Hi Reader,

When we're feeling lazy, pressed for time or find ourselves with an empty fridge, many of us pop over to a local restaurant to pick up takeout food (or pick up the phone). But sometimes, it's just the food we crave 😋.

This week, we're excited to share a selection of better-than-take-out recipes. Easy to make at home, and often more nutritious and way better.

And if you do opt for takeout (we've all been there—no judging 😉), we've included a few tips on how to transform your takeout leftovers into delicious new meals.

As always, hope you find something you like!

Cheryl and Jenna

Latest Hit

Simple Apple Crisp Without Oats (No Peeling)

This simple apple crisp recipe without oats is a delicious twist on the classic fall dessert. We incorporate crunchy chopped nuts into the ever-popular topping that perfectly complements the warm, spiced apples beneath. 55 minutes.

​

Better-Than-Takeout Recipes

Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken or Beef (30 Minutes)

If you’re looking to satisfy a craving for crispy, fried and sweet, this Chinese honey garlic chicken recipe will do the trick. It makes a delicious appetizer or main dish and is surprisingly easier than you think. 30 minutes.

Chinese Egg Fried Rice With Vegetables

Packed with veggies, this Chinese egg fried rice is healthier and tastier than the restaurant take-out version. A great way to use up leftover rice and whatever veggies you have hanging around in the fridge. 25 minutes.

Pad Thai

Think of the best pad Thai recipe as perfect Asian comfort food. The flavors and textures in this sweet, salty, umami noodle stir fry are simply delicious. Way better than takeout. Make it vegetarian or not. 30 minutes.

Thai Mango Salad

Prepare for an explosion of fresh flavors and textures with this simple Thai mango salad recipe. Silky ripe mango, crisp bean sprouts, green onions and peppers in a sweet, spicy, tangy, umami dressing. 10 minutes.

Best Pork Back Ribs (parboil, bake or instant pot)

Sweet, sticky, tender and delicious. We included three ways to make them, but make no mistake, it’s the glaze that is unique and awesome. Instant pot = 1 hour, Parboil = 1 1/2 hours, Bake = 2 1/2 hours.

Easy Egg Drop Soup

This easy egg drop soup recipe is loaded with vegetables and fluffy egg ribbons, making it a healthy and delicious version of the popular Chinese restaurant soup. 16 minutes.

​

Tips: Transforming Takeout Leftovers

When you do get takeout and have leftovers, here are a few ideas for how to transform them into another meal (beyond reheating in the microwave!).

1. Rice Revival: Turn leftover rice into fried rice by adding veggies, soy sauce, and an egg for a quick, flavorful meal. Check out our fried rice recipe above.
2. Wraps: Repurpose leftover grilled vegetables or meats into wraps with tortillas, adding fresh greens and a drizzle of sauce.
3. Soup Base: Use leftover meats or veggies as a base for a homemade soup, adding broth (or Better Than Bouillon base with water), spices, herbs, and grains or noodles. This quick Wonton soup will work well.
4. Rice or Grain Bowls: Add your leftover proteins, vegetables, and grains to a bowl of rice, then top with avocados, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing or sauce.
5. Saucy creations: Blend leftover sauces or dips with yogurt or mayonnaise to create flavorful spreads for sandwiches or as a dressing for pasta salads.

What you're saying...

​Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin (With Maple Mustard Sauce)​

Great recipe! I am just learning about sous vide cooking and this was my first pork tenderloin. It was so tender, and that sauce!! OMG! Stephanie

One more thing... If you're tired of takeout but need some easy recipes, click the button below for our BEST QUICK & EASY RECIPES which will be sent straight to your email over the next several days.

Have a great week!

Cheryl and Jenna

jenna-cheryl@twokooksinthekitchen.com

Website: https://twokooksinthekitchen.com/​

​

​

​