The ultimate guide to cooking on a yacht: useful tips and tricks to prepare delicious meals during your adventure at sea.
As avid sailors, we understand that preparing meals on board a sailing yacht can sometimes be a challenge. The limited space, the lack of fresh ingredients and the moving environment can make cooking difficult. But don't worry! With our handy tips and tricks, you will be able to prepare tasty and nutritious meals even on the high seas. Read on to find out how to make the most of your kitchen on a yacht.
1. Preparation is key
Before you board your yacht, it is essential to be well prepared. Make a shopping list with all the necessary ingrediënts and make sure you have enough supplies for the planned trip. Consider non-perishable foods such as pasta, rice, canned food and dried herbs. It is also useful to bring some fresh foods like fruits and vegetables that will last a long time, such as apples and carrots.
2. Smart storage solutions
In a limited space, it is important to use smart storage solutions. Make use of nets, hooks and storage boxes to keep your utensils and stock organised. Make sure heavy items are well secured to prevent them from sliding while sailing. Also use vacuüm packaging to keep food fresher for longer and save space in your fridge.
3. Meal planning
Good meal planning is essential when cooking on a yacht. Consider planning meals in advance so that you know exactly which ingredients you will need and how to alternate your meals. Try to choose dishes that are easy to prepare with minimal cooking time and use of pans. Casserole dishes and meals that can be prepared in the oven are great options. Don't forget to take into account any dietary restrictions the crew may have.
4. Creative cooking with limited resources
On a yacht, you often have to be creative with limited resources. Learn to improvise and make use of what you have on board. For example, try making a delicious pasta sauce with canned tomatoes, olive oil, garlic and dried herbs. Experiment with flavours and textures and don't be afraid to try new dishes. Who knows, you might even discover a new favourite!
5. Safety first
Safety is always the top priority on board a yacht, including in the kitchen. Make sure you have a functioning hob and oven and fire extinguishers within easy reach. Be careful when handling knives and hot pans, especially if the ship is moving. Also, remember to work hygiënically and wash your hands regularly, as an infection at sea can have serious consequences.
A Nutritious Recipe for Sailors: Pasta with Fresh Sea Herbs or Seafood
As a bonus, we are happy to share a delicious (vegetarian) and nutritious recipe that is perfect for sailors. This dish uses fresh sea herbs that you can gather on the go. You can also replace the sea herbs with fresh seafood, or combine them! Here's how to prepare it:
Ingrediënten:
- 250 g pasta
- A handful of fresh sea herbs and/or seafood (e.g. seaweed, sea fennel, sea lettuce, mussels, cockles, prawns, squid, etc.)
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- Shot of white wine
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the packet. Drain and set aside.
- In the meantime, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and oregano (and chilli flakes if you like spicy) and fry, then deglaze with white wine.
- Then immediately add the fresh sea herbs and/or seafood to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until cooked.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and mix well. Season with salt, pepper and some extra olive oil if necessary.
- Serve hot and enjoy this tasty and healthy meal at sea!
With these handy tips and our delicious recipe in your galley, you will undoubtedly enjoy tasty and nutritious meals during your sailing adventures. Don't forget to add your own creativity and experiment with local ingredients you come across along the way. Bon appétit and safe sailing!
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