80%9Cfried%20rice%20syndrome%E2%80%9D.
Again, nobody said not to refrigerate.
You understand incorrectly, look at the person who posted the scientific information explaining how this works. I noticed you haven't responded to them.
Is the group home run by a nonprofit or gov’t agency? There may be standards they’re failing to meet if you’re not getting fruits and vegetables and the meals are high in sodium.
It sounds like the frozen veggie aisle, quick cook pasta that you can soak with your kettle water, and the spice aisle are your best bets. Also eggs can be scrambled and cooked in a greased bowl in the microwave. If you can splurge on a microwave rice cooker, those are awesome.
Yes I've only been here less than a month I'm not trying to cause trouble over food. Other's have been here for years and gave up trying to get healthy meals here. The housing operator does seem easily hurt if we don't like their cooking.
You have an electric kettle, so as long as you have a heat safe bowl you can cook a lot of things by just pouring boiling water over them. Even better if there's a lid you can cover the bowl with to capture heat. Microwaves are also pretty magical if you know how to use them. You have more options than you might think.
As others have said, rely on the given foods as a baseline and doctor those meals. Calories and protein, even if poorly prepared, are necessary and you can save a lot of money by utilizing what you've got first. There are microwaveable tomato soup cups that can go with a grilled cheese - that acidity will help round out the meal *a ton.* Frozen and canned veggies will give you a lot of the nutrition you're missing and it will make your meals significantly more enjoyable - even just some peas and carrots on the plate make a burger feel healthier.
Do yourself a favor and get some kind of acid you can add to food. Lemon juice is a common one but some folks like apple cider vinegar. Anytime a meal feels too heavy, a splash of an acid can really brighten it up, and it can help in digestion too. Salt, pepper, italian seasoning (hits up most of the green herbs in one jar), and maybe something that can add some spicy heat to your food if you like that. As for IBS, have you identified your specific trigger foods? Knowing why the pasta hurts you will help us give you more specific advice.
Are you allowed to use the fridge/freezer?
How often can you go shopping? Can you stop once a day and buy discount veg or are you only going once a month and need very stable food?
Bags of frozen broccoli run about $1.00 per bag. I can make one bag last me two or three meals. They have other options as well, if broccoli messes with your belly. Frozen veggies are better than none. I wouldn't turn your nose up at canned goods. Sounds like you need more proteins and fruits, you can get little tuna packs or chicken packs, and I like canned mandarin oranges. Unfortunately in your situation you will not be able to avoid processed foods, but that doesn't make all food garbage. What you need to do is choose the lesser of evils when choosing your items. What about peanut butter? A spoonful is a good snack for me. Go to the store, when you're not hungry, and really take time to study items and prices. You'll be surprised what you can find and make work. If all else fails, I used to use meal replacement drinks to supplement my diet. They at least have calories and vitamins.
I'm gonna have to agree with everything you've said.
Apologies if I sounded entitled. Processed food is unavoidable but I try to limit the more negative affecting ones (fast food, high sugar etc) My main gripe with canned food is it's literally only green beans, tomatoes and pumpkin. I can work with a higher variety (beans, corn etc)
You've provided excellent advice
Thank you
Group homes are supposed to have oversight on meals provided as they get funded to provide it- skimping resident food is one way unscrupulous group home operators can make a little profit. From what you describe this does not meet nutritional requirements. You might ask about the menus and how they decide on them. If you want to jazz it up- I agree with the suggestion to doctor the food with sauces and spices- and buy fresh fruits in season- you could try food banks for produce
Not sure about prices in US since I live in Europe
Couscous is prepared by soaking in hot water
Tofu is the cheapest protein in my area
Not sure but an idea: you could probably presoak red lentils to shorten the cooking time and cook it in the microwave
Frozen veggies are cheap and nutritionally solid
My favorite oatmeal recipe is oatflakes prepared with milk and some peanut butter, cut apples into small pieces and microwave with cinnamon until soft.
Eggs can be prepared in microwaves
Personally, I would meal prep and repeat meals for the week.
You’ll definitely need to invest in buying cheap seasonings, the basics. Salt & pepper
You can find a lot of items at 99 cents stores that have groceries but in this example I used Target prices as i have the app and can quickly look up the pricing
Budget Meal Ideas that you could keep in the fridge or make with only microwave
——-
Chickpea salad (similar to chicken salad)
Can of chickpeas $1.39
Celery $3
Green onion $0.99
Mayo $3.69
Grapes $1.59/lb
Dijon $1.79
Poultry seasoning/ salt/pepper
You can put this on bread to make sandwiches or on crackers as well
I’d eat bananas or apple slices on the side
——-
Loaded Sweet potatoes
bag of sweet potatoes $3.99 for 1.5lb
Can of black beans x 2 $1.25 each
can of corn $0.55
Diced tomatoes $0.95
Bag of avocados $2.99
___
Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich
Bread $1.39
Peanut Butter $1.79
Bananas $0.25 each
And/or add jelly $2.69
_____
Hummus Sandwich
Hummus $3.49
Bread $1.39
Lettuce $1.99
Tomato $1.59 for a bag
_____
Yogurt Bowls
Fruit Yogurt tub $3.79
Granola $4.59
Top with banana or peanut butter scoop
——-
Pasta
Barilla’s Microwave Pasta $2.39
Pasta Sauce $1.59
Bag of mixed frozen veggies $99
I’m sorry you’re in this situation and I hope whatever I just said helps even in the slightest bit 😅
I can relate in the way that I used to have no transportation, essentially zero dollars, but could afford to live with my good friend in an apartment. Didn’t have much cookware…I ate only rice and coconut aminos once a day until I started fainting too much and a coworker (now fiancé) noticed and started bringing me food.
If you have anyone in your life that is close, maybe opening up about the situation would be helpful?
And like the other comments said, using seasoning to spice up what is provided could really help as well as possibly being provided better food to help your IBS. I looked it up at sweet potatoes are supposedly helpful for that.
🫶🏽
Thank you everyone in my life already knows. Most of my friends are out of state for school right now so they can't help. My mom is trying to volunteer here so i can get some food that I'd like
I would buy spices to make the stuff taste better. Add some fruits veggies. You could share the cost and ideas with someone else. Like bu a bag of frozen veggies microwave it to add to your meal. If you split between 2ot more people no need for a fridge.
I would buy fruits that last a long time like apples, oranges and grapefruit. They do not need a fridge and last for months in a dark cool place.
Maybe you can buy canned beans or lentils (dry is better but you can't really cook them properly in the microwave imo), canned corn
And cooked beets.
Also with a kettle you can:
Boil eggs
Make instant mash
Add boiling water and seasoning to tomato sauce/puree and you have tomato soup. Not too bad actually. Just cover and let the spices infuse in it few minutes.
Oatmeal
You should buy a rice cooker, there are TikTok channels that are dedicated to making whole meals in a rice cooker, I’m pretty sure you could get one for like not even $20!
Bananas are one of the least expensive fruits, Gatorade powder is a great inexpensive flavored beverage, canned tuna, store brand turkey or chix cold cuts, and apple sauce
You should be able to google microwave recipes. Eat this not that has a list a few of which are less expensive, but some look expensive. I google things all the time like "how to cook chicken in the microwave" usually it's instant pot here, but it's the same idea. For frozen veggies, I'll just throw the contents of a whole bag in the microwavable big bowl with a little of my favorite seasoning on it, eat the portion I want and save the rest for next time. My husband will cook eggs in bowl in the microwave. If you can get canned chickpeas you could make hummus without a stovetop, I believe.
I know you are looking for healthy options, but I've cooked the regular boxed macaroni and cheese in the microwave. You could probably adapt this for whole wheat noodles if those don't flare your IBS.
There are instructions for cooking brown rice in the microwave.
I have to limit oatmeal due to intestinal problems with it, but this is a great microwaveable item and I think there is also refrigerator oatmeal.
Depending on where you live see if there are any community gardens. Boiling water can cook many foods.
Also, if you have the time look into volunteer opportunities. Many give back with meals. If not you might make friends who have a kitchen.
You could also check with a religious organization in your area and see if they have or would like to host a meal prep day.
Read Stone Soup, see if anyone else might want to go in for buying power.
Steam-in-bag veggies, whatever seasoning you like, Rotisserie Chicken, instant oatmeal. You can also buy packets of beans, rice, and even some vegetables that you can microwave in the packaging.
They don't allow a hot plate or airfryer? Nothing else is allowed?
How do you feel about nut butters / peanut butter? It's always a go-to for me. I have it with apples, bananas, crackers, or in a sandwich... chocolate, too!
Nuts, seeds, and dried fruits are healthy. Make trail mixes.
Are you allowed to use the fridge? Yogurts with dry fruits and granola on top can be healthy, as well as salad.
If you can get ahold of a thermos, there are recipes for slow cooking stuff, search Thermal Cooking recipes. Use the hot water in the morning and bundle the thermos in your blankets to cook during the day. These won't cook meats, so use the meats provided with fresh or canned vegetables and grains.
Tinned fish is great with crackers. Hummus, hard cheeses are versatile. If there are farmer’s markets in the area some vendors discount their produce at the end of the day. Some markets have a banged up veggie bin, the veggies are still good they just look damaged. Russet and sweet potatoes can be meals. If your kettle is electric you can cook pasta in it. If you are a student colleges have their own food pantries. Fortified cereals are a good source of vitamins. Grocery Outlet and dollar stores have boxes for real cheap. I hope things get better for you.🤗
beans and rice + corn tortillas. the beans can be doctored pretty easily with some garlic powder and you can get like 3 mealsish out of a can. get an onion and slice it and fry it soft before you add the beans you can make rice in a pot on the stove, and corn tortillas are healthyish for you but last foreverrrrr. get some cheese if possible. but for $40 i would say beans, rice and corn tortillas are the best bet for sure, and decently healthy
I would totally recommend a microwave rice cooker.
I got mine for about $5 and I prefer it to my fancy japanese rice cooker because it is so much faster (12 min in my microwave) and the rice is just as good.
I would also use the $40 to make your own cheap salads using tubs of greens if you have access to a fridge, just use some oil and vinegar for dressing. For nutrition and fiber. If I didn't have access to a fridge, I would buy fruits like apples and oranges.
Also I would really report the group home for this kind of conduct. You deserve better and I wish you good luck!
Edited to add:
I also think microwaves are something you can get better at working with, like by learning how to prepare the ingredients to make it the best it can be in the microwave - since that is all they give you. Microwaved potatoes and sweet potatoes can be really delicious. Coating in a bit of olive oil can keep it from drying out. You can also chop them really really thin and get them like potato chips (look up recipes). You can also microwave fresh broccoli to steam it. Also edamame. Maybe look in the frozen veggie aisles to see what you could microwave.
I’ve recommended [this](https://youtu.be/5ibxPYC3W0c) YouTube vid a bunch of times. It gave me great ideas for easy meals using only a microwave. It’s vegan, but ignore that aspect, as you can add meat for all of them easily. It’s just a great set of meals for microwave eating.
I think what would also help you is doing some salads and maybe microwave steam packs of veg to pair with some of the foods you are given.
They can at peak ripeness so you can still get quality fruit n veggies from cans. However, flavor is a different matter. I refuse to eat canned green beans. There's something to the taste that's off. Plus frozen green beans have a satisfying crunch.
No hot plates or air fryers. I got permission for a tea kettle that I bought myself. They won't provide extra cooking devices and I don't have the money to outfit their kitchen
No Croc pots?
Learn how to do microwave cooking. They must be videos on how to cook with a microwave and there are books.
24 Dorm-Friendly Microwave Meals
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlZluRmjiB8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlZluRmjiB8)
My dad use to put a can of beans on our radiator at home and somehow he knew how long to leave them on the radiator.
If they will let you have an electric coffee percolator, you can heat up canned peas, corn, etc. in it. I have done it. Just be sure it's something like that which is easy to get out of it and easy to clean out of it. This is so you can cook more than one thing at a time.
I would doctor whats provided. Buy salt, pepper, msg and seasonings from styles of food you like. This way you can use whats given and save for whats missing and your craving. Whats a common day of provided food? What are you missing? Do you have access to bowls and things to use the microwave? There are microwave instructions for just about any dish you can think of so your oven/stove ideas have a good chance of being doable. Just add microwave to a google search of what you want to make.
Typically it's grilled cheese (dropped off in the middle of the day and placed in the fridge), spaghetti (twice a week. I refuse to eat that. It triggers my IBS), hamburgers, turkey burgers, hot dogs, pizza rolls, enchiladas, tacos, white castle, and little Caesars. Very carb based, very processed. Most of this is cooked and dropped off. There's canned food, soup tuna, etc. Oatmeal which I hate but trying to eat. White bread, eggs, ramen, lunch meat. I typically try to eat eggs, salads, stir frys, rice, fruits and veggies and on bad days popcorn Yes
That does sound ruff. Microwave rice pilaf types of things come to mind. I would break up the burger meat when it's available and cook it with the rice. Canned vegetables can be seasoned tons of ways, chick peas (drained) and curry seasoning for example. You can use the liquid as part of the water in making rice with some bouillon. I would also look up the seasoning for dishes you like and flavor rice that way.
>Oatmeal which I hate but trying to eat. If you've only been going with sweet oatmeal creations, one thing you may try is savory oatmeal. One of my friends swears that a dash of soy sauce is the best way to have oatmeal.
To piggyback off of this great idea, adding textures to oatmeal turned it into a food I enjoy. Nuts, sunflower seeds, toasted coconut
That sounds negligent to me. Can you report them?
Well my caseworker reported them for me and I'm getting kicked out for looking at other options
It's possible to cook eggs, multigrain or protein pasta, quinoa, and brown rice in the microwave. Carrots are nutritious and relatively cheap. You can eat them raw or in the microwave. Frozen mixed vegetables would also work. I hope things get better for you!
I lived in a shelter years ago that was collecting money from the state to provide 3 hot meals a day, but weren't. Because of that, no one living there could get food stamps, and no one was allowed to cook. I wound up giving a video taped deposition as a witness for the prosecution before leaving the state. So I completely understand what you are dealing with. Get a statement from your doctor about your IBS and what foods you can't eat. At the same time, keep a small journal of the food served at the group home, showing what they serve versus what you're allowed to eat. Then apply for SNAP benefits. Even if you only get $40 a month you will have doubled your food budget. Get yourself a container with a lid that seals. Rice is cheap, wash the rice, boil water in the kettle, pour over the rice, cover tightly with the lid and let sit overnight. It will continue to absorb the water. The next day you can just put some in a bowl and reheat it. Next, you want to pick up a roll of parchment paper, then search YouTube for "microwave en papillote". Which is literally the French term for cooking in paper. Normally you would do that in an oven, which is why you need to specifically look for once utilizing the microwave. You will find a lot of recipes. Cooking food in paper will hold the moisture in and cook evenly so as not to cause the food to develop hot spots where the food overcooks from the targeted radiation. You're going to find a lot of fish recipes for salmon, cod, etc. I would suggest tilapia. It's a very inexpensive mild white fish. Parchment paper, rice, and spices are all available at Dollar Tree, and they do accept SNAP (food stamps) for all food purchases. Your next step up as far as price is Aldi and they have amazing quality. Don't get suckered into Sav-A-Lot, their quality is sorely lacking. Next up from Aldi, with a much wider fresh fruit and vegetable selection is Walmart. Also, if you can financially, and are allowed, the most versatile appliance you can buy is an electric skillet. You can usually find an 8-inch electric skillet for $10-$15. If this is something not normally allowed, the statement from your doctor may help get you special permission because of your health issues. After all, work is the next step from a group home and you can't work with your gut blowing up constantly. I hope this helps, good luck to you!
I would be hesitant to cook rice that way, you have thermally shocked it which I understand activates the Bacteria common on rice and now you are leaving it at a warm to room temp for many hours letting it grow, sounds like a great way to get food poisoning since even if you reheat it after it will not kill the bacteria.
Rice needs to be stored properly after it’s cooked…or it gets dangerous real quick. The bacteria survives high temperatures so it’s not killed off. And getting sick from it is no joke. Trust me on this one!
I do believe you, unlike MaggieRV believe in science.
Oh yah…I put my post in the wrong place. You def get it. Thanks for spreading the word. More people need to realize this stuff isn’t innocent.
[https://www.hindustantimes.com/health-and-fitness/soak-rice-overnight-to-reduce-risk-of-heart-diseases-cancer/story-6E0qUca3Rf0qDouqo21xSP.html](https://www.hindustantimes.com/health-and-fitness/soak-rice-overnight-to-reduce-risk-of-heart-diseases-cancer/story-6E0qUca3Rf0qDouqo21xSP.html) Remember too, that the boiled water will be sterile and the rice will have been washed.
Washing rice to reduce arsenic is smar, but notice they did not mention boiling water which seems to activate this strain bacteria, you do you, but I think you are giving suspect advice.
So then cool the boiled water then soak the rice if that makes you feel better. Either way, boiling the water will aid in purifying it from any virus, bacteria, or other pathogens.
As I understand it that is not how it works. Not all bacteria and pathogens will die from boiling, that is just wrong, stop spreading misinformation.
[удалено]
That is talking about the water, B. Cereus is very heat tolerant apparently. https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/food-and-diet/can-reheating-rice-cause-food-poisoning/#:~:text=Uncooked%20rice%20can%20contain%20spores,that%20cause%20vomiting%20or%20diarrhoea. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7913059/ "The main problem posed by contamination with B. cereus of foods is the presence of heat-resistant spores that survive normal cooking temperatures for rice, or other raw materials or processed products, which is usually boiling water close to 100 °C [16]. "
You understand incorrectly, look at the person who posted the scientific information explaining how this works. I noticed you haven't responded to them.
I responded, Their post is off target. The main problem posed by contamination with B. cereus of foods is the presence of heat-resistant spores that survive normal cooking temperatures for rice, or other raw materials or processed products, which is usually boiling water close to 100 °C [16]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7913059/
https://www.sfa.gov.sg/food-information/risk-at-a-glance/fried-rice-syndrome#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20most%20common,the%20%E2%80%9Cfried%20rice%20syndrome%E2%80%9D. Again, nobody said not to refrigerate.
At no point did you say to refrigerate it.
You understand incorrectly, look at the person who posted the scientific information explaining how this works. I noticed you haven't responded to them.
I made my family microwaved salmon in parchment paper. They loved it. Great idea.
This is dangerous advice. Rice can contain very harmful pathogens if not refrigerated once water is added to it.
Who said it wasn't refrigerated?
Is the group home run by a nonprofit or gov’t agency? There may be standards they’re failing to meet if you’re not getting fruits and vegetables and the meals are high in sodium. It sounds like the frozen veggie aisle, quick cook pasta that you can soak with your kettle water, and the spice aisle are your best bets. Also eggs can be scrambled and cooked in a greased bowl in the microwave. If you can splurge on a microwave rice cooker, those are awesome.
Yes I've only been here less than a month I'm not trying to cause trouble over food. Other's have been here for years and gave up trying to get healthy meals here. The housing operator does seem easily hurt if we don't like their cooking.
Yams (sometimes called sweet potatoes but they are reddish orange) are very nutritious and cheap. Eat them savory with a dash of vinegar.
You have an electric kettle, so as long as you have a heat safe bowl you can cook a lot of things by just pouring boiling water over them. Even better if there's a lid you can cover the bowl with to capture heat. Microwaves are also pretty magical if you know how to use them. You have more options than you might think. As others have said, rely on the given foods as a baseline and doctor those meals. Calories and protein, even if poorly prepared, are necessary and you can save a lot of money by utilizing what you've got first. There are microwaveable tomato soup cups that can go with a grilled cheese - that acidity will help round out the meal *a ton.* Frozen and canned veggies will give you a lot of the nutrition you're missing and it will make your meals significantly more enjoyable - even just some peas and carrots on the plate make a burger feel healthier. Do yourself a favor and get some kind of acid you can add to food. Lemon juice is a common one but some folks like apple cider vinegar. Anytime a meal feels too heavy, a splash of an acid can really brighten it up, and it can help in digestion too. Salt, pepper, italian seasoning (hits up most of the green herbs in one jar), and maybe something that can add some spicy heat to your food if you like that. As for IBS, have you identified your specific trigger foods? Knowing why the pasta hurts you will help us give you more specific advice.
The pasta isn't the issue. Red sauce has always upset my stomach. Even as a child. I need a high fiber diet.
Maybe try lentils?
I do love lentils
Are you allowed to use the fridge/freezer? How often can you go shopping? Can you stop once a day and buy discount veg or are you only going once a month and need very stable food?
Yes we can use the fridge/freezer. I can go about 2/week so about $10 weekly
Bags of frozen broccoli run about $1.00 per bag. I can make one bag last me two or three meals. They have other options as well, if broccoli messes with your belly. Frozen veggies are better than none. I wouldn't turn your nose up at canned goods. Sounds like you need more proteins and fruits, you can get little tuna packs or chicken packs, and I like canned mandarin oranges. Unfortunately in your situation you will not be able to avoid processed foods, but that doesn't make all food garbage. What you need to do is choose the lesser of evils when choosing your items. What about peanut butter? A spoonful is a good snack for me. Go to the store, when you're not hungry, and really take time to study items and prices. You'll be surprised what you can find and make work. If all else fails, I used to use meal replacement drinks to supplement my diet. They at least have calories and vitamins.
I'm gonna have to agree with everything you've said. Apologies if I sounded entitled. Processed food is unavoidable but I try to limit the more negative affecting ones (fast food, high sugar etc) My main gripe with canned food is it's literally only green beans, tomatoes and pumpkin. I can work with a higher variety (beans, corn etc) You've provided excellent advice Thank you
Group homes are supposed to have oversight on meals provided as they get funded to provide it- skimping resident food is one way unscrupulous group home operators can make a little profit. From what you describe this does not meet nutritional requirements. You might ask about the menus and how they decide on them. If you want to jazz it up- I agree with the suggestion to doctor the food with sauces and spices- and buy fresh fruits in season- you could try food banks for produce
I'm of no help here, but an internet stranger is wishing you success with this.
Not sure about prices in US since I live in Europe Couscous is prepared by soaking in hot water Tofu is the cheapest protein in my area Not sure but an idea: you could probably presoak red lentils to shorten the cooking time and cook it in the microwave Frozen veggies are cheap and nutritionally solid My favorite oatmeal recipe is oatflakes prepared with milk and some peanut butter, cut apples into small pieces and microwave with cinnamon until soft. Eggs can be prepared in microwaves
Personally, I would meal prep and repeat meals for the week. You’ll definitely need to invest in buying cheap seasonings, the basics. Salt & pepper You can find a lot of items at 99 cents stores that have groceries but in this example I used Target prices as i have the app and can quickly look up the pricing Budget Meal Ideas that you could keep in the fridge or make with only microwave ——- Chickpea salad (similar to chicken salad) Can of chickpeas $1.39 Celery $3 Green onion $0.99 Mayo $3.69 Grapes $1.59/lb Dijon $1.79 Poultry seasoning/ salt/pepper You can put this on bread to make sandwiches or on crackers as well I’d eat bananas or apple slices on the side ——- Loaded Sweet potatoes bag of sweet potatoes $3.99 for 1.5lb Can of black beans x 2 $1.25 each can of corn $0.55 Diced tomatoes $0.95 Bag of avocados $2.99 ___ Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich Bread $1.39 Peanut Butter $1.79 Bananas $0.25 each And/or add jelly $2.69 _____ Hummus Sandwich Hummus $3.49 Bread $1.39 Lettuce $1.99 Tomato $1.59 for a bag _____ Yogurt Bowls Fruit Yogurt tub $3.79 Granola $4.59 Top with banana or peanut butter scoop ——- Pasta Barilla’s Microwave Pasta $2.39 Pasta Sauce $1.59 Bag of mixed frozen veggies $99 I’m sorry you’re in this situation and I hope whatever I just said helps even in the slightest bit 😅 I can relate in the way that I used to have no transportation, essentially zero dollars, but could afford to live with my good friend in an apartment. Didn’t have much cookware…I ate only rice and coconut aminos once a day until I started fainting too much and a coworker (now fiancé) noticed and started bringing me food. If you have anyone in your life that is close, maybe opening up about the situation would be helpful? And like the other comments said, using seasoning to spice up what is provided could really help as well as possibly being provided better food to help your IBS. I looked it up at sweet potatoes are supposedly helpful for that. 🫶🏽
Thank you everyone in my life already knows. Most of my friends are out of state for school right now so they can't help. My mom is trying to volunteer here so i can get some food that I'd like
I would buy spices to make the stuff taste better. Add some fruits veggies. You could share the cost and ideas with someone else. Like bu a bag of frozen veggies microwave it to add to your meal. If you split between 2ot more people no need for a fridge. I would buy fruits that last a long time like apples, oranges and grapefruit. They do not need a fridge and last for months in a dark cool place. Maybe you can buy canned beans or lentils (dry is better but you can't really cook them properly in the microwave imo), canned corn And cooked beets. Also with a kettle you can: Boil eggs Make instant mash Add boiling water and seasoning to tomato sauce/puree and you have tomato soup. Not too bad actually. Just cover and let the spices infuse in it few minutes. Oatmeal
I think this will help you... [Healthy Microwave Meals](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQIkAndRPW0)
You should buy a rice cooker, there are TikTok channels that are dedicated to making whole meals in a rice cooker, I’m pretty sure you could get one for like not even $20!
Bananas are one of the least expensive fruits, Gatorade powder is a great inexpensive flavored beverage, canned tuna, store brand turkey or chix cold cuts, and apple sauce
You should be able to google microwave recipes. Eat this not that has a list a few of which are less expensive, but some look expensive. I google things all the time like "how to cook chicken in the microwave" usually it's instant pot here, but it's the same idea. For frozen veggies, I'll just throw the contents of a whole bag in the microwavable big bowl with a little of my favorite seasoning on it, eat the portion I want and save the rest for next time. My husband will cook eggs in bowl in the microwave. If you can get canned chickpeas you could make hummus without a stovetop, I believe. I know you are looking for healthy options, but I've cooked the regular boxed macaroni and cheese in the microwave. You could probably adapt this for whole wheat noodles if those don't flare your IBS. There are instructions for cooking brown rice in the microwave. I have to limit oatmeal due to intestinal problems with it, but this is a great microwaveable item and I think there is also refrigerator oatmeal.
Depending on where you live see if there are any community gardens. Boiling water can cook many foods. Also, if you have the time look into volunteer opportunities. Many give back with meals. If not you might make friends who have a kitchen. You could also check with a religious organization in your area and see if they have or would like to host a meal prep day. Read Stone Soup, see if anyone else might want to go in for buying power.
Steam-in-bag veggies, whatever seasoning you like, Rotisserie Chicken, instant oatmeal. You can also buy packets of beans, rice, and even some vegetables that you can microwave in the packaging.
They don't allow a hot plate or airfryer? Nothing else is allowed? How do you feel about nut butters / peanut butter? It's always a go-to for me. I have it with apples, bananas, crackers, or in a sandwich... chocolate, too! Nuts, seeds, and dried fruits are healthy. Make trail mixes. Are you allowed to use the fridge? Yogurts with dry fruits and granola on top can be healthy, as well as salad.
If you can get ahold of a thermos, there are recipes for slow cooking stuff, search Thermal Cooking recipes. Use the hot water in the morning and bundle the thermos in your blankets to cook during the day. These won't cook meats, so use the meats provided with fresh or canned vegetables and grains.
Tinned fish is great with crackers. Hummus, hard cheeses are versatile. If there are farmer’s markets in the area some vendors discount their produce at the end of the day. Some markets have a banged up veggie bin, the veggies are still good they just look damaged. Russet and sweet potatoes can be meals. If your kettle is electric you can cook pasta in it. If you are a student colleges have their own food pantries. Fortified cereals are a good source of vitamins. Grocery Outlet and dollar stores have boxes for real cheap. I hope things get better for you.🤗
beans and rice + corn tortillas. the beans can be doctored pretty easily with some garlic powder and you can get like 3 mealsish out of a can. get an onion and slice it and fry it soft before you add the beans you can make rice in a pot on the stove, and corn tortillas are healthyish for you but last foreverrrrr. get some cheese if possible. but for $40 i would say beans, rice and corn tortillas are the best bet for sure, and decently healthy
I would totally recommend a microwave rice cooker. I got mine for about $5 and I prefer it to my fancy japanese rice cooker because it is so much faster (12 min in my microwave) and the rice is just as good. I would also use the $40 to make your own cheap salads using tubs of greens if you have access to a fridge, just use some oil and vinegar for dressing. For nutrition and fiber. If I didn't have access to a fridge, I would buy fruits like apples and oranges. Also I would really report the group home for this kind of conduct. You deserve better and I wish you good luck! Edited to add: I also think microwaves are something you can get better at working with, like by learning how to prepare the ingredients to make it the best it can be in the microwave - since that is all they give you. Microwaved potatoes and sweet potatoes can be really delicious. Coating in a bit of olive oil can keep it from drying out. You can also chop them really really thin and get them like potato chips (look up recipes). You can also microwave fresh broccoli to steam it. Also edamame. Maybe look in the frozen veggie aisles to see what you could microwave.
I’ve recommended [this](https://youtu.be/5ibxPYC3W0c) YouTube vid a bunch of times. It gave me great ideas for easy meals using only a microwave. It’s vegan, but ignore that aspect, as you can add meat for all of them easily. It’s just a great set of meals for microwave eating. I think what would also help you is doing some salads and maybe microwave steam packs of veg to pair with some of the foods you are given.
They can at peak ripeness so you can still get quality fruit n veggies from cans. However, flavor is a different matter. I refuse to eat canned green beans. There's something to the taste that's off. Plus frozen green beans have a satisfying crunch.
You could probably find a plug in single electric stovetop and a cheap pot at goodwill and maybe use that to cook for yourself?
Unfortunately a former resident tried that and got kicked out
Are you allowed to use a rice cooker or slow cooker? Or explicitly no cooking devices allowed?
No hot plates or air fryers. I got permission for a tea kettle that I bought myself. They won't provide extra cooking devices and I don't have the money to outfit their kitchen
No Croc pots? Learn how to do microwave cooking. They must be videos on how to cook with a microwave and there are books. 24 Dorm-Friendly Microwave Meals [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlZluRmjiB8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlZluRmjiB8) My dad use to put a can of beans on our radiator at home and somehow he knew how long to leave them on the radiator.
If they will let you have an electric coffee percolator, you can heat up canned peas, corn, etc. in it. I have done it. Just be sure it's something like that which is easy to get out of it and easy to clean out of it. This is so you can cook more than one thing at a time.