IN MY fridge
Skim milk
Rich in calcium and lower in fat than regular milk.
Greek-style low-fat yoghurt I choose brands high in calcium and with no added sugar.
Cheese I admit I love it and have cheddar, low-fat cream cheese, ricotta and blue vein in my fridge. I’m careful with my portions and try to stick to ricotta because it’s lower in fat, and cheddar for its higher calcium.
Tahini (sesame seed paste) This is great to add to Lebanese dishes, such as hummus, and it’s high in monounsaturated fatty acids.
A few (too many) jars of curry paste For days when I don’t want to make my own.
Sliced chicken A lean protein I use for lunches.
Free-range eggs A great source of lean protein, I also love a hard-boiled egg for breakfast.
Kimchi
It’s a traditional fermented vegetable Korean dish that you can buy in jars in the Asian section of the supermarket. I have a jar from a Korean lady who lives nearby, so it’s as authentic as you’ll get, but it’s quite easy to make, too. Kimchi adds a nice zing to barbecued meats, and is a great source of probiotics.
Fresh fruit and vegetables These make up the bulk of my meals. I buy what’s in season as it’s fresher with more vitamins and minerals, and cheaper, too.
Lean pork cutlets, chicken and rump steak
I choose lean meats to reduce my saturated fat intake. To reduce waste and extra trips to the shops, I plan my meals using all the meat I’ve bought for that week.
Other flavours Tomato paste, fish sauce, reduced-salt soy sauce and miso paste add lots of flavour without overloading on fats and sugars.
New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc I’d like to say this is for cooking, but it’s too good not to enjoy a glass now and again.
Soda water
My friend bought me a SODASTREAM for Christmas, and I love making water more interesting!