I have become a huge fan of Chip and Kale in Pittsburgh. As the only vegan in the household, I end up having to cook for one a lot. Ordering a week of meals (meant for 2) gives me a variety of dishes for a couple of weeks.
There is no need to ask about every ingredient on the menu. Everything is vegan, but nonvegans will enjoy these dishes as well. They're well-seasoned, flavorful and quick to make. Because you're cooking prepared ingredients instead of heating up a frozen dinner in the microwave, the dishes taste fresh and homemade.
Some of the things I like best about C&K: 1) If one of the week's meals doesn't appeal to you, you can order two of another. 2) The chef and staff are quick to respond by email if you have questions. 3) You can be relatively eco-friendly by returning the containers. Just throw them in the dishwasher and leave them for pickup. They get sterilized and you get a small thank-you discount for recycling. 4) There are occasional special-event discounts as well.
For me, this is an affordable way to have a part-time personal chef. I dislike shopping and chopping, but I'm happy to cook up the ingredients. Keep in mind that the meals tend to be of the one-pot variety (stews, stir-fries, casseroles, stroganoffs), usually served with a grain or polenta. While every entrée supplies a complete protein and fulfills all nutritional needs for a meal, you might want the occasional side salad to round out your dinner.
I hope you'll join me in supporting local, health-oriented chefs like this one, who care about quality and encourage compassion. read more