Can you even imagine a classic American burger without a slice of deli cheese inside? We know we can’t! But do you know How Long Does Deli Cheese Last?
Some people say deli cheese is not real cheese. Some even go so far as to say they are not food at all. We are looking at you, Gordon Ramsay! Whatever it is, there are a few recipes that require you to use a slice of American deli cheese for the best flavor. It melts easily and adds a creamy texture to your savory dish.
One of our favorite mid-day work snacks is a homemade grilled cheese sandwich. It’s quick, easy, and delicious. Plus it’s super cheap too. No wonder you will always find deli cheese in student dorms. Nothing can beat the simplicity of it.
In this article, we will discuss what deli cheese actually is, how long does deli cheeses last, and the best way to store them. If any of these topics intrigue you, keep on reading!
Deli SlicedCheese 101: What Exactly is It?
Yes, we get it, sliced deli cheese is not exactly cheese. But it’s not “plastic” food either. Just like any other processed food, deli cheese is not known for its high quality. It’s great for adding texture to your burger or sandwich. But if deli cheese isn’t cheese, what is it?
To explain this, we need to understand how cheese is made. You add rennet or some type of enzyme to the milk to create curd. The curd is then separated from the water and pressed together. This is one of the easiest types of cheese.
Haloumi, mozzarella, and queso fresco are made by kneading and stretching the curd. Some other cheeses go through a much more detailed process. And this is just the soft cheeses. Hard cheese or aged cheese has a totally different process.
What we are trying to say is, there is no such thing as an unprocessed cheese. Cheese, by default, is a processed product. So is deli cheese.
But sliced deli cheese is not made using traditional cheese-making methods. It starts off with real cheese though. But the whole thing is then blended into a paste and a lot of flavoring ingredients are added. This step is necessary to make it meltable. Otherwise, it would turn into a greasy mess when heated up.
You’d be surprised to know this process of creating American cheese actually originated in Switzerland. Their goal was to give the cheese longer shelf life. And thus deli cheese was born.
Shelf Life: How Long is Deli Cheese Good for?
Deli cheese was specifically made to survive longer in our pantry. So you can’t compare this with normal soft cheeses. How long Deli cheese last in the fridge? Quick answer: three weeks.
Even though there are unsliced deli cheeses, we all end up picking sliced ones as they are the most convenient. Sliced American deli cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life.
You can maximize your deli cheese shelf life by keeping it unopened and in the refrigerator. Do not store your cheese anywhere else. High temperature is the main cause of spoiled deli cheese.
If you happen to open the package, use plastic wrap to tightly cover the cheese.
Deli cheese can last up to 4 weeks past its expiration date if you keep it properly stored. The sell-by date is a mere suggestion. Your cheese can go bad before the date too. It all depends on how you are storing your deli cheese.
What about Swiss Cheese: How Long Does It Last?
Swiss cheese is another staple in most of our households. If you keep your swiss cheese in the fridge, it can stay fresh for up to 3-4 weeks easily.
You can freeze your swiss cheese to extend its consumption time. Keeping swiss cheese in the fridge can keep it good for up to two months. The best temperature, however, for swiss cheese is 5°C and 10°C.
Did you just find an unopened cheese pack in your fridge and don’t know if you should eat it? Well, you can figure out if it’s safe to eat or not by these easy steps:
Smell your cheese. If it smells odd or funky then the cheese is probably past its time. Yes, cheese can have a strong funky smell in general but not deli cheese. Deli cheese smells creamy and almost sweet.
Notice the color. Deli cheese is light yellow. If it turns orange for some reason then it’s not safe to eat anymore.
If you notice any fungus or molds growing on the cheese then don’t eat it. Throw the whole thing out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Sliced Cheese in the Fridge All Moldy?
Any food with high moisture content is prone to mold if you expose it to oxygen. So if your sliced cheese in the fridge looks moldy, caches are you did not store them in an airtight container. If you see molds on your cheese slices, please don’t eat them. Eating moldy cheese can cause stomach issues and heartburn.
Can You Store Cheese in the Freezer?
Depending on the type of cheese, you can store it in the freezer. But it’s better to use the quick freeze function for cheese and it retains the moisture level. Frozen cheese can last up to 10 months without any issue. We recommend not eating past 8-10 months.
Can You Freeze Cheese Slices?
Yes, you can freeze cheese slices but only if you store them right. Cover your cheese slices in parchment paper and wrap the whole cheese block in a freezer bag. Make sure each cheese slice is wrapped individually. Then use freezer paper to wrap the whole thing. Use a ziplock bag or an airtight container to store it.
How Do You Store Deli Cheese?
Deli cheeses are sliced cheese which means they go bad faster than other cheeses. As they are sliced, moisture does not stay for too long. So if you want to keep your deli cheese fresher for longer, double wrap them with either parchment paper or plastic wrap. Then put the cheese in an airtight container. This way it can last for 3-4 weeks easily in the refrigerator.
What Happens if You Eat Old Deli Meat or Cheese?
You should never eat old cheese or meat no matter the circumstances. Fresh produce goes bad rapidly depending on the climate you live in and how you are storing them. So eating old deli meat past its expiration date can cause severe food poisoning. You might suffer from fever, stomach ache, diarrhea, and vomiting. So it’s better to be safe than sorry.
What is the Difference between Deli Cheese and Packaged Cheese?
It might seem like the same thing but deli cheese and packaged cheese are quite different in terms of making and flavor. The cheese we buy from the deli counter is a processed version of real cheese. It starts off as standard cheese and then preservatives and chemicals are added. This helps to extend their shelf life. Packaged cheese on the other hand is a fully processed cheese. Some say they have less than 50% cheese in them. Packaged cheese contains more chemicals and extracts and food dye. This provides the familiar yellow color.
To Summarize
The convenience of deli cheese is how easy they are to store and how long they last in the fridge. It’s nice to have a few packs in the kitchen to throw some into a quick breakfast or snacks. Add it to sandwiches, crackers, burritos, and even on instant ramen noodles to give that salty creaminess we all love. We advise refrigerating deli cheese to keep it fresh for longer.
While a part of the culinary world is obsessed with morel mushrooms, the other half have never heard of them.
Just like the name, morel mushrooms are a very unusual member of the mushroom family. They are rare, strange to look at, and have a very distinctive and specific taste. It’s hard to recreate that flavor in any other way.
In this article, we will explore what morel mushrooms are, how to store them, and many ways to enjoy this wonderful ingredient. If you are even a little bit intrigued, keep on reading!
Morel Mushroom: What Exactly Is It?
Morel mushrooms are considered to be a delicacy in many chefs’ kitchens. They are a highly desired ingredient due to their rarity and distinctive flavors.
But what is a morel mushroom? Well for starters, they are a type of wild mushrooms that are not farmed.
Many farmers have tried to cultivate morels but it just doesn’t work. They grow naturally which means we have no control over how much morels can be collected in each season. Due to this, they are always a rare thing and are extremely expensive.
Morel mushrooms are grown in warm and wet climates. Most of the world’s morels are collected from North America and Europe.
Funny thing is, if you live in a wooded area in Europe, chances are you came by morels at some point in your life. But as they are not very noticeable, you just didn’t realize it. Fancy that!
Morel mushrooms come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can look round or oblong to bulbous. The outside of the morels looks almost like honeycombs. They have a greyish blonde color to them.
At first glance, morels do not look like something you want to eat. They almost look poisonous. If you are trying to look for morels by yourself, be careful as there are other mushrooms that look like morels but are extremely poisonous. So be careful with that.
You can definitely freeze morel mushrooms and enjoy them throughout the year. As it’s a seasonal ingredient and is quite expensive, storing them in the freezer is a great idea. Here’s our easy step-by-step guide on freezing morel mushrooms:
Clean your morels first. As they have a honeycomb texture. Dirt can get stuck inside a lot. So clean them properly.
You can slice the mushrooms in half but we prefer to keep them intact.
Now it’s time to cook your mushrooms. Boil a big pot of water and add a tablespoon of lemon juice to it. Then blanche the mushrooms for 3 minutes or until they are almost done but not fully done.
Cook them to 70%. You can also steam your mushrooms to keep as much flavor as possible. The cooking time is similar although stemming can take 5 minutes.
After it’s done cooking, remove from the heat immediately and let them cool down completely.
Then put them in a cookie sheet and freeze until they are rock hard. Then transfer the mushrooms to a freezer bag and store them in the freezer. Frozen morels can last for a few months.
You might be thinking that frozen morels would eventually go bad, but you’d be surprised at how long they last!
If freezing-dry your own mushrooms properly then the nutritional value can retain over 95%. It will be last in the freezer for 20 years. Sounds impossible but that’s actually true.
How to Freeze Morels? The Easy Guide
If you have a freeze dryer, this is the best and most efficient method of keeping morel mushrooms fresh for years.
Not only does freeze-drying keep your morels fresh for years, but it also keeps up to 95% nutritional values intact.
You might be skeptical and thinking “oh, 20 years? They must taste horrible after so long in the freezer”. But actually, no. A freeze-dried morel is indistinguishable from a fresh one. What excuse do you have to not freeze-dry them?
How to Dry Morel Mushrooms?
You can dry your morels to keep them in an airtight container for months. We love this method because it’s very easy to do. If you like to make a lot of mushroom soups or gravy, this is the best method for you.
Drying morels is easy, here’s how to do it:
Clean your morel mushrooms thoroughly. Then use a napkin to apt dry them as much as possible.
Grab a sewing needle and thread and make a sort of mushroom necklace out of it. Pierce through the steam and make sure to keep the morels distant from each other. Don’t make it longer than 15”.
Then hang it somewhere with an open window. Keep it airy so it dries properly and doesn’t get moldy.
It might take a few weeks to dry but once they dry down, all you have to do is store them in an airtight container.
Keep the container sealed to prevent any bacteria from growing inside. This method is great if you don’t have the option to freeze them.
Defrosting Your Morel Mushrooms
Defrosting morel mushrooms is actually pretty simple. One thing you don’t want to do is microwave them. Never microwave your morels. It’s a sin!
Okay not being overdramatic but microwaving actually destroys the delicious nutty flavor and texture of the morel mushrooms. You should not leave them on the countertop either.
So what to do then?
You can transfer your morel mushrooms from the freezer to the fridge and let them sit for a few hours. Depending on the amount, it will take around 1 hour to completely defrost. Then all you have to do is pat them dry and use them on any recipes needed.
There is a reason why morels are such a cherished ingredient among chefs. You can not recreate the flavor of morels in any other way. They do not taste like mushrooms per se. The flavor is closer to truffles but with a better texture.
The taste of morels can be described as nutty and smoky. It’s not intense in any way. The flavor profile is actually very delicate.
One thing you should keep in mind is to never eat raw morels. Raw morels can cause cramps, stomach issues, and heartburn. So cooking them fully is important.
But, Why are Morels So Expensive Though!
Yes yes we get it, morels are very unique and one of a kind. But does that justify its high price? Why is a pound of morel mushroom a minimum of $20? Well, there are a few reasons behind this:
Cultivation: We have already discussed it. You can not actually cultivate morel mushrooms by yourself. It is a seasonal mushroom that only grows in the wild.
It’s totally random and we don’t control how much they grow. When you can’t cultivate something and have to depend on nature, of course, it’s not going to be available in abundance
Rarity: Morel mushrooms are quite rare to come by. They do not grow just anywhere. And even when they grow, the amount is not very much.
This means you always have to look for them and travel great distances to find them. No wonder they are so expensive!
Transportation: Morels do not transport well. As they have a hollow body, they can easily get damaged. So from collecting them to transporting them to the market can be very difficult.
How to Prepare Morel Mushrooms
Step 1: Clean Them
Cleaning morel mushrooms properly is very important and can be quite tricky. As the exterior is textured and almost honeycomb-like, dirt and mud can collect in between the crevices. Here’s how to clean morel mushrooms properly:
Pour cold water into a large bowl and add a tablespoon of salt to it. You can also add lemon juice.
Dunk the morels into the water and let them soak for a few minutes.
Use a soft brush to gently wipe off any excess dirt. Then rinse them under the sink one by one. This helps to remove the salt and debris.
Step 2: Cut the Morels
Preparing morel mushrooms also includes cutting them. If you are planning to add them to stews or soup, make chunky pieces out of them. You can also cut them in two pieces and split them in the middle. Then use a paper towel to gently remove any excess moisture from them.
Step 3: Deep Frying
We love deep frying our morel mushrooms as it tastes amazing. The flavor is nothing like you have ever tasted before.
We like to keep the batter simple. So we use a mixture of egg, milk, salt, and all-purpose flour. Make a thin batter and dip each mushroom. Then fry them in a deep fryer until they turn golden brown. You really don’t need a lot of time. Just 3-4 minutes is enough.
There are a lot of ways to enjoy this top-tier mushroom but we love the simplicity of a classic mushroom sauce with steak. They taste very rich and smoky. As morels have a delicate flavor, we don’t recommend using olive oil. Use butter or canola oil to keep its natural fragrance intact.
It’s better to keep it simple when it comes to morels. They truly shine when you use only a few ingredients. So try to pan-fry them with butter and salt. Add a little pepper to enhance the flavors.
You can make a wild mushroom sauce with morels that taste fantastic with BBQs. The honeycomb texture absorbs any liquid or cream and into the sauce. So be generous with the butter as the morels will soak it all up.
How to Store Morel?
Storing morel mushrooms is pretty straightforward. As much as possible, they should be loose and well-ventilated. They shouldn’t be wet, either — so if you’re planning to store freshly washed morel mushrooms, gently pat them dry.
Store them in the refrigerator to make them last longer! Wrap them in a paper towel before putting them inside the fridge. If you’re looking into more long-term storage, it’s best if you dehydrate the morels first.
If you don’t have access to a dehydrator, you can put the morel mushrooms on a tray and dry them in an oven.
Another method is to store them by battering and freezing the morel mushrooms. Roll them up in flour before putting them in a container inside the fridge.
Still looking for another method? Saute and freeze. Let the morel mushrooms saute in some butter or oil to keep their texture and flavor for three to five minutes. Then, transfer them to a container and keep them in the fridge.
Is It Safe to Eat Morel Mushrooms?
We can understand why someone would be skeptical about morels. They look odd and poisonous. Interestingly, they are far from it.
Don’t be fooled by the looks as morels are high in zinc, vitamins, iron, manganese, and a lot of other nutrients. They have potassium, calcium, copper, niacin, vitamin B6 and E. s they are amazing for our health. If you have heart issues or high blood pressure, morels are a healthy source of proteins.
This is going to surprise you, but frozen morels last up to 20 years in the freezer! If you properly freeze-dry your morel mushrooms they can retain over 95% of their nutritional value.
Can You Freeze Fresh Mushrooms for Later Use?
Yes, you can definitely freeze fresh mushrooms and keep them stored in the freezer for months. If you properly seal, dry, and pack them, frozen mushrooms can last more than a year in the freezer. You can easily add frozen mushrooms to any dish, gravy, or soup. They taste very similar to fresh mushrooms after defrosting.
Do Morels Grow in the Same Spot Every Year?
Yes, morels actually grow in the same place every year. If you pick your morels properly and leave some spores behind, morels will keep growing year after year on the same spot. Morels enthusiasts have their “honeypot” morels-growing-places that they don’t share with anyone. Morels usually grow on the same spot for 3-4 seasons. When all the spores dry up, you need to find a new spot to collect morels.
How Fast Do Morels Grow after Rain?
Morels grow super fast after rainfall. You might see tiny heads of morels within two days of rain. But it takes them another 2-3 days to grow bigger into their final size. Some people say morels grow overnight. People think this way because morels are tricky to spot. So when they do spot them, it feels like they weren’t here the day before.
Is It Better to Freeze or Dehydrate Morels?
We think freeze-drying is the best option for morels. If you freeze-dry your morel mushrooms, they will last up to 20 years without losing much flavor or nutrition. When you rehydrate freeze-dried morels. They taste indistinguishable from fresh ones.
Do You Soak Morels in Salt Water?
You should never soak morels in saltwater. This will totally ruin the taste and texture of morel mushrooms. So don’t take this type of old-age advice from people.
How Much Do Morel Mushrooms Cost?
Morel mushrooms have quite a reputation for being expensive. As they are seasonal mushrooms, when the season passes, the price increases exponentially. Morels can cost at least $30 per pound due to their high demand and rarity. If you are shipping them from another state or country, they will cost much higher.
Takeaway
Morels are one of those rare mushrooms that can turn a mushroom hater into a fan. The texture and flavor are so unique that all you need is some salt and butter.
And there you have it. Preserving morel mushrooms is super easy to do. Freezing morel mushrooms is actually the easiest way to keep them fresh. Just make sure you don’t freeze them raw.
If you don’t want to go through all these hassles of freezing, drying, and storing, you can buy morel mushrooms online. We like the Vigorous Mountains Wild Dried Morel Mushrooms cause they come in pre-dried and sealed condition.
Craving a nice big slice of cheesecake? Philadelphia cream cheese is synonymous with a good cheesecake, but what does one do if they don’t want the fuss of baking a whole cheesecake? Make a Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake, of course!
Baking a cheesecake is a lot harder than it seems-everything needs to be beaten to perfection, you need to bake the cake in a water bath, prevent the temp from going too high, and allow the cheesecake to cool down slowly.
Even after all that, you might end up with a cheesecake that won’t hold its shape or one with a cracked top. This is why a Philadelphia cream cheese no-bake cheesecake is a fail proof way to get the perfect cheesecake every time.
Because you may have seen a different Philadelphia no bake cheesecake recipe on every corner of the internet, we’ve provided two easy recipes that will give you perfect results every time.
What is Cheesecake?
Put very simply, cheesecake is a dessert made from cream cheese, sugar, eggs, milk, and flavorings like vanilla or almond extract. There is also a crust made from crushed cookies or crackers like Digestive biscuits, Oreos, or graham crackers. The filling is poured onto the crust and then baked in a water bath.
Once your cheesecake comes down to room temperature, let it cool and set it in the fridge for a couple of hours. After cooling, your refrigerated cheesecake can be topped with things like fruit, crushed Oreos, chocolate shavings, or anything that goes well with your cheesecake flavors.
There are no strict rules on how to make the cheesecake filling. Some people add sour cream, others prefer Cool Whip. Many people add heavy cream to make an even richer filling. You can even add melted chocolate, cocoa powder, chunks of Oreos, Reese’s Pieces, Snickers, and even matcha tea.
Philadelphia cheesecake filling tends to be a little simpler because it allows the flavors of the cheesecake to shine through. The tanginess of the Philadelphia cream cheese pairs very well with the sweetness of the sugar and milk, so most of the time, you don’t even need heavy add-ons.
What about No-Bake Cheesecakes?
The best no-bake cheesecakes have the same richness and decadence without the ordeal of baking and water baths. The main difference between the fillings of baked and no-bake cheesecakes is that baked cheesecakes have eggs, while no-bake cheesecakes tend to use gelatin to hold their shape.
Besides this, there are plenty of similarities. You can make no-bake cheesecake with sour cream without Cool Whip. You can make chocolate no-bake cheesecakes, or ones flavored with strawberries, blueberries, or mangoes.
However, the best no-bake cheesecake recipe doesn’t use gelatin at all. Instead, it uses something like Cool Whip or whipped cream to give the cake its structure.
Basque Cheesecakes:
One of the trendiest cheesecakes this year is burnt Basque cheesecakes. Fluffy Japanese cheesecakes are so last year. Instead, this baked cheesecake ditches the crust and water bath to get a dessert with a caramelized, burnt surface. Meanwhile, the inside is soft and melty.
If you want a baked Philadelphia cheesecake recipe with no crust included, the Basque cheesecake may be the perfect dish for you. But if you’re after a Philadelphia cream cheese pie recipe no-bake version, we’ve got a fan-favorite classic for you.
No-Bake Cheesecake: How to Make Cheesecake without Baking
These Philadelphia cream cheese dessert recipes are fool-proof and will give you consistent results every time. They are even better than the Keebler no-bake cheesecake, and they’re much easier to make.
What do you need to make a cheesecake? Besides cream cheese, just a few extra ingredients. And even if you don’t have cream cheese, try experimenting with theseawesome alternatives!
Classic No-Bake Cheesecake:
This cake features a simple homemade cheesecake filling, and you won’t have to deal with blooming gelatin. Here’s what you got to do:
What You Need:
Ready-made graham cracker crust
8 ounces of softened Philadelphia cream cheese
1 cup of sour cream
8 ounces of Cool Whip or regular whipped cream beaten to stiff peaks
½ cup white sugar
2 teaspoons of vanilla or almond extract
Topping of choice (Optional, but fresh fruit, crushed Oreos, and chocolate shavings are always a hit!)
What You Should Do:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and flavoring extract together until it forms a smooth, shiny mixture.
Then, gently fold in the Cool Whip or whipped cream with a spatula.
Pour the cheesecake filling over your graham cracker crust, then smooth out the top with your spatula.
Cover with cling film or plastic wrap. Let it chill for at least 8 hours, or better yet overnight.
Once chilled, add your toppings and serve!
No-Bake Cheesecake Bites:
What to do with leftover cheesecake batter? Make mini cheesecake bites, of course!
Follow these steps for the cutest dish that lets you serve dessert as an appetizer.
Prep your muffin tin by lining it with your cupcake liners and set it aside.
Make your crust by tossing in your graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter into a food processor. You can also do this with a Ziploc bag and rolling pin. Crush and mix until the graham crackers resemble wet sand.
Drop 1-2 tablespoons of the crust into your cupcake liner and press it down with the back of a spoon to pack it down tightly.
Use a tablespoon or piping bag to pour your leftover cheesecake batter over the tiny crusts. You will need about 2 tablespoons of filling per cupcake liner.
Refrigerate the mini cheesecake bites for at least overnight.
Once set, add your toppings and serve. Ideal toppings include chocolate ganache, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, pie filling, fresh strawberries, and even a dollop of sour cream.
Do you have to cook sour cream topping on cheesecake to let it set? Absolutely not, and the cold sour cream will balance the rich sweetness of these mini cheese bombs.
Want to modify your fun-sized cheesecake bites? Why not toss them in the oven for 15-20 mins? Why do you bake cheesecake bites? Besides giving them that baked cheesecake flavor, it also helps them set better.
You can add melted chocolate or Nutella to flavor these mini cheesecakes. For a healthier option, replace the sugar with stevia and use a sugar-free crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to know more about no-bake cheesecakes? This section answers all the questions you may have about these super-easy, indulgent desserts.
01. How Long Do You Let Cheesecake Cool for the Best Results?
Whether you bake your cheesecake or prefer a no-bake one, it is important to let your cheesecake cool and set it in the fridge. Let your cheesecake rest for at least 6-8 hours, or optimally overnight.
02. Why is Cheesecake So Good and Irresistible?
The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, a soft and buttery crust, and decadent toppings make cheesecake a dessert you simply cannot say no to. Because of the endless combination of flavors and add-ons, most people resist the urge to scarf down 2 or more slices in one go.
03. How Long is Homemade Cheesecake Good for?
Homemade cheesecake will last up to 5 days in the fridge, baked or not. To make sure it stays fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap before storing it in an airtight box.
This article will tell you how long cream cheese stays fresh.
04. How to Make Vegan No-Bake Cheesecake at Home?
To make a vegan cheesecake crust, simply replace the butter with coconut oil. The creamy filling is made by combining soaked cashew nuts, coconut or any other plant-based milk, coconut oil, lemon juice, and maple syrup or agave nectar in a food processor.
Pour into the crust and refrigerate overnight, before topping with caramel, peanut butter, or fresh fruit.
To Sum Up
As you can see, making Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake is the easiest thing ever. The ingredients are ones you have in your pantry and the process is simple.
There’s no fuss with careful baking and you won’t have to worry about cracked surfaces ruining your cake. The next time you throw a dinner party, make this simple, but delicious dessert to take your guests’ breath away!
If you’ve been ordering the same old fried chicken every time you go out to eat, why not shake things up for a change? The next time you see broasted chicken on the menu, give it a shot.
But before you do, you may want to know: what is broasted chicken? For many, there isn’t a difference between the broasted and fried chicken. But we know better, and we’re going to spill the beans on the difference between the broasted and fried chicken.
And that’s not all! This article will show you how broasted chicken is made, its backstory, and even how you can replicate the recipe at home.
What is Broasted Chicken?Broasted Chicken Meaning
When you look at a piece of perfect chicken thigh in all its crispy golden-brown glory, you might assume it’s just good old fried chicken. But broasted chicken is made differently, and this results in a dish that is its own thing.
Broasted chicken is made by frying chicken in a pressure cooker. While there isn’t exactly a precise definition, broasted chicken can be identified by a super crunchy coating, with moist and juicy meat. Moreover, it has a distinct salty and savory flavor.
Pressure cookers meant for frying things are called pressure fryers. Broasted chicken pressure cookers or fryers have been trademarked as broasters and are manufactured in Minnesota.
But broasted chicken is more than just pressure-fried chicken. Authentic broasted chicken uses a secret blend of spices to marinate the meat, and a special batter is used to create the perfect crunchy exterior.
Want to know what else sets broasted chicken apart from other popular chicken dishes? Broasted chicken calories are much lower than BBQ or fried chicken. This is because pressure frying needs a lot less oil. As the chicken is fried under high pressure, it cooks more quickly and absorbs less oil.
The result? A much crunchier exterior without all the oil. Moreover, this flash cooking also prevents much of the chicken’s moisture from evaporating, so the insides will be softer and juicier. Also, carbs in the broasted chicken are fewer, as the batter is light and airy.
Where can one find the best broasted chicken? Believe it or not, Minnesota isn’t the only place with great broasted chicken. Broasted chicken is extremely popular in South Asia and the Middle East, with countless chains-stores and local restaurants selling the dish.
So, there’s a good chance you’ll taste the best broasted chicken of your life in a little joint in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, or Pakistan.
But if you don’t want to travel so far for some chicken, just search ‘Where can I buy broasted chicken?’ and Yelp will show you where to go.
Is Broasted Chicken Healthy？
Broasted Chicken is the perfect food if you’re looking for high-quality, delicious protein with no trans fats. A 3 ounce serving of breast meat contains 43 grams! The smaller cuts also contain plenty – 14 through 24g per wing up to thighs depending on how they are cooked (cooked ascending).
Broasted vs Fried Chicken vs Roasted chicken
If you’re still confused about the difference between broasted and fried chicken, this will clear things up once and for all. The broasted chicken vs. fried chicken debacle is actually pretty straightforward.
Fried chicken is made by deep-frying chicken in a Dutch oven, wok, or even a wide saucepan. For commercial purposes, a deep fryer is used. The process uses a lot of oil and takes a bit of extra time to give the chicken that signature golden outside and the crunch we all love.
Broasted chicken is made by deep-frying in a pressure fryer. For this purpose, you must use a Broaster which is a pressure fryer solely meant for making broasted chicken.
Making instant pot broasted chicken is literally impossible because instant pots do not reach the target temperature needed to make broasted chicken. The process uses less oil while increasing the crisp factor and is nice and soft on the inside.
On the other hand, roasted chicken is made by, you guessed it, roasting chicken at a slightly lower temperature in the oven. This means that the process takes much longer than frying or broasting chicken.
Also, roasted chicken is much less crispy than fried or broasted chicken. The surface is nice and browned, but there isn’t much of a crunch. This is because there is no breading or batter that coats the roasted chicken.
Want to know how to make broasted chicken? Before we get started, here’s a disclaimer: do not try making broasted chicken at home in your pressure cooker or instant pot. As you now know the answer to ‘how is broasted chicken made?’ you know that a pressure fryer is required.
Making fried chicken in a regular pressure cooker can be dangerous. So caution is advised.
Making Broast Chicken in a Pressure Fryer:
If you have one already, this broasted chicken recipe will become an instant favorite!
What You Need:
A big whole chicken cut into 8 pieces
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp turmeric powder
¼ tsp red chili powder
2 tsp paprika
One egg white
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ginger powder
1 tsp onion
1 tsp black pepper powder
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/3 teaspoon oregano
1 tsp white pepper powder
4 cups of buttermilk
Salt to taste
What You Need to Do:
Start by patting your chicken pieces dry and set them aside.
Mix all the dry spice powders and seasonings.
Pour your buttermilk into a very large bowl. Add half a teaspoon of your seasoning mix to the buttermilk.
After you are done marinating the chicken, take out the pieces and allow them to drain completely.
Then mix the remaining seasoning into your flour. Then, beat your egg whites until it is smooth and runny.
Dip your chicken pieces into the flour and spice mix, making sure they are completely coated.
Then, quickly dip each piece into the eggs white, before dipping into the flour again. This process of double-dipping the chicken in flour will lead to a crispier coating.
Lay the pieces of chicken onto a large tray or baking sheet and refrigerate for an hour.
Add the oil to your pressure fryer and eat up to 360F.
Drop your chicken pieces into the cooker without crowding them and close the lid.
After 7-8 minutes, open the pressure cooker lid and check to see if the chicken is cooked through. If they are still a little raw, continue cooking them for an extra 2-3 minutes.
Once they are all cooked through, set the chicken pieces on a kitchen towel to absorb extra oil. Wait 3-5 minutes and your broasted chicken is ready to serve.
Oven-Broasted Chicken:
Maybe you don’t have a pressure fryer or professional broaster. This section will look at how to make broasted chicken in the oven. And believe it or not, it’s just as crispy when done right!
What You Need:
8 large pieces of chicken
1⁄3 cup vegetable oil
1⁄3 cup butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 ½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
What You Need to Do:
Preheat your oven to 375F.
Melt your butter in a saucepan, then pour into your cooking dish with the oil, before setting aside.
In a large Ziploc container, combine your flour and spices.
Roll the chicken pieces in butter and oil mix then drop into your Ziploc bag and shake until the pieces are completely coated.
Leave the remaining butter and oil in the pan, then place the chicken pieces skin-side down.
Bake the chicken in the oiled pan at 375F for 40-45 minutes.
Turn chicken pieces over and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes longer or until the crust starts sizzling. Your chicken should have a thin coating that is very crunchy and flavorful.
This section answers any questions you might have about broasted chicken.
01. Why is It Called Broasted Chicken?
No one is sure why the founder of the first pressure fryer named his invention broasted chicken or broaster. Either way, these are the names he used to trademark his inventions, and the name has stuck to this day.
02. Why Does Broasted Chicken Taste Good?
This kind of chicken tastes better because it is crunchier, yet less dry than fried chicken. Some of the magic also lies in the secret mix of herbs and spices used by authentic broasted chicken joints.
03. Is Broasted Chicken Healthier Than Fried Chicken?
Because the process of making broasted chicken uses less oil, it is considered healthier than fried chicken.
04. Is Broasted Chicken Better Than Fried Chicken?
While this is a matter of personal preference, most people who have tried both enjoy broasted chicken much more than fried chicken.
05. Is Broasted Chicken Breaded or Battered?
Broasted chicken is coated with a relatively runny batter. It isn’t covered in breadcrumbs or dry flour, which results in an evenly coated, extremely crispy exterior.
Final Say
The rise of broasted chicken is a wonder to look back on. Born in the Midwest, this chicken dish first took the Middle East and South Asia by storm. Now, it is consumed everywhere and people no longer need to ask: ‘what is broasted chicken?’
So why not hop on this bandwagon and savor the crunchiest chicken the world has ever seen? You’ll certainly be back many, many, times in the future!
Mussels are one of the most popular appetizers at a fancy dinner. When given a choice, most people choose black mussels since these are the kind they are most familiar with.
It helps as black mussels are pretty affordable too! But have you ever wondered about the differences between green mussels vs black mussels?
This article will examine a couple of key differences between these two kinds of mussels. But that’s not all! We’ll also look at how you can cook mussels, and how you can differentiate between mussels, clams, and oysters.
If you want to learn a little more about seafood, you’ve come to the right place!
What are Mussels?
Mussels are a kind of seafood; they are mollusks with a split shell similar to oysters, scallops, and clams. They can live in both saltwater and freshwater, so mussels are pretty widely available. Mussels are a great source of lean proteins, as well as minerals, vitamins, and micronutrients.
Best of all, they are a prime source of iron and contain very little fat or carbs. They are rich in vitamin B12 and encourage the production of red blood cells and keep nerve cells healthy.
Are mussels healthy? All these reasons make them a lot more than a fancy dish on a dinner date─ mussels are super healthy and a great way to lose weight.
Types of Mussels:
There are a couple of different types of mussels. You can find these different kinds based on where you live and the season of the year. These include:
Black mussels: They are the most common kind of mussels and are pretty small; about 2.5 inches in length. Moreover, they have a mild and light flavor.
Mediterranean mussels: These mussels are large and plump and are commonly found in summer and early fall.
Green mussels: Also known as New Zealand mussels, they are very large and have a slightly intense flavor. As their name suggests, they are cultivated in New Zealand and not as easily available as black mussels.
Blue mussels: They are much smaller than Mediterranean mussels and are sometimes called blue-lipped mussels. In terms of flavor, they are extremely intense and rich.
How are Mussels Different from Other Kinds of Seafood?
Seafood newbies often get confused between mussels, clams, and oysters since they are all bivalve mollusks. Some people even get de-shelled mussels and shrimp mixed up! However, there are a couple of differences among them:
Mussels vs. Clams:
The main difference between clam and mussel lies in where they can be found. Mussels can thrive in both saltwater and freshwater. However, clams can only live in freshwater. Unlike mussels, clams have organs including a heart and circulatory system and parts of a digestive system.
Mussels vs. Oysters:
Mussels have a smooth shell with elongated ends and an oblong shape. However, oyster shells have a dull, rough exterior covered in barnacles. They are also oval-shaped. Oysters are also fleshier and bigger than mussels.
Mussels vs. Scallops:
Scallops burrow under the sand and have one convex shell and one flat shell. Unlike oysters, clams, and mussels, scallops are shucked right after harvest so they don’t stay fresh for long.
Green Mussels vs Black Mussels: How They’re Different
There are a few major ways in which New Zealand mussels vs black mussels differ. Let’s look at green mussels first:
Green or New Zealand mussels are harvested in New Zealand. They are very large, much bigger than blue or black mussels, and also have a meatier texture. On average, they are about 6-inches in length, which also contributes to their price tag.
These mussels are chewy and firm, yet tender when steamed or pan-fried. They aren’t very intense in flavor and can be a little sweet.
Green mussel’s nutrition profile is quite impressive; they contain antioxidants, omega-3-fatty acids, zinc, iron, and selenium.
On the other hand, black mussels can be found and harvested in many different countries, so they are available everywhere. This makes them very affordable all year round.
They are 2.5 inches long, so are quite small. They look similar to blue mussels but their dark color identifies them as black shell seafood. Furthermore, they have a very strong and intense flavor which many seafood lovers enjoy.
Like green mussels, they are soft and tender. However, they are less chewy when compared to green mussels. You can find them fresh in fish markets or frozen in grocery stores.
Cooking Mussels
Preparing mussels is pretty easy, especially if you know what you’re doing.
Steaming:
The most common and foolproof way to cook mussels is to steam them. If you aren’t sure how to cook green mussels, this is the way to go as it preserves the texture and flavor. When steamed in a small amount of water, with additions like aromatics, white wine or beer, and butter the mussels remain tender and chewy.
Also, if this liquid is cooked down first before steaming, the mussels are infused with flavor. They also release liquid as they steam which drips into the cooking liquid to form a rich broth that you can eat with bread or on its own.
Pan Roasting:
This is another cool way to prepare mussels. Heat a cast-iron skillet on high and add a little. Add your mussels and season with salt and pepper; tossing and stirring until the shell opens. Remove quickly to avoid overcooking and add a squeeze of lemon before serving.
Grilling:
Including mussels on your BBQ is always a refreshing change from heavy meat. Simply heat your grill until hot, then place the mussels on your cooking grate. Grill until they open and serve right away.
Below you will find answers to questions that are often asked about mussels.
01. What Do Mussels Taste Like?
Mussels have a very faint hint of the ocean in terms of taste. The meatiness reminds many people of chicken, but mushrooms are a better comparison. They are rather sweet with no ‘fish’ flavors.
02. Are Mussels Good for a Healthy Diet?
Mussels have no carbs and are a good source of protein and minerals. When steamed, they are quite healthy and good for you.
03. Why are My Mussels Slimy?
Slimy mussels are an indicator of stale mollusks that were caught a long time ago. To avoid this issue, make sure to buy freshly caught mussels from an open market.
04. Can I Eat the Black Stuff in Mussels?
Back or green things inside mussels are the plankton and algae that the mussel did not yet digest. While they aren’t harmful, they don’t taste good. So it is best to remove them while cleaning the mussels, or before serving.
05. Why Won’t My Mussels Open after Cooking?
If your mussels remain closed even after steaming or grilling, this is a sign they are no good. These mussels have been dead for a while, so eating them will cause serious food poisoning and even infectious diseases.
Final Say
Regardless of which side you fall in the green mussels vs. black mussels debate, there’s no doubt they are both great in their own way. For a regular meal, black mussels are a great option as you can find them anywhere and they are quite affordable. For a treat, do try green mussels at least once ─ they are simply spectacular!
Pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby is supposed to be one of the most joyous times of a woman’s life. But often, new mothers are left exhausted between feedings, endless cycles of laundry, and trying to heal their bodies.
In the middle of all this, meal times involve a tasteless microwave dinner or takeout from the nearest (and often unhealthiest) burger joint or Thai restaurant. And the cycle of exhaustion continues, because you aren’t providing your body with the things it needs.
Instead, why not give a meal delivery service for new moms a try? These companies provide ready-to-eat or quick-cooking meals that will have a nutritious lunch/dinner ready in under 15 minutes!
This article will introduce 3 meal delivery services for expecting or postpartum moms, so you can decide which one is suited for your needs. With meals sorted out for the week, you can focus on self-care or bonding with your baby!
Why Choose a Meal Delivery Service for New Moms?
Groceries, storage, meal planning, and cooking are a whole process. Meal delivery for new parents gets rid of all this mess. Instead, they provide you with meals or fresh ingredients plus recipes.
You either heat a meal in our microwave, or throw everything into a pan, and voila! Your meal is ready without all the work and prep.
But convenience isn’t the only benefit. A meal service for new moms also contains balanced nutrients and enough macros to fuel your hectic schedule. New moms need plenty of carbs and proteins to repair their bodies, and breastfeeding moms need even more.
You also have access to different meal plans that suit your needs. Maybe you want to eat normally. Maybe you’re trying to lose weight and get your pre-pregnancy body back. Chances are, there’s a healthy meal plan for you.
More importantly, these services free up a lot of time that would be spent getting groceries or cooking. You can use this time to do other chores, work out, or nap with your baby.
With all that being said, let’s look at what food delivery for new parents has to offer.
Services Delivering Prepared Meals for New Parents
These are just a few meal delivery services that are helpful for new or expecting parents.
Dinner time is always a pain in the neck, and doubly so for new parents. Whether you’re working or on maternal/paternal leave, dinner is chaotic. You’ve used up all your energy during the day and you’re in no mood to cook.
Instead of cracking open a pack of ramen, why not try Gobble’s dinner kits? Signing up takes minutes; all you need to do is choose your meals from the menu. The food is prepped by chefs, so all you need to do is cook the meal following the recipe card.
And just like that, dinner will be ready in 15 minutes max, without all those dirty dishes. You can skip a week or more when needed or even cancel the service whenever you want.
Meal Plans:
Depending on your dietary needs and personal preferences, you can choose between two meal plans. Regardless of your choice, your dinners will arrive once a week in secure packaging. Your Gobble box will also come with recipe cards for each meal, nutrition information, and ice packs to keep the ingredients fresh.
Classic: These contain hearty meals that nourish your body and soul and are ready in no time at all. They have a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins sourced from chicken, seafood, and pork. Meals are also loaded with colorful leafy green veggies and flavorful sauces.
You can expect to see meals like lemon gnocchi with cheese and herbs, Cheesy baked pastels with lentils, and chicken marsala with broccoli and mushrooms.
Lean and Clean: If you’re looking to undo some of the damage done by takeout dinners, this plan is for you. It features easy-to-cook healthy meals, crammed with lean proteins and healthy fats. Each meal has an average of 600 calories, and there are no grains or refined sugar.
The meals are still tasty and made from carefully sourced ingredients that have been carefully prepared and are ready to cook. You will still feel fulfilled and energetic with these lighter meals, without all the extra calories!
Other Perks:
Gobble lets you choose dinners for 2 or 4 people, so it is a good option if you have young kids. The menu is diverse, which makes it useful when dealing with picky eaters. Also, the meals are customizable, and you can season food to your taste as you cook.
If you have allergies, the meal kits can eliminate dairy, soy, nuts, and gluten-containing ingredients, and pack them separately in a kit. You can select up to 4 recipes per week, so it covers weeknight meals.
Gobble also has a range of gift cards you give to other expecting mothers or just busy people who don’t have the time or energy to cook a meal from scratch.
All Gobble meals cost the same and the price is pretty affordable when considering the quality of the ingredients, the convenience of the meals, as well as their excellent variety and taste.
Whether you want a pregnant meal delivery or are a tired new mom, Gobble certainly won’t let you down!
If you want to get the cooking out of the way altogether, Freshly is the postpartum food delivery service for you. They deliver fully prepared, ready-to-eat meals that taste good and are rich in healthy nutrients.
With Freshly, you can choose to get 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 meals a week sent to your home. These meals come in individual portions so they are great for first-time parents. The meals arrive, ready to eat and you can freeze the meals you plan on eating later in the week.
These meals can be heated up in a microwave, but this can mess up the flavors and textures. Instead, try to heat them in a non-stick skillet or oven. Either way, your meal will be ready in just 3 minutes!
Menu:
Freshly features several classic comfort foods, as well as exciting Asian and Mexican dishes that guarantee to keep you interested in your food.
Crafted Classics: These contain classic Freshly dishes that are homely and comforting. Dishes include mac and cheese, turkey chili bowls, stroganoff. These timeless dishes are rich and filling and are some of the people’s all-time favorites.
Signature Collection: Consisting of Freshly core meals, they are fancy without being too indulgent. Hearty stews, thick paella, and luxurious steaks are some of the meals you can select from this menu.
FreshlyFit: If you’re trying to eat healthier, Freshly has something for you too. This postpartum meal delivery service has dishes that are low-cal without skipping any essential nutrients you need. They have no carbs and instead include things like cauliflower rice, paleo pulled pork, lean meats, and lots of veggies.
Takeout Twists: Looking for a lighter version of your favorite takeout meals? The hoisin chicken, tandoori, teriyaki bowls have the same great taste without all the sugar and MSG.
PurelyPlant: There are three vegan meals in their plan. While this isn’t enough for vegans, it is a good option for those who want to gradually shift to more plant-based meals. These dishes are pretty tempting, with a colorful plant-based burger served with a sweet-sticky carrot jam and sauteed summer vegetables.
The Indian chickpea bowl features hearty curry, basmati rice, and veggies. There is also a deconstructed vegan burrito with salsa and a plant crumble.
Other Perks:
If you want more food or extra sides, you can also order extra proteins like meatballs, steak, and chicken breasts. You can also order extra portions of mains like mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, and mac & cheese.
Freshly meals can be customized to fit gluten-free, keto, and low-carb diets. As far as price goes, they are pricier than home-cooked meals but way cheaper than takeout. The plans are also more affordable compared to other meal delivery services.
The ingredients are sourced with consideration and the meals are made with less sugar and fewer processed ingredients. I also liked how they sneak lots of vegetables into each dish, so you consume healthier meals without really thinking about it.
If you refer a friend and they sign up, you earn $30 dollars. You can also give someone a Freshly plan as a gift. Just choose their location as your shipping address, and Freshly will deliver the meals you’ve selected.
Pregnancy meal delivery services focus on nourishment, but many new moms want something to help them slim down after childbirth. Many look for ways to care for themselves in a way that isn’t fussy or time-consuming.
Sakara Life offers you a two-for-one deal. These meals are vegan (another plus point for many) and are the definition of healthy. They contain no sugar or empty calories and use the very best ingredients. The food is beautiful and will make you feel like you’re at a trendy spa/health resort.
You can select whether you want 2 or 3 meals a day, whether you want food for 2, 3, or 5 days each week. If you want to test out the service, choose to get meals for one, two or, four weeks, or subscribe to keep getting meals.
Programs:
There are 3 programs that you can select from. However, unlike the other meal delivery services, you can’t select the dishes individually.
All dishes are plant-based, organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and contain no dairy or refined sugar. They are freshly packed and ready to be eaten, although heating the curries and soups is a good idea.
Signature: This is the best option for new mothers as it is nutritionally designed to give you all the things you need. The meals are mostly salads, fresh fruit, soups, and vegan bowls crammed with nuts and legumes.
There are also lots of dishes inspired by Middle Eastern dishes, Japanese noodle bowls, and Asian curries. For breakfast, you get things like fresh fruit, berry spreads, and whole-grain nut breads.
The assortment of bright and flavorful sauces and light dressings keep meals exciting. Unlike typical vegan meals, these taste amazing and make you feel better as you eat.
While giving you an energy boost, the Signature program helps you lose weight, gets rid of bloating, and helps clear out your skin.
Detox: If you’re further along the line and have weaned your little one, the Detox program might be what you need to bounce back into shape. This diet cleanses you from the inside by eliminating inflammatory foods while encouraging your body to burn unwanted fat.
These meals include a blend of whole foods and light soups, together with detox drinks, digestive teas, and supplements that keep you feeling on top of things.
You can learn more about Sakara Life’s programs here.
Other Perks:
Sakara is more than just a meal service—it’s a whole lifestyle. The gorgeous meals will make you feel special and are a great form of self-care. Besides that, you can order healthy snacks like dark chocolate and popcorn.
The brand also sells energy, metabolism, beauty, and detox bars for you to munch on between meals. The metabolism powder is great if you are trying to reduce bloating and other tummy issues.
Last but not the least, the detox and beauty water drops can be added to your water or tea to make sure you are getting all the minerals needed. At the same time, they strengthen hair and nails and keep your skin healthy.
Sakara’s philosophy also goes against calorie-counting, so you can relax and eat these healthy meals without crunching numbers. The meals for the day are pretty balanced, so you end up with a hearty curry for lunch and a light salad for dinner.
The dishes are extremely colorful, chock-full of water and healthy fats. The ingredients are sustainably sourced, from ethically harvested produce.
At the end of the day, Sakara is quite pricey compared to other meal delivery plans, but with all its benefits, the price is justifiable. And after all, as a new mom, you deserve to treat yourself to these amazing meals.
Other Meal Delivery Programs for Mothers
The adults aren’t the only ones who need a meal delivery service. If you’re a first-time mom, introducing your baby to other food can be scary and exciting. Why not make sure they are sampling the very best food out there?
Little Spoon delivers homemade baby food using top-notch fruits and veggies. You can introduce your baby to the best pureed foods, without any GMO produce or preservatives. Also, there are also lots of options available, so your child won’t get bored.
Yumi happens to be another great meal delivery service for moms with young babies. It sends homemade baby food to your door every week. These meals range from pureed single foods to bite-sized meals for older babies.
These services are a great way to introduce babies to different flavors and textures. Best of all, they are all-natural and contain none of the suspicious ingredients found in canned baby food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about meal delivery services for new mothers? Find your answers here!
01. Can I Refrigerate My Meal Kits?
Yes, you can store your meal kits in the fridge for a few days. Anything you plan on eating after 3 days should go in the freezer.
02. What Nutrients Should Meals for Mothers Contain?
Your meals should have lots of lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables. You should also make sure they have enough vitamins and minerals.
03. How Long Do Yumi Jars Stay Fresh?
You can refrigerate Yumi jars for 7 days, and they will remain safe to heat.
04. Can I Lose Weight With Sakara Meals?
Sakara meals help shed unwanted fat and water weight, so you will lose weight if you stick to their plan for some time.
05. Can I Stay Healthy on a Vegan Diet as a New Mother?
Yes, there are plenty of expecting and new mothers who are on a vegan or plant-based diet. The important thing to remember is that you need to consume lots of beans, nuts, and lentils to make sure you are getting enough proteins. You should also take supplements to make sure you are getting the recommended dose of vitamins and minerals.
The Bottomline Is…
There are countless resources to help new mothers and pregnant women get the meals they need without all the work. Whether you opt for a meal delivery service for new moms mentioned above or choose something like FreshDirect, make sure you are getting enough to eat.
Either way, you’ll have some extra time you can use to snuggle your baby, get back to your hobbies, or get a few of the endless chores out of the way. Best of all, you can catch up on some sleep, which makes these meal plans absolutely worth it.
It’s happened. You’ve decided to get into bodybuilding.
Whether you want to make it a career thing, a hobby, or a path to a healthier body, bodybuilding is a dramatic change in lifestyle. Bodybuilders give up things like smoking, drugs, and unhealthy food, replacing them with lean meals, weightlifting, regular workouts, and lots of sleep.
The shift in lifestyle can be stressful for many, especially cooking and eating healthy dishes. Many people who are more used to sugary, carb-heavy processed meals do not know how to buy and prepare healthy ingredients.
But what if you didn’t have to? Meal delivery services provide ready-to-eat meals that are light, healthy, and packed with all the good stuff. You just have to heat and serve! There are countless meal delivery options for different dietary needs: vegans, keto, diabetic-friendly.
So why not choose a bodybuilding meal prep delivery plan? This article goes into 3 fitness meal delivery services: Mighty Macros, Muscle Meals 2 Go, and Trifecta. You’ll be able to pick the plan that works best for you and sign up right away!
When it comes to premade bodybuilding meals, many people complain about bland food without much variety. Might Macros flips the switch and provides meals that take you across the globe, from flavorful Panang curries to Jalapeno Chimichurri Chicken.
These meals have been designed by dieticians and chefs who use the freshest, locally sourced meals to create a culinary experience that you are minutes away from savoring. While most dishes are meant to be heated in a microwave, you can also use your oven or stove.
Meal Plans:
Mighty Macros comes with 4 different meal plans that are suited to your fitness goals or dietary preferences. Each plan can be customized to accommodate Paleo, Keto, Nut-Free, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, and free from specific allergens.
Weight-Loss:
This is a good baseline for those wanting to shed unwanted pounds and fat. The meals in this plan contain 350 calories and are low in carbs. You will see quick results and will be able to watch your waistline melt away.
Sculpt:
Want to turn that belly fat into muscle? These high-protein, low-carb meals will help you lose weight and tone your body, gaining muscle mass in the long run.
Perform:
If you are focusing on exercises like cardio and weightlifting, you need a high-calorie diet with lots of proteins and carbs. These meals are packed with rice, fish, and meat that will fuel your workouts and give you the stamina and power you need.
Gain:
Maybe you aren’t looking to lose weight. Perhaps you need to gain weight on your bodybuilding journey. If you’re out of ideas for meal prep ideas for muscle gain, sign up for this carb-heavy plan. The calories and protein will have you gaining muscle mass in no time!
Might Macros: Why They’re Worth It
This brand provides the best bodybuilding meals delivered to your door. Besides tasting great, these meals are rich in protein and feature lots of fish and lean meats. More importantly, the ingredients are top-quality: fresh, with no added sugar, MSG, or processed additives.
They are also great for portion control-small enough to be healthy, large enough to keep you full so you won’t crave snacks between meals.
Signing up for this bodybuilding food delivery is super easy. Just provide your location and payment information, select a meal plan, and choose the number of meals you want to be delivered per week. These range from 7 meals a week to 24 meals a week.
These fitness and ready meals come in a box with secure, insulated packaging and are kept cool with ice packs. Even if you aren’t home during delivery, your food will stay fresh until you return.
Compared to other fitness meal prep companies, Mighty Macros is cheaper, making it a more affordable option for beginner bodybuilders.
Muscle Meals 2 Go
Meal prep for muscle gain is a real chore, but Muscle Meals 2 Go makes things easier. There are two ways to select your meal plan: by meal or by your fitness goals. At the same time, you can select meal plans that are vegan and Paleo.
As far as bodybuilding meals delivered to your door, Muscle Meals 2 Go offers the most variety and flexibility in terms of meals.
Meal Plans:
Here’s a quick peek at some of the more popular meal plans and goal-oriented programs that you can choose.
Classic:
This is the standard plan that those with no special dietary requirements select. You can choose your meal size depending on whether you want to gain or lose weight, as well as the level of physical activity.
Also, bodybuilder meals recipes are balanced with the right amounts of fish/meat, carbs, and veggies. Best of all, you can choose your protein size depending on your bodybuilding goal; whether you want to stay fit, lose weight, or build muscles.
Keto:
The keto meals are meant for low-carb diets and contain lots of healthy fats and balanced proteins. This plan is ideal for those wanting to lose weight quickly by restricting their carbohydrate intake.
These meals contain no sugar or grains, instead, these meals focus on meats and veggies for a nutrient-dense diet.
Vegan:
Who says you can’t be a bodybuilder with a vegan diet? The plant-based meals in this plan contain lots of protein and fiber. Besides being healthy for your heart, you can lose fat and gain muscles with these meals.
Other Meals:
Besides meal plans, you can also order snacks, XL meals, and breakfasts. There is also an a la carte menu, where you can buy ingredients by the pound and prep at home. Want bodybuilding turkey chili, but it’s not in the week’s meal plan? Order some ground turkey and make it yourself!
Similarly, organic and chemical-free wild rice, fusilli pasta, and protein muffins are a great way to curate your own bodybuilder lunch box. And if you want a treat, the keto cheesecake bites, chocolate PB bombs, and light parfaits are tasty and guilt-free.
Muscle Meals 2 Go: Why They’re Worth It
One of the biggest advantages of this meal service is that, unlike many other fitness meal prep companies, they don’t have an auto-ship option. This means there is nothing to cancel so you can quit any time.
However, it can be annoying to sit down and re-order each week. But it does allow you to customize your weekly meals depending on your mood and cravings.
Because it isn’t a subscription service, you need to log in, choose your meal plan, add it to your cart and select a convenient delivery date. The food is prepared fresh and shipped to you in a box, with your meals in a tray.
These meals are meant to be heated in a microwave, but an oven makes them taste better. What sets Muscle Meals 2 Go apart is that the taste and texture are exactly the same as a freshly prepared home-cooked meal!
Their plans are also relatively affordable. Whether you want to lose weight, stay fit while training, or bulk up, Muscle Meals 2 Go will help you reach your goals.
Trifecta Nutrition
Bodybuilder dinner recipes can be boring and repetitive. Trifecta offers prepared meals that make mealtimes quick and convenient. If you aren’t sure which meal plan is right for you, their website has a quiz that can get you started.
Whether you want workout meals delivered to your home, or you just want to eat healthier, Trifecta is a solid option. You can choose between the 3 meals of the day and whether you want meals for 5 or 7 days.
Meal Plans:
Trifecta Nutrition uses organic, sustainably sourced ingredients that are good for your body, the environment, and local farmers. They have a rotating menu, so your taste buds won’t ever get bored!
Clean Meal:
These organic meals are lovingly prepared without extra salt and sugars, devoid of empty calories. These clean meals are great for both those wanting to lose weight, as well as those who want to gain muscle mass.
Made from wholesome ingredients, you won’t find any processed ingredients, preservatives, and artificial flavor enhancers. Instead, the meals consist of lean proteins like white meat and fish, whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
Paleo:
Paleo dishes can be difficult to source and get boring pretty fast. However, this plan makes paleolithic dieting a walk in the park.
Besides no sugars, chemicals, and processed ingredients, these meals are free from gluten, dairy, soy, and legumes. Instead, you get the best of a hunter-gatherer diet; fresh fruits and vegetables, ethically sourced meat, and fresh seafood.
Keto:
Keto meals are a great way to lose lots of weight quickly. Each meal in this plan averages a net of 9g of carbohydrates and 35g of protein. All the meals are gluten-free and free from carbs, yet will leave you feeling satisfied.
At the same time, you will get a lot of healthy fats sourced from nuts, high-fat meats, plant-based oils, and nutritionally dense vegetables.
Vegan:
A vegan powerlifting meal plan seems a bit unusual, but Trifecta’s vegan meals will provide you with everything you need to bulk up and lift those weights. They contain lots of plant-based proteins including nuts, seeds, legumes, and grains.
A well-balanced vegan meal will balance out the proteins with carbs and healthy fats. Each meal has around 425 calories. Everyone wins; your body stays fit and healthy, and you contribute to fewer carbon emissions.
Vegetarian:
A plant-based diet is one of the easiest ways to get fit. Balancing fats and proteins, and containing enough carbs to fuel your workouts, the organic fruits, veggies, and grains make for a wholesome, healthy meal.
Although these meals are meatless, you will get your required proteins from things like beans, chickpeas, whole grains, and things like tofu, and ethically sourced eggs. These meals are also dairy-free, so if you’re lactose-intolerant, this is a win for you!
Other Offerings:
Besides ready-to-eat meals, Trifecta Nutrition offers other dietary ingredients that will help you maintain a healthy diet. Want a bodybuilders food prep meal made easy? The meal prep option delivers ingredients like proteins/veggies/carbs so you can quickly make dishes yourself.
You can get things like shredded chicken, bison flanks, and fish fillets that you can season and cook the way you want. You can also get portions of veggies like asparagus, broccoli, and portobello mushrooms.
There is also a meal prep kit for families and multi-person households. Since the meals come in bulk, they cost less and save you some money. The Meat Lover’s meal kit is also a great option for bodybuilders looking to gain muscle mass through a protein-dense diet.
Furthermore, you can get cooked items that you can use to build your own meals. Unlike many other meal delivery services, you can get more ‘exotic’ proteins like elk and venison along with the more traditional turkey, chicken, and seafood options.
If you don’t like meat but crave a juicy burger, they also deliver Beyond Meat patties. You won’t even know that it isn’t real meat!
Trifecta Nutrition: Why They’re Worth It
This brand is high on sustainably sourced ingredients. As a result, the produce is organic and freshly picked, the meat, fish, and eggs are from humanely raised animals.
Besides this, they offer plans to fit a number of different dietary options like vegan, keto, and paleo. If you are looking for snacks to munch on between meals, they have spiced nuts, and a delectably rich cinnamon walnut bread.
Whether you want to lose weight, gain weight, or maintain the weight you’re at, Trifecta has a meal plan for you. You can even switch things up and use their meal prep kits to cook dinner once in a while if you don’t feel like eating something pre-made.
Signing up for a meal plan is easy, and Trifecta offers free shipping with their meals. You can cancel anytime you want to!
Because of the high-quality ingredients and unusual protein offerings, this meal plan delivery can be a little more expensive compared to Mighty Macros and Muscle Meals 2 Go. However, the price is well worth it, considering the fresh ingredients and tasty meals.
What Your Bodybuilding Meal Delivery Service Should Offer
Regardless of the meal delivery program, you sign up for, meal services for bodybuilders should have the following features:
High protein and high carb meals that will keep you fueled during workouts.
Filling meals that will help you avoid snacking and sneaking in empty calories.
Natural ingredients that are free from refined sugars, processed ingredients, and additives.
Calorie-dense meals that build muscle mass instead of fat.
Flexible meal plans for dietary choices like Keto, Paleo, and plant-based diets.
Still Have Questions?
Here you will find answers to questions people often have about bodybuilding meal prep delivery services.
01. What Kind of Meal Prep Plans Can I Find for Bodybuilding?
There are two main kinds of meal delivery services. The first kind provides ingredients and recipes that you can then cook yourself. The second (and more convenient option) are premade meals that you just need to heat and serve.
02. Are These Pre-Made Meals Seasoned?
Yes. While low in salt, many of these meals are seasoned with healthy spices like cumin, turmeric, nutmeg, and cinnamon are used to flavor the food. A selection of healthy oils like olive, almond, avocado, and coconut are used in cooking and are loaded with antioxidants.
03. Can I Add Extra Spices and Seasonings to These Meals?
It is recommended that you don’t add things like salt, sugar, and MSG to your precooked meals. Instead, season with things like garlic powder, black pepper, Italian, or Cajun seasoning.
04. Which Meal Delivery Service is Best for Vegans?
Muscle Meals 2 Go and Trifecta Nutrition offer vegan meals that are pre-cooked and ready to eat.
05. What are Some Other Meal Delivery Services for Building Muscle Mass?
Meal prep delivery services like Snap Kitchen and My Fit Foods, Territory Foods, and Factor 75 are great options for people looking to lose weight, gain muscle, or stay at a healthy weight while they undergo intensive workouts.
In a Nutshell
When you think about it, meal prep services take out the hardest part of staying on a healthy diet; buying and cooking healthy ingredients and turning them into a tasty dish. And doing it over and over again. But a bodybuilding meal prep delivery takes care of all that so you can focus on working out and gaining muscle mass.
Whether you choose Mighty Macros or Trifecta Nutrition (or something else altogether), it is important to go for a plan that will provide you with filling, high-calorie meals that are packed with proteins, carbs, and nutrients. Either way, watch your belly fat dissolve and your muscles build up in no time.
That was the easy part. The hard part is creating a meal plan, hunting down low-calorie recipes, buying all your ingredients, and prepping your meals.
This is an impossible task for many people, especially if you work long hours at a stressful job. It is where most folks falter and give up on their diets and go back to unhealthy processed junk.
But meal delivery plans and services have changed the way we approach our diet since they deliver ready-to-eat meals straight to your door. You just sign up, choose your meal plan, and the food is there; ready to be served after heating in your microwave or oven.
With countless meal delivery plans out there, it can be quite confusing which one to pick. This article goes into a Diet to Go vs Bistro MD comparison, as they are two of the most popular meal delivery services among people trying to eat healthier.
What Diet-to-Go Has to Offer
This company was founded in 1991 by Hilton Davis, who wanted to provide easily cooked, affordable, and balanced meals to the working population. Diet-to-Go creates meals that take under 3 minutes to heat up and serve.
But that’s not all. There are 500 recipes in this program, and customers have raved about how good they taste. As a result, you won’t get bored or demotivated halfway through your diet, and you will look forward to mealtimes instead of dreading them!
Here are a few other features of this service that are bound to catch your eye:
Meal Plans:
Diet-to-Go offers 4 different meal plans that cater to dietary requirements and personal preferences. All meals can be customized after you place your order.
Balance:
Balance meals are the most common option, providing healthy, balanced dishes that provide an adequate caloric intake without any extra fats, sugar, and other harmful ingredients. These dishes are great for those on a pre-diabetic diet, as well as those with heart issues.
Above all, it is great for those on a diet, as the meals are delicious, nutritious, and rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Meals on this program include Mediterranean Tapas, Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl, and Mushroom Strata.
Balance-Diabetes:
This is the diabetes-friendly version of the balanced meal plan. If you want to lose weight and have diabetes, this is the plan for you. These meals are low in carbs, with a very controlled amount of sugar and salts.
You can expect dishes like Lemon Herb Chicken, Green salad, and Blackened Salmon. These meals are great for controlling blood sugar without leaving you hungry.
Keto-Carb30:
These meals are carb-restrictive and adapted to suit a Keto or Atkins diet. With this plan, you will consume just 30 grams of carbs per day on average. With an abundance of meat, eggs, and cheese, you will lose weight quickly by replacing carbs with healthy fats.
This plan is perfect for those who want to lose a lot of weight in a short time. It is also a good option for those with PCOS. Beef casserole, herbed Tilapia, and a variety of omelets and quiches are just some of the meals you get from this program.
Vegetarian:
If you are a vegetarian or are trying to shift to a plant-based diet, this plan will suit your dietary needs. They provide calorie control and heart-healthy meals, limited in sodium, fats, and carbs. From this plan, you will get your daily protein requirement from eggs, legumes/nuts, and dairy.
Soy stir-fries, chickpea burgers, frittatas, and veggie pizzas are some of the meals you get from the vegetarian meal plan.
Flexible Meal Programs:
Signing up for a meal plan is very easy. Diet-to-Go allows you to choose between a full-week program that provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the whole week. You can also select a plan where you get meals for 5 days, covering the workweek.
Best of all, you can customize your plan and select meals 5 weeks in advance. You can choose to get 2 or 3 meals per day. The meals are delivered once a week, and you can store perishable items in your fridge.
But the fun doesn’t stop here. New customers get a 20% discount on their first week of meal plans and you can choose to pause or stop your deliveries any time you want, without any hassle.
High-Quality Ingredients:
Diet-to-Go guarantees premium ingredients and uses organic fresh produce whenever possible. Their meals are free from MSG and other harmful additives and preservatives.
You can learn more about this meal delivery service here.
What BistroMD Has to Offer
BistroMD was started by a bariatric surgeon in 2005 and provides easy to serve meals that contain the right macronutrients. Made from natural ingredients, these meals deliver 1200 calories a day for women, and 1400 calories for men.
They have 150 recipes and deliver meals once a week. The meals take around 5 minutes to prepare for eating.
Meal Plans:
Standard:
This is the basic program meant for those looking to lose weight. These meals are made from natural ingredients. You can get things like Grain waffles, scrambled eggs, and Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon. BistroMD also offers healthy snacks like cheesecakes, buns, and decadent bars.
Gluten-Free:
Celiacs often find it hard to find a diet that is gluten-free. The meals on this program do not contain any rye, barley, wheat, or synthetic gluten substitutes. They are rich in lean proteins, potatoes, and eggs, so you can lose weight in a healthy way.
Oatmeal, scrambled eggs, chicken cacciatore, and similar dishes are just a few of the things this menu includes.
Heart-Healthy:
If you want to get a healthy ticker, this is the program for you. These meals have next to no cholesterol, very little sodium, and plenty of healthy fats and nutrients. Best of all, dishes like blackened chicken, creamy sauces, and enchiladas are healthy, yet taste amazing!
Diabetic:
Like Diet-to-Go, BistroMD had a diabetic-friendly meal plan that controls the intake of sugar and carbs. This menu contains plenty of lean proteins to keep you full and fit. Heart stews. Shepherd’s Pie and lasagna will help you lose weight, and keep things that way.
Menopause:
Specifically designed for women, these meals help lose weight while managing the effects of hormonal changes. They are low in carbs, high in healthy proteins, and rich in nutrients and minerals to keep energy levels up.
Flexible Meal Programs:
BistroMD contains different meal plans that you can customize to your lifestyle. A full program covers almost 3 meals each day for a week, while you can also get a full program for weekdays. However, you can also opt for just lunches and dinners.
New customers get a 25% discount and free shipping for their first week of meal plans. You can customize your meal plans to fit your schedule, and even decide on a program based on gender.
Moreover, you can opt-out of the program anytime you want, without cancellation fees.
Top-Notch Ingredients
BistroMD uses the very best ingredients out there. Their meals are made from non-GMO products. These meals are free from MSG, aspartame, trans-fats, and nitrates, and other preservatives.
But that’s not all. BistroMD doesn’t flash-freeze their meals, so they aren’t shelf-stable. Refrigerating or freezing perishable meals is the best bet, but the meals should be consumed when specified by the meal plan.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preferences, lifestyle, and dietary needs. BistroMD offers gluten-free meals to help you healthily lose weight, while Diet-to-Go offers Keto and vegetarian options. Because BistroMD uses the best ingredients, their plans are a little pricier.
Both plans take very little time to get the food ready for serving. However, if you get bored by similar meals quickly, Diet-to-Go is a better option as it has a bigger menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to questions people have about BistroMD and Diet-to-Go.
01. How are These Meals Different from Microwavable Dinners?
Diet-to-Go and BistroMD meals are healthy and free from unhealthy sugars, excess salts, and preservatives. They also offer a greater variety when compared to frozen-dinner brands.
02. Can I Get Vegan Meals from Diet-to-Go?
Although Diet-to-Go doesn’t have a Vegan meal plan, you can customize meals from their Vegetarian plans to remove animal by-products.
03. Which Meal Service Has Better Tasting Food?
While the Balance Meals from Diet-to-Go have won awards for tasting amazing, BistroMD isn’t far behind in terms of flavor. Moreover, BistroMD has an excellent selection of desserts and snacks.
To Sum Up
At the end of the day, both Diet-to-Go and BistroMD make it easy for you to maintain a healthy diet and reach your target weight. The customizable plans, delicious menus, and convenience make them a must-have in a busy week. Whichever side of the Diet to Go vs Bistro MD camp you prefer, you’re in good hands either way!
It’s easy to get confused between sushi, sashimi, and nigiri. That’s why we’re here to clear things up for you! Know what you’re eating and enjoy it more with this article.
If you love Japanese cuisine as much as I do, you’ve eaten sushi, sashimi, and nigiri — sometimes all at the same time! The thing is, it’s easy to get confused with the three.
If you’re planning to make some sushi, sashimi, or nigiri and want to get your terms and recipes right, you’re at the perfect place. We point out each unique characteristic of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri for you in this article!
What is Sushi?
Sushi is one of the most popular Japanese cuisine out there. If you’ve been eating sushi for a while, you know its ingredients. Sushi is done with prepared vinegared rice, sugar, salt, vegetables, and fish.
Apart from these main ingredients, sushi also involves popular fish toppings, among pickled ginger, radish, and wasabi. Soy sauce is also popular in eating this delicious treat!
How Is Sushi Prepared?
Normally, most sushi first timers will experience fast-food sushi, but the good sushi out there is prepared by a sushi chef.
Sushi involves a spread of nori or seaweed onto a bamboo mat made for rolling the sushi. Sushi rice is spread onto the nori, and a groove is placed onto the center. Thin slices of vegetables, fresh fish, imitation crab, and even fruit — for that tangy flavor! — are placed onto the groove.
The bamboo mat is used to roll the sushi into place before being sliced into pieces. Sushi is served raw, with fresh slices of pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi to garnish.
What is Sashimi?
Sashimi refers to the popular Japanese dish typically involving thinly sliced raw fish. However, other meats can also be used. Sashimi is shaped differently according to the ingredient used. Flat, diagonal, and cube slices can be used.
While fresh, raw fish is usually used in sashimi, there are sashimi dishes out there that use beef, pork, and chicken. And while the tradition is to serve sashimi raw in a Japanese restaurant, some meats will be braised, seared or boiled for flavor or texture.
When sashimi-grade fish is served in a Japanese restaurant, it’s typically eaten with shredded daikon radish, shiso leaves, soy sauce, ginger, and wasabi.
What is Nigiri?
Nigiri translates to “two fingers” which is the size of the oval mounds and hand-pressed fish, served raw, seared, or cooked.
Nigiri and sashimi are different, but sushi and nigiri are not far from one another! Nigiri is actually a type of sushi, made with oval-shaped rice and a thin slice of the best fish on top. Nigiri sushi is typically molded by hand, with thin slices of fish hand-pressed on top.
Wasabi, scallions, and pickled ginger are common garnishes in nigiri.
Sushi V Sashimi V Nigiri: What’s the Difference?
Sushi
Sashimi
Nigiri
Has rice
Yes
No
Yes
Includes raw ingredients
Yes
Yes
Yes
Is hand-pressed
No
No
Yes
Sashimi VS Sushi
Sushi refers to any dish that invovles vinegar rice, vegetables, fish, pickled ginger, and soy sauce. Sashimi, meanwhile, only refers to raw fish or meat, and doesn’t involve the vinegared rice at all.
Nigiri VS Sushi
Sushi isn’t that far from nigiri! In fact, nigiri is a type of sushi. With nigiri vs sushi, the only difference is the shape and how it’s made. In a sushi restaurant, sushi could refer to any dish made with vinegared rice, vegetables, fish, pickled ginger, and soy sauce.
Sushi menus could include anything from sushi rolls to chirashi. Nigiri can be found in those menus as nigirizushi. Nigiri translates to “two fingers,” the size of each portion, and as hand-pressed sushi — and that makes all the difference. Nigiri is hand-pressed oval mounds of rice, sized around two fingers, with sliced fish pressed on top.
Sashimi Nigiri Comparison
Nigiri VS sashimi — what is actually the difference? If raw, cooked or seared nigiri simply refers to hand-pressed vinegared rice and fresh fish, sashimi is a whole different ball game. Sashimi usually only involves raw meat and does not contain vinegared rice.
While usually sashimi-grade fish is used, you can find raw meat involved in sashimi in any sushi menu.
What Fish Is Used in Sushi, Nigiri and Sashimi?
The commonly-used fish in sushi, nigiri and sashimi are the following:
Tuna
Japanese amberjack
Salmon
Mackerel
Snapper
Yellowtail
Usually, when ordering sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, the most valuable cut is the toro, or the fatty slices. Sometimes, squid, scallops, pierced meat, and sea urchin are also used among fish in sashimi, nigiri, and sushi.
Types of Sushi, Sashimi, and Nigiri
Types of Sushi Dishes
1. Chirashizushi
This Japanese dish is also known as scattered sushi! Unlike the popular sushi roll, chirashizushi comes in a bowl. The rice portion is placed first before having toppings of high quality fish and vegetable garnishes.
2. Inarizushi
Love sushi and tofu? The inarizushi is the must-try for you. A pouch of fried tofu is filled to the brim with sushi rice, sometimes combined with omelette.
3. Makizushi or maki sushi
Maki sushi or makizushi is another popular variant of sushi. With the help of a bamboo mat, rice, meat, fish, and vegetables are rolled together in nori. Occasionally, instead of nori, omelette, shiso leaves, soy paper, or cucumber is used to wrap it as well.
There are many variation to the makizushi. Some are fried, thinly sliced, or large and cone-shaped. In the sushi world, constant innovation for your favorite dish reigns!
4. Narezushi
Narezushi, or matured sushi, is a type of sushi dish which involves fermented sushi. The cooking process is long — often involving up to six months of preparation before the sushi dish can be considered edible.
5. Oshizushi
Oshizushi or pressed sushi is a type of sushi dish where the sushi comes in wooden block molds. The result is bite-sized sushi you can eat together with soy sauce and pickled ginger.
Types of Sashimi
There are many types of sashimi out there, but we’ll cover the top five types of sashimi and the different flavors each one has:
Katsuo (Bonito or Skipjack Tuna)
Better known as katsuo no tataki, this type of sashimi is lightly seared on the outside to give more depth and flavor. The result is a slightly smoky taste you’ll love. It involves chopped green onions, ginger, and ponzu as toppings!
Sake (Salmon)
Sake or salmon are popular fish toppings and ingredients for sashimi, but they’re relatively new to the sashimi scene! It’s sweet, with the added benefit of being packed full of omega-3 acids and fatty goodness. Pair your sake sashimi with lemon and a touch of wasabi.
Maguro (Bluefin Tuna)
Maguro sashimi is iconic in Japanese culture. The fish used is what we know as tuna, and is served in 3 main grades. There are several parts to the fish that can be used for sashimi:
Se-kami – the red, fatty part of the tuna fish
Senaka – part of the red fish
Se-shimo – red and less fatty
Hara-kami ho-toro – the extra fatty part of the fish
Hara-naka chu-toro – the fatty pat of the fish
Hara-shimo – mix of the less fatty part and the red fish
Depending on the sashimi chefs, you may get a mix of these parts of the fish with your sashimi order.
Ahi (Yellowfin tuna)
The yellowfin tuna sashimi is also a popular choice for Japanese food. It’s best paired with rice vinegar, soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.
Aji (Horse Mackerel)
Best for the early summer season, the aji or horse mackerel sashimi has light, well-balanced flavor you’ll enjoy. Order it at the next sushi restaurant you visit!
Types of Nigiri
Maguro nigiri sushi
It’s best to get the fatty part of this raw fish. This nigiri practically melts in your mouth! It’s a combination of sushi rice and raw fish, plus some garnishes on the side with soy sauce and wasabi to taste.
Ika (Cuttlefish)
Aside from raw and cooked fish, nigiri also makes use of other seafood and meat. Ika is the pure, white flesh of squid, which is chewy and yummy to taste!
Shrimp
Raw prawns and boiled shrimp are also typically used in nigiri dishes. If you don’t feel like eating raw fish, this type of nigiri may be for you.
Unagi (Eel)
Served with a sweet sauce, eel is a popular choice among the Japanese for nigiri. Serve it with soy sauce, daikon radish, and wasabi!
Tamago (Egg)
Yes, eggs can also be used in nigiri! The sweetened, baked egg also has a strip of seaweed to keep it in place.
How to Make Sushi Rolls at Home
Wondering how to make your own sushi rolls at home? We’ve got you. The best sushi can come from your very own kitchen!
The California RollRecipe
Let’s start by making a popular, regular maki roll: the California maki.
Prepare the rice
You have to make the rice first. To do this, rinse the short-grain rice you’ve prepared before setting it to cook in the rice cooker.
In another bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together. Once the rice has cooked — and it’s shiny and fluffy! — you can pour the rice vinegar mixture over the rice and combine it completely. Let the rice cool and set aside. You’ll be using it as a main ingredient later!
Prepare to roll
Get your sushi mat and place it on the table. Start by getting a sheet of nori or seaweed. Cut the nori in half and lay it down on the mat, rough side up. Use your fingers to add the rice and spread it all throughout the seaweed sheet.
Add masago or orange fish roe to the spread. Flip the sheet.
Add oTher Ingredients
Now’s the time to add your other ingredients onto the california roll! Arrange the mango strips, kani, and cucumber.
Roll, Roll, Roll
Roll the mat by tucking your thumbs underneath it and lifting it. Use your other hand to hold it in place. Continue rolling until you reach the end of the sheet.
Slice Everything and Serve
Press the mat so everything fits and sticks together tightly. Peel away the mat and use a sharp knife to cut the roll into pieces.
Serve with wasabi and soy sauce. If you like, you can add a dollop of cream cheese as topping!
How to Make Nigiri at Home
Prepare the rice
Make at leas two cups of sushi rice for this recipe. To make sushi rice, rinse the rice thoroughly and cook it for twenty minutes in your rice cooker. After, pour a mixture of vinegar, sugar and salt and combine everything in a bowl. After tossing, set it aside to cool.
Cut Your Selected fish
You can use fish, other seafood like shrimp and eel, or even eggs! For this recipe, we’re assuming you’re using the best fresh fish you’ve found. Cut against the grain and make it around 1/4 inches thick.
Form some rice
Nigiri is popular for being hand-pressed, with oval-shaped rice mounds. To form your rice, prepare a small bowl of water. Now, you have to combine the rice with the prepared fish. Lay one piece of fish across your fingers and then a mound of rice on top. Press inward with your two fingers to make sure they both stick together.
Serve and enjoy
Congratulations, you’ve made your very first nigiri! Serve it with some ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce.
How to Make Sashimi at Home
Unlike nigiri and sushi in general, making sashimi is much more straightforward. All you have to do is pick the raw fish you want to use for your sashimi. Personally, with raw fish, I choose salmon: it’s packed with protein, good fat, and is light on the stomach.
Sharpen your knife before you begin cutting your raw fish. When you slice it, be sure to cut it into thin slices, around 1/4 inch thick. It should be rectangular and bite-sized!
You can mix wasabi, soy sauce, and lemon together to make your dipping sauce. Raw fish combines well with this mixture — and you’ll be sure to enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sushi the same as nigiri?
Nigiri vs sushi — are they the same? Well, it’s as close as it can get! Nigiri is a type of sushi. Most sushi places offer nigiri as part of their menus.
What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?
Sashimi chefs typically don’t cook fresh fish at all. Instead, they serve it raw — and as fish or meat alone. Sushi, meanwhile, involves different ingredients. The traditional sushi roll, for example, involves fish, vegetables, fruit, imitation grab, toasted seaweed, shredded daikon radish, and vinegar rice. Sometimes, it’s even topped with cream cheese!
Why is Sashimi More Expensive Compared to Nigiri?
Sashimi uses the most expensive cuts of fish, which are caught fresh and served right away. Moreover, the fish is not farmed and is of very high quality, making sashimi rather pricey.
If you happen to order sushi regularly, something that might have come to your mind is sushi roll vs hand roll. Even though they sound very much the same, they are not!
But what is a sushi roll and what exactly is a hand roll? If you want to know more about the difference between these two and the eBay way to eat sushi, keep on reading!
History of Sushi
Sushi is one of the oldest dishes that can be traced as far back as the 4th century!
The modern sushi that we all know and love looks and tastes nothing like the sushi from that time. Even though we simply assume sushi originated in Japan, China created the first-ever sushi dish.
In China, sushi was a way to keep fresh fish edible for longer. They used to place fresh fish on fermented rice to increase the shelf life. It tasted similar to pickled fish.
This method of preservation happened by accident! Farmers used to bury fish with rice for storage and realized this makes the fish last longer. And that’s how sushi was born!
Since then sushi has gone through an evolution in itself. The sushi that we know now is a product of the 20th century.
The modern sushi roll and hand rolls we are accustomed to eating are not traditional recipes either. That doesn’t mean they are not delicious!
With our fast-paced lifestyle, temaki and maki sushi is a great way to have a nutritious full meal on the go. No wonder it’s so popular in the west!
Rolled Sushi or Maki Sushi
Sushi roll is called “Maki” in Japanese which is short for Makizushi. It’s called Maki because it’s made using a makisu aka bamboo mat. Maki sushi is sushi that looks almost cylindrical and then cut into thin pieces.
Maki sushi is known to originate during the Edo period which was in the 18th century. So it’s a relatively new addition to the sushi family.
The reason why maki sushi became so popular is because of its easy and versatile ingredients. You can use any type of protein or vegetables to make it. This means maki sushi can be enjoyed all year round.
You can make maki sushi with either thin pieces of veggies or thicker pieces to make a bigger roll. Maki sushi contains sushi rice, nori sheets, and fresh fish and veggies.
The seaweed sheet is first laid on the bamboo mat and then a thin layer of seasoned sushi rice is spread on top of it. Then you can add your favorite fillings.
You can add thin cuts of fresh fish or veggies and then use the mat to wrap the sheet into a round roll. When it’s tightly rolled, cut them into smaller 1-inch pieces. Make sure your knife is super sharp or the roll will crumble and break.
Maki sushi is super easy to make at home. You don’t need a lot of skill or knowledge to make a sushi roll.
If you don’t know how to use a bamboo mat, some fun gadgets can do it for you! They might look sketchy but trust us, some of them are very fun to use. I like to use Camp Chef Sushezi as it makes perfectly rolled sushi each time. It’s a lot of fun to do this with kids and family together!
Types of Maki Sushi:
Maki sushi comes in a wide variety of styles so there’s a lot to discover. We are going to mention the most popular ones today!
Hosomaki:
Hosomaki is the smallest-sized sushi and is known for its thin appearance. Hosomaki means small. This type of sushi uses only one filling which is why it’s so thin.
Some of the popular types of hosomaki sushi include:
Futomaki means thick rolls. This is the polar opposite of hosomaki. You will find a lot of different fillings in futomaki like shrimps, cucumber, crab, eel, tofu, eggs, and a range of vegetables.
The most popular type of futomaki is called ehomaki which is kade using seven different ingredients to represent seven gods of fortune in Japanese culture. This dish is eaten during a festival called Setsubun.
Nakamaki:
The third type of maki sushi is called nakamaki which is an in-between size. It’s not too thick like futomaki and neither too thick like hosomaki. You will find on average three ingredients so it’s very convenient to eat.
Hand roll or temaki sushi is casual-style sushi that’s very popular in Japan. It looks cone-like and is wrapped in nori sheets.
You won’t find temaki sushi in formal Japanese restaurants as it’s a very homey dish. While we know sushi for its artistic and skilled style, temaki is the opposite of that. You don’t need any particular skills to make a delicious temaki at home.
Temaki is a very good choice for parties and hangouts as it takes only a few minutes to make. All you have to do is wrap a scoop of seasoned rice in a nori sheet and add your favorite fish and fillings on top. The fillings are called neta in Japan.
You can eat temaki with any type of sauce. We love to mix our fish slices in garlic mayo with a few drops of lemon juice. It’s divine!
Temaki is traditionally eaten with bare hands as it’s more convenient. One thing you are never supposed to do with temaki is letting it sit for hours before eating.
You should enjoy temaki sushi immediately after it’s made. That’s because the nori sheet can turn soggy if it sits for too long.
If you want to make classic temaki at home, here are some fillings ideas to try:
Add radish sprouts with cucumber slices.
Baked salmon tastes good with fresh vegetables.
Avocado slices with scallions and salmon with sesame seeds.
Spicy tuna and radish sprouts.
Crab and Kewpie Japanese Mayonnaise with roasted nori sprinkles.
What is the Difference between Roll and Hand Roll
I think it’s pretty clear by now how different hand rolls and sushi rolls are. Let’s look at some of the key features of maki sushi and temaki sushi.
Sushi Roll:
Sushi roll or Makizushi means something that’s wrapped or coiled.
Sushi rolls contain cooked fish, rice, crab, shrimp, and vegetables.
Maki sushi rolls rarely have raw fish.
The maki rolls are made using a bamboo mat to give the cylindrical shape.
Maki rolls are cut into relatively smaller pieces so that they can be eaten with chopsticks.
Sushi rolls are cut and served in a dish so they can be shared.
Sushi rolls are always wrapped in nori sheets or soy sheets.
Sushi rolls require skill and precision to make them perfectly.
Maki sushi is often found in formal restaurants as it’s a classic dish.
Some of the popular ingredients in maki sushi include mushrooms, omelets, cucumbers, and sakura denbu.
Hand Roll or Temaki:
The name Temaki refers to something with a conical shape.
Hand rolls are much larger than sushi rolls. They are not bite-size pieces. Instead, you get something that resembles a mini burrito.
Hand rolls are made using only hands as tools. You don’t need a bamboo mat for this.
Temaki is usually made with raw fish instead of cooked ones.
A hand roll is not meant to be shared as it’s made for one person only.
Unlike sushi rolls, hand rolls do not require rice to make. Some of them contain only veggies and fish.
You don’t need chopsticks to eat hand rolls. It is eaten with bare hands.
Temaki is a casual food that’s very popular for home parties.
When hand rolls are made at home, it’s made with cooked ingredients like smoked salmon, fried seafood, etc.
Do Hand Rolls Have Sushi Rice?
Hand rolls or temaki contain rice but it’s not always the case. Rice is the main ingredient in classic sushi rolls. Check out the Best Sushi Rice Brands in 2021.
With hand rolls, some contain a generous scoop of rice while others have very little. Some hand rolls have no rice at all. Your hand roll can have only fish and vegetables too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Hand Roll Mean?
Hand roll or temaki is a taco or a burrito made using seaweed sheets, rice, and fish. The seasoned rice is put on the nori sheet and then wrapped into a cone-like shape. On top of the rice, fish, veggies, and other toppings are added. It’s a simple and easy food to make and enjoy.
What is a Classic Roll Sushi?
Classic roll sushi is a type of sushi that’s made using a bamboo mat. A seaweed sheet is laid on top of the mat and then a small layer of rice is added. You can add any fillings you want. We love adding seafood to our classic roll. Then the mat is wrapped to create a cylindrical shape which is then cut into bite-size pieces. Classic sushi rolls are very popular and are enjoyed with soy sauce, wasabi paste, and grated ginger.
How Do You Eat Sushi Hand Rolls?
Sushi hand rolls are eaten with bare hands. You don’t need any chopsticks or a fork for it. All you have to do is grab the sushi roll like a burrito and proceed to eat! It’s super convenient especially when you are on the go.
Do You Eat the Seaweed in a Hand Roll?
Of course! Seaweed is delicious when you combine it with rice. It has crispiness that’s very enjoyable to eat. The saltiness of the seaweed balances out the sweetness of mayo and rice.
Are California Sushi Rolls Cooked?
Yes, California sushi rolls use cooked fish and seafood instead of the classic Japanese style. Japanese sushi rolls have raw fish marinated in either mayonnaise or vinegar. California sushi rolls are a fusion between eastern and western cuisine. It’s not authentic but absolutely delicious!
How Many Pieces in a Sushi Roll?
A standard sushi roll has 6-7 pieces of sushi. The number can vary depending on how long the sushi roll is and how chunky you want your sushi pieces to be.
Is Eating Sushi with Your Hands Rude?
If you are in Japan or a Japanese restaurant, it’s respectful to eat sushi with chopsticks. Japanese people respect their food and culture a lot. So eating sushi with your hands can be perceived as rude.
Takeaway
As the sushi trend is growing every single day, people are inventing fusion versions of maki and temaki.
It’s fun to see so many different varieties of sushi being celebrated with such passion. Whether you want a delicately made sushi roll or a quick-grab hand roll, the options are endless.
We do love our homemade version a lot though. Nothing can beat a freshly made temaki with some wasabi and ginger.
How do you like your sushi? What’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
If you are looking for a way to store your maki rolls, check out our article Can You Freeze Sushi.
