Lockdown Kitchen: Show some 'Bubble Love' with these hearty meal suggestions

We are back in Level 4 lockdown which means the bubble is back. Check out how you can share some aroha with your bubble buddies through food that nourishes the body and soul.

It was the news none of us wanted on Tuesday night, but here we are again - in a nationwide Level 4 lockdown. The return of these strict restrictions also brings back the return of the bubble, where Kiwis are confined to essentially their households outside of essential work. Everyone’s bubble will look different – you may not see some members of your bubble day-to-day if they are essential workers, or you may be seeing some members a whole lot more while trying to navigate the work-from-home and/or home-schooling arrangements. Regardless, one way to bring your bubble (and only your bubble) together at the end of a long day is with a hearty meal. 

There is no clear definition of a hearty meal, but the word ‘hearty’ implies that it’s a meal that will make your insides sing and deliver you lots of nutrients. However, a hearty meal not only gives you physical nourishment, but it can also give you a sense of warmth, comfort, joy, and even nostalgia. It’s the type of meal that brings everyone together and can leave you with not just a full tum, but also a full heart. 

So, this lockdown we wanted to lift the lid on a few of our favourite, hearty recipes that tick the nutritional, and warm fuzzies box. They say food tastes better together, so round up the people in your bubble (and only your bubble) and enjoy a nourishing meal during these uncertain times. Here are a few of our suggestions.

We’d love to hear what your favourite hearty meal is, so send us an email at recipes@beeflambnz.co.nz. Bonus points if you send us a picture!