Delicious Recipes for Live-In Care: Easy and Nutritious Meals

When it comes to live-in care, cooking becomes an essential part of ensuring our clients are happy, healthy, and well-fed. But let's be honest, sometimes the kitchen can feel like a battleground, especially when you're juggling dietary preferences, varying schedules, and, of course, the odd culinary disaster. (We all remember the Great Pasta Incident of 2022, right? A burnt colander was never more missed!)

But fear not, fellow carers, because we've got two deliciously simple recipes that are sure to impress. They're nutritious, tasty, and—most importantly—easy to whip up even on the busiest of days. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Cooking with Carers - Live-in Care Recipe 1: Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pie

Winner winner...

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (Perfect for using up leftovers)

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and sweetcorn work brilliantly)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (because a little garlic keeps the vampires—and perhaps the client's nosy neighbour—away)

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 1/2 cup double cream

• 2 tbsp flour

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (shop-bought is your best friend here)

• 1 egg, beaten

• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and sauté the onion until soft and slightly golden. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. (Pro tip: Stirring gives you time to have a natter with your client about the weather, as one does!)

2. Create the Creamy Filling: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes. Slowly add the chicken stock, stirring to prevent lumps. Once smooth, add the double cream, cooked chicken, and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

3. Prepare the Pastry: Pour the creamy chicken mixture into a baking dish. Roll out the puff pastry over the top, trimming the edges. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits in the pastry to let the steam escape—no one wants a puff pastry explosion!

4. Bake to Perfection: Brush the pastry with the beaten egg to give it that golden finish. Pop it in a preheated oven at 200°C (180°C fan) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden and crispy.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Dish up a hearty slice and watch as your client’s face lights up with delight. Pair it with a side salad or some steamed greens for a balanced meal.

   
   

Anecdote Alert: Last week, one of our home carers was cooking this very pie when the cat decided it simply must be fed at that precise moment. The cat's persistence resulted in a somewhat lopsided pastry top—but the client loved it all the more, calling it "a pie with personality!"

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Cooking with Carers - Live-in Care Recipe 2: Veggie-Packed Baked Frittata

A wonderful Veggie Frittata

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 courgette, grated

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, or whatever’s lurking in the fridge)

• 1 tsp mixed herbs

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A handful of fresh spinach (optional, but it makes you feel quite virtuous)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. (Tip: This is an excellent moment to get your client involved—hand them the whisk and let them go to town!)

2. Add the Veggies: Toss in the diced bell pepper, grated courgette, chopped onion, and cherry tomatoes. Mix well. If you’re feeling fancy, throw in that spinach—it’s like a hug in green form.

3. Cheesy Goodness: Stir in the grated cheese and mixed herbs. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks like a colourful, cheesy concoction that could brighten anyone’s day.

4. Bake Away: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Place it in a preheated oven at 190°C (170°C fan) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the frittata is set and golden on top.

5. Serve and Smile: Slice into hearty squares and serve hot or cold. It’s versatile enough to be a breakfast, lunch, or dinner option—whatever your client fancies!

Anecdote Alert: One of our carers accidentally added double the cheese to this recipe once (we’re looking at you, Sarah!). The result? A frittata that was so cheesy it could have been a chat-up line. The client couldn’t stop laughing—and neither could Sarah!

Both of these recipes are sure to become regular favourites in your culinary rotation. They're simple, satisfying, and perfect for keeping both you and your client happy. Plus, they're versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand—so feel free to experiment and add your own twist.

Now, get cooking, and may your meals be as delightful as the company you keep!

Enabling. Nurturing. Aspiring.