Before you moved out of home, you were convinced that living alone in Hyderabad would be a breeze. No more parents around to nag you or give you chores and no siblings “borrowing” your things without permission. But now that you’ve actually moved into a hostel in Ameerpet, you find yourself missing exactly those things. Especially at mealtimes. What wouldn’t you give to be able to exchange one of your hostel staples for your mom’s home-cooked dinner that was the perfect mix of healthy and delicious? Well, we might not be able to give you ‘Ma Ke Haath Ka Khana’, but we sure can give you a few recipes that will help. These easy to cook and quick recipes will make mealtimes in your hostel a lot more fun and healthier. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s take a look.

Soup

You know that packaged soup sachet that you have somewhere in your hostel room? Throw it out the window. Because we have a recipe for the simplest and MUCH more delicious soup that you can whip up in minutes. Plus, since you’re going to use fresh ingredients, it’ll be a lot more nutritious too. All you’ll need for this recipe are a cup of chopped vegetables (you can choose your favorites or buy one of those pre-cut mixes at the supermarket, a tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, salt and pepper. You can also add an egg or some shredded chicken if you’re a non-vegetarian or want to increase the protein. In a saucepan or soup pot, add a teaspoon of olive oil and add the ginger-garlic paste. Sit until fragrant, then add your chopped veggies and sauté for a few minutes. Top with three cups of water and let the soup come to a boil. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes (or longer if you have the time). Turn off the heat and season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This soup is endlessly customizable. You could swap the salt for some soy sauce, if you like a more Asian flavor, and if you prefer a thick soup, stir in a corn flour slurry before taking your soup off the heat. Perfect to warm you up on a cold day.

Breakfast Smoothie

We know they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but when you live in a hostel, it’s the most skipped meal of the day. And it shouldn’t have to be that way. So, having a breakfast that you can grab and go or enjoy on the move is ideal. And this fruit and yogurt breakfast smoothie packs a flavorful and nutritious punch that will be the perfect start to your day. To a blender, add half a cup of yogurt, one cup of milk, one fourth cup of oats, and a cup of fruits of your choice. Bananas are the easiest option, but feel free to mix it up with some cut berries, mangoes or even melon. Then blend on high and you’ll have a breakfast you can drink throughout the morning. This is another recipe that’s super easy to personalize. Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or protein powder if you’re going to the gym later in the day, or some chocolate chips for a more indulgent version. This recipe will make enough for two smoothies so you can leave half in the fridge and sleep in on the second day, knowing that your breakfast is waiting for you. 

Herbal Teas

How much money do you spend buying expensive coffees at the many cafes in Hyderabad? We’re willing to bet that it’s an exorbitant amount. And we get that you need something warm and delicious to wake you up in the morning, but it doesn’t always have to be rich in caffeine or dairy. You might want to switch up your daily dose of caffeine for something more immunity boosting once in a while. And this herbal tea recipe is the easiest you’ll ever make. To three cups of water, add an inch of lemongrass, an inch of cinnamon, a tablespoon of chopped ginger and some mint leaves. Let this boil for five-seven minutes until it is infused with all the warm spices. You can even add in some washed orange peels for a heavier citrus note. Strain and pour into your favorite mug, sweeten with honey, and enjoy sipping on a golden cup of health.

There you have it. These simple recipes will end up being your go-tos while you’re living in a hostel. So, try them out and see for yourself. Happy cooking!