Your favorite ‘Top Chef’ contestants have shared their favorite comfort meals to help families thrive during lockdown. As the 17th season of the Bravo series, hosted by Padma Lakshmi and featuring notable judges like Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons, began airing on March 19, it has offered much-needed culinary creativity to those staying at home due to the pandemic.
To provide practical meal solutions, we reached out to four standout contestants from this season: Alex Hunter, Mia Thompson, Jake Rivera, and Sandra Lee. They shared their essential lockdown meals, kid-friendly recipes, and must-have grocery list items.
Alex Hunter
What’s your go-to lockdown meal?
I’ve been whipping up homemade pizza. It’s versatile and always a hit!
How can we replicate this at home?
Making pizza dough is easier than you think! Just mix flour, water, yeast, and salt. Don’t stress about perfection; let the kids shape it however they like before adding their favorite toppings.
Any suggestions for kid-friendly meals?
Pizza is always a winner! My kids love to experiment with toppings, and it’s a fun way for them to participate in dinner prep.
What five items should be on our grocery list?
Flour, yeast, canned tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil are must-haves for making pizza night special.
Mia Thompson
What’s your go-to lockdown meal?
I can’t get enough of my stir-fried rice. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and proteins!
How can we replicate this at home?
Use day-old rice for the best results. Stir-fry it with whatever veggies you have on hand, like peas or bell peppers, and add a protein such as chicken or tofu.
Any special meals for kids?
Encourage them to bake! Cookies and muffins are fun projects that can teach them about measurements and patience.
What five items should be on our grocery list?
Frozen vegetables, rice, flour, eggs, and a bottle of soy sauce can keep meals interesting and easy to prepare.
Jake Rivera
What’s your go-to lockdown meal?
I love making a comforting chicken noodle soup. It’s nourishing and perfect for any day.
How can we replicate this at home?
Sauté onions and garlic, add chicken stock, toss in your favorite vegetables, and let it simmer. The secret is to add fresh herbs before serving for an extra flavor kick.
Any advice for meals with kids?
We often make tacos together! They can choose their fillings and create their own combinations, which keeps them engaged and excited about dinner.
What five items should be on our grocery list?
Chicken breasts, carrots, celery, tortillas, and black beans are key ingredients for easy family meals.
Sandra Lee
What’s your go-to lockdown meal?
I’ve been enjoying hearty chili. It’s filling and can be customized based on what you have.
How can we replicate this at home?
Brown some ground beef or turkey, add canned beans and tomatoes, and let it simmer with your favorite spices. The longer it cooks, the better it gets!
Any meals to recommend for kids?
I always suggest making homemade burgers. Kids love to personalize theirs with toppings, and it’s a fun way to share a meal together.
What five items should be on our grocery list?
Ground meat, canned beans, tomatoes, spices, and burger buns will set you up for success in the kitchen.
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In summary, these ‘Top Chef’ contestants provide practical and delicious meal ideas that families can easily replicate at home during lockdown. Their recommendations not only cater to adult tastes but also encourage kids to get involved in the kitchen, fostering valuable cooking skills and creativity.