By Michael, on February 28th, 2013 After a hard day of classes or during a long weekend, college students appreciate home cooked meals. But if your child can’t get home, give him or her food kits that are simple to prepare with mugs and microwaves. The mixes are easy to make and convenient to store in sealed baggies. Find tons of ideas on Pinterest or try these suggestions as you give your nostalgic child a taste of home.
Picture Credit- College Cooking: -Amazon
Pasta Alfredo
The ultimate comfort food, this Alfredo meal in a cup reminds kids of Sunday dinners and family conversations. It’s perfect for any time your child misses home and family.
In a small baggie, combine 1/3 cup broken angel hair pasta, 2 heaping tablespoons of Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce Mix, 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, 1/4 teaspoon Garlic & Herb Seasoning and a pinch of pepper. To prepare, empty the contents into a mug. Add 1 teaspoon of butter and 1 cup of boiling water. Let it sit for three minutes and stir.
Potato Soup
This recipe reminds your child of family meals and long conversations, just what he or she needs on a snowy day or before studying.
In a large bowl, combine 1-3/4 cups instant mashed potatoes, 1-1/2 cups dry milk, 2 tablespoons instant chicken bouillon, 2 teaspoons dried minced onion, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/8 teaspoon turmeric and 1-1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt. Measure 1/2 cup into individual baggies. To prepare the soup, empty one baggie of mix in a mug, and fill it with boiling water. Let the mug sit for three minutes then stir.
Muffins
Baked goods remind your child of home. He or she can prepare these healthy muffins with ease and feel close to family. Combine 1/4 cup flaxseed meal and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder in a mug. For a savory muffin, add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of olive oil. For a sweet muffin, add 1 egg, 1/4 teaspoon stevia and 5 blueberries or 1/2 of a grated apple. Microwave for one minute, and allow the muffin to set for one minute.
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal
The most important meal of the day, give your child a breakfast that’s heart healthy and energy boosting, just what Dr. Mom or Dad ordered.
In a 2-cup microwave proof mug, beat 1 egg and 1/3 cup of milk. Add 1 packet of apples and cinnamon instant oatmeal. Microwave on high for about one to two minutes. After the liquid is absorbed and the egg is set, stir the mix and top it with 1/4 cup vanilla yogurt.
Cookie Pudding
Sweets offer comfort and relieve stress. Give your child this cookie pudding mix that’s almost as comforting as a hug from home.
Combine 6 broken chocolate or vanilla sandwich cookies, 1 tablespoon powdered milk and 1/3 cup mini marshmallows into a baggie. To prepare, pour the mix into a mug, add 2/3 cup hot water and whisk well. Microwave for one minute until the marshmallows melt.
Mixes are easy for your college-aged child to prepare in a mug. Load your child’s suitcase with these prepared foods, and send along a sustainable reminder of your love.
Lindsey Harper Mac is an Indianapolis native with a love for cooking. In her spare time, she blogs on behalf of Sears and other brands she enjoys.
