Simple inspiration for the home cook on a Summer night (with nothing thawed!)

If you’re a Wild Harmony fan, you know that our meat comes frozen at peak freshness. If Ben and I don’t remember to take a chicken, pork chop, or chuck roast out in the morning so that we can have it thawed for dinner, we use these shortcuts for getting a delightful meal on the table in no time.

Depending on the cut of meat you have, you can choose your own adventure...

Whole chicken - Season the chicken as you like and cook it in your instant pot. Cooking time will vary based on the size of the chicken. Then shred it and make chicken quesadillas, BBQ shredded chicken, or chicken salad. I recommend adding pickle juice to chicken salad for a bright finish.

Pork chop - Ben often cooks frozen pork chops on a skillet on the stovetop or on the grill. This is an ideal option for cooking and eating outside. I know this sounds crazy, but he swears by it. His tips are... "use a very low, not too hot grill, flip it every three minutes or so... it should take 12-15 minutes or so total" You can use a meat thermometer for this if that is more comfortable for you. Ben suggests cooking it to 155 degrees. Serve with a fresh green salad. Little River Farm is our go-to for local organic greens.

Chuck roast - This one might be the best because it is a one-pot meal! Throw together a chuck roast, a can of tomatoes (we use frozen tomatoes we preserved from our garden last Summer!), and potatoes, carrots, or other hearty vegetables in the instant pot for a heartier meal. If you want to add more tender vegetables like greens, wait until the end of the cooking time. When it's extra hot out we just add a little red wine to the chuck roast and pot then shred it for beef tacos topped with fresh greens and avocado.

I recently heard the Hudson Valley-based chef and local farm supporter Julia Turshen talking about how home cooks are not appreciated enough, and how simple meals ≠ less delicious meals. Hopefully, these ideas inspire you as a home cook and simplify your evenings. Let me also take this moment to say that I appreciate you for cooking for yourself and the people you love!