How to Make French Dinners That Are Perfect for Meal Prep

French cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and elegant presentations. However, it can also be quite practical when it comes to meal prepping. With a few tweaks, you can enjoy delicious French dinners throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen each day. Here’s how to make French dinners that are perfect for meal prep.

1. Choose the Right Dishes

When meal prepping French dinners, select recipes that store well and taste even better after a day or two in the fridge. Some excellent options include:

  • Coq au Vin: This classic chicken dish braised in red wine improves in flavor when reheated.
  • Ratatouille: A vegetable medley that can be served as a side or main dish, perfect for using seasonal produce.
  • Beef Bourguignon: Similar to coq au vin, this hearty beef stew is ideal for meal prep as it gets richer over time.

2. Batch Cooking Techniques

Batch cooking is key when prepping French dinners. Here are some tips:

  • Cook in Bulk: Prepare larger quantities of your chosen recipes, dividing them into individual portions for later consumption.
  • Use Freezer-Friendly Containers: Invest in high-quality containers that can withstand freezing and reheating without damaging.
  • Cook Once, Eat Multiple Times: Prepare sauces or stocks in bulk, such as a velouté or béchamel, that can be used across various dishes.

3. Embrace Simple Sides

Sides are an essential part of any French meal, and they can be easily prepared in advance. Some straightforward sides include:

  • Pommes Purée: Creamy mashed potatoes that can be made ahead and reheated with a pat of butter.
  • Salade Niçoise: A cold salad that holds up well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
  • Gratin Dauphinois: Potato gratin that can be made in a large dish and simply reheated.

4. Utilize Fresh Herbs and Spices

French cuisine often relies on fresh herbs and spices, enhancing the flavors of your meals. Consider the following:

  • Herbs de Provence: A blend of dried herbs that can liven up roasted vegetables or protein dishes.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds brightness and flavor to dishes and can be chopped and stored for quick access.

5. Storing and Reheating

To maintain the quality of your French meal prep, proper storage and reheating are essential:

  • Cool Before Storing: Allow your dishes to cool completely before storing them to prevent condensation.
  • Label Containers: Use labels with dates to keep track of freshness.
  • Reheat Gently: Use low heat to reheat meals; this helps preserve texture and flavor.

6. Include French Bread and Pastries

No French meal is complete without some form of bread or pastry. While these may not be traditional meal prep items, you can still find convenient ways to enjoy them:

  • Batch Bake Bread: Make a big batch of baguettes or country bread and freeze them in individual portions.
  • Store pastries in the freezer: Croissants and pain au chocolat can be made in advance and baked fresh on demand.

Conclusion

Meal prepping French dinners doesn't have to compromise taste or tradition. By choosing the right dishes, using batch cooking techniques, embracing simple yet flavorful sides, and properly storing your meals, you can make weeknight dinners a breeze while savoring the timeless flavors of French cuisine. Happy cooking!