So, we’ve been living “off the grid” for a few months now.  I’ve been restraining myself from complaining endlessly about it on the blog, lucky you.  Well, it’s surely an interesting experience.  One definite downer (of which – there are several, #1 being lack of a couch!  Who knew that was such a luxury?) is no full sized kitchen.  We’ve got a “kitchenette” which includes a 2-burner electric stove with questionable controls, a mini microwave, a dorm fridge that freezes everything in sight, and a small sink.

Luckily we did have enough foresight to pack some essential cooking tools. Sure, the “hotel” (if you call it that) provides some cooking implements, but they are seriously so low quality they’re almost not worth using at all.  Here’s what we packed and have been using the most:

• Our treasured lemongrass colored Le Creuset (the smaller 5 qt pot)
• Our second-most treasured Jamie Oliver nonstick skillet
• All the Henckels knives and their holder thingy
• A few utensils – most used is a wooden spoon
• Dish drainer, soap, and sponges
• A box of spices from our pantry
• A box of dried goods (pasta, rices, etc.)

So, yes, while you definitely COULD cook a gourmet meal in this set-up, it’s definitely not an inspiring environment.   The fact that the fridge is so small and freezes everything in sight doesn’t help.  Yes, we tried turning the fridge temp down a notch, and everything got warm.   Apparently the settings include FROZEN or OFF.   Here are some of the lovely dishes we have prepared in our kitchenette:

• Grilled cheese sandwiches with pimento cheese.  Did you know you can buy pimento cheese spread in the grocery store?
• Pasta, pasta, pasta pasta.  (We did actually have some really good pasta dishes when we were being given tomatoes every 2 days)
• Macaroni and cheese from a box.
• Asian inspiration meal including frozen vegetables.
• Sandwiches (cold cuts, peanut butter, etc.)
• Sloppy joes

Needless to say, there haven’t been many leftovers so I’ve adapted to bringing those healthy choice meals that don’t need refrigeration for lunch.  Nom nom!

We are definitely eating out more often.  It’s surely not very healthy.  I even ordered a SALAD with my Wendy’s sandwich on Friday because I was actually CRAVING VEGETABLES! (Yes, I know, what is that??)  We eat food of the Mexican persuasion because it’s so cheap.  Hello Taco Bell and $1.25 beer night at El Dorado (a recent discovery!).   That El Dorado tradition might just have to continue even after we move…

Posted by Carrie on Monday, September 21, 2009
Categories: blog, cooking · 2 Comments »