Batch from Scratch, episode four - the Mitchell family
Devoted single mum, Vicki, has accepted that with six kids chaos is here to stay. But there’s one area of their day-to-day life she's desperate to get under control, and that’s dinnertime. To please her kids’ picky tastes, she’s preparing a different meal for each child – that’s six dinners each night! This hectic kitchen routine, coupled with her busy job as a pupil support assistant, is pushing her to the limit.
On top of this, the kids are eating well above the recommended sugar intake for children, something that has to change. She would love to be able to cook one nutritious, budget-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy, saving her money for a family holiday and boosting their nutrition. And if the kids can give her a helping hand in the kitchen too, that’ll be a bonus!
Watch the episode on Monday 16 March at 8pm on Channel 4 or stream on Channel 4 after the episode has aired.
Introducing the Mitchell family... Single mum, Vicki, learns that with a little batching magic, pleasing her six kids at the dinner table and cutting down on the ultra-processed and sugary foods they love is not as hard as she might have thought. With all the money she saves, a family holiday is definitely on the cards!
View the batch cooking recipes from episode four
Check out some of the recipes from this week's episode of Batch from Scratch below. You can see the full range of Batch from Scratch recipes here.
Download the Mitchell family meal planner from episode four
If the Longs continue this journey for a year, they could expect to save £2,068 and 435 hours in the kitchen.
Tips that helped the Mitchell family to batch cook
- 1
Encourage healthy snacking with funsize veg
Having healthy alternatives is a good way to reduce unhealthy snacking. Funsize veg are perfect for kids to munch on.
- 2
Bulk out meals with tinned mixed beans
Full of fibre and great for bulking out meals, mixed beans are great for your nutrition and budget!
- 3
Add smoked sausage to a meal
Smoked sausage is strong in flavour and a little goes a long way. This helps add flavour without using the whole pack!
- 4
Avoid pre-made meatballs
A pack of sausages can easily be skinned and made into meatballs, no need to spend the extra on pre-made options!
