New Discoveries in Culinary Exploration During the Pandemic

With the world in lockdown, many of us found ourselves experimenting with new recipes and ingredients. Here are some of the discoveries that have made their way to our dining tables and refrigerators, staying there long after the pandemic has waned.

Rediscovering Aldis Park Street Deli's Heated and Served Meats and Main Dishes

During the isolation period, while many of us resorted to takeout and restaurants, we instead focused on making the best use of leftovers and new recipes at home. One of the biggest discoveries for our household was the Aldis Park Street deli line of heat and serve meats and main dishes. Our favorite is the artichoke-stuffed chicken, which was supplemented by the fajitas chicken, whose sauce was particularly delightful.

A notable feature of these pre-packaged dishes is that they are typically found in the refrigerator section, but can be safely stored in the freezer as well. This made them a convenient and delicious addition to our daily meals.

Embracing Icelandic Yogurt: The Fluffier Option

An interesting discovery during this period was the Icelandic yogurt, Skyr. While advertised on television, the initial skepticism about trying something new didn't last long. Skyr proved to be a lighter and fluffier alternative to my usual Greek yogurt, providing a delightful texture and flavor.

I now keep Skyr in my refrigerator regularly. My signature preparation involves soaking muesli overnight in milk, topping it with fresh fruit, and then layering a couple of teaspoons of Skyr—preferably the variety with honey. This regimen provides me with the stamina needed for mindless activities, such as social media browsing or baking.

A particularly inventive use of Skyr involves its role as a marinade for chicken. Mixed with tandoori paste, it can be grilled on a barbecue or baked in a hot oven, resulting in a deliciously aromatic and flavorful dish.

Avocado Toast: The Versatile Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Staple

In our quest for a healthy and satisfying comfort food, avocado toast emerged as a standout. Its versatility makes it perfect for any meal of the day, offering a rich flavor and healthy fat content. The process is straightforward and rewarding:

Scoop mashed avocado into a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in lemon juice to taste—preferably a generous amount. OPTIONAL: Add a teaspoon of curry powder for a twist of flavor. Spread the mixture onto well-toasted bread, ensuring it is well distributed. Top with chilli flakes for a final kick of heat. Enjoy!

Whether enjoyed in the morning for a nutritious start, during the day for a quick and filling snack, or in the evening as a delectable dinner, avocado toast is an essential addition to any culinary repertoire during and beyond these times.