Sophie advised teaching your children to cook five types of meals before they depart for university: “If students head off to uni with just five meals under their belt, they’ll be far more likely to eat well, spend less, and avoid the instant noodle burnout by week three.
“These aren’t just easy and affordable; they teach core skills students can use to build endless meal variations throughout the year.”
Roux
“The number one thing to teach your kids before uni is how to make a roux,” said Sophie. This basic method of combining flour and fat forms the foundation of many sauces, soups and stews.
“Think of it as the building block that makes sauces thick, creamy, and smooth…It also boosts confidence in combining herbs, spices, and pantry staples into meals that feel homemade and satisfying.”
One-Pot Pasta or Stir-Fry
“These quick meals teach how to balance carbs, protein, and veg in a single pan, plus, you’ll master portion control and seasoning without waste,” said Sophie. Students can whip up five different dishes using just one frying pan and five key ingredients, including burrito bowls, egg fried rice, and spicy shakshuka.
Oven Tray Bake
This type of bake is a breeze and versatile, as you can use chicken, tofu or halloumi. Sophie said it also imparts crucial kitchen techniques: “Simple, hands-off cooking that teaches temperature control and timing, great for feeding housemates or prepping lunches.”
DIY Chilli or Curry
This is a brilliant way for students to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, according to Sophie. “Ideal for batch cooking and freezing, these meals stretch across multiple days, help reduce waste, and encourage creativity with spice blends and toppings,” she said.
Egg-Based Meals
Think shakshuka, omelettes and fried rice. Not only are eggs “cheap, fast, and protein-rich” but these dishes are perfect for “fridge-raids, hangovers, or nights when energy is low but hunger is high” said Sophie.