The one pot method, also known as “dump and go” cooking, has become a popular way to make easy, delicious meals with minimal cleanup. The basic premise is that you throw all the ingredients into a single pot, let it simmer, and you’ll end up with a complete dish containing your protein, vegetables, and starch all in one place.
This technique is perfect for busy home cooks, college students, or anyone looking to simplify their cooking. While it may seem like the ingredients can be random, there is some strategy to selecting the right components for flavorful, well-balanced one pot meals.
Proteins
The protein provides the bulk and main substance for any one pot dish. Common proteins used include:
- Chicken – bone-in chicken thighs or breasts work well for braises and stews
- Beef – chuck roast or stew meat is perfect for beef stews and chilis
- Sausage – try different smoked or fresh sausages for flavor and texture
- Beans – black, kidney, or chickpeas add plant-based protein
- Tofu – cubed firm or extra firm tofu absorbs flavors beautifully
- Shrimp – stir in precooked shrimp at the end of cooking
The key is to pick a protein that matches the flavor profile of your dish and will cook through in the same time as the other ingredients. Hearty meats like chicken legs or pork shoulder work very well.
Vegetables
Adding vegetables to your one pot meal provides nutrients, color, and texture. Some great options include:
- Onions – slice or dice onions to start building flavor
- Garlic – minced or crushed garlic amps up aroma
- Carrots – sliced or diced carrots add sweetness
- Celery – lends savory freshness to soups and stews
- Bell peppers – mix in different colors for visual appeal
- Greens – spinach, kale, chard wilt down when simmered
- Mushrooms – meaty mushrooms like cremini add richness
- Potatoes – cubed white or sweet potatoes thicken and break down
- Squash – zucchini, butternut squash, or pumpkin
Aim for a selection of vegetables that offer an array of textures, flavors, and nutrients. Cutting the vegetables into similar sized pieces helps them cook evenly.
Flavorings and Seasonings
One pot meals come together through layering spices, herbs, aromatics, and other flavor components. Consider adding:
- Fresh herbs – rosemary, thyme, parsley, cilantro
- Dried herbs and spices – garlic powder, oregano, paprika, cumin
- Chili powder or cajun seasoning for heat and depth
- Salsa, tomato sauce, or diced tomatoes for savory umami pop
- Broths and stocks – chicken, beef, or vegetable broth
- Wine, beer, or vinegar to brighten up flavors
- Soy sauce, fish sauce, or Worcestershire sauce for salty savoriness
Taste and adjust seasonings as you build the dish. You can always add more towards the end of cooking if needed.
Grains and Starches
Adding some type of starch or grain absorbs liquid, enriches the dish with texture, and turns it into a complete meal:
- Rice – white, brown, or wild rice, cooked directly in the pot
- Pasta – orzo, elbows, shells simmered right in the sauce
- Pearl barley – chewy cooked barley perfect in stews
- Potatoes – mashed or diced potatoes thicken
- Polenta or grits – simmer then stir in masa or cornmeal
- Beans – lentils, chickpeas, butter beans offer protein too
- Bread – cubes or torn slices of bread to soak up the delicious sauce
Pick a grain that works with the particular flavors of the dish and will be done in about the same time. Canned beans need only be warmed through at the end.
Dairy and Cheese
Adding a bit of creamy dairy can take your one pot dish to the next level. Stir in or top with:
- Heavy cream or half and half for richness
- Grated Parmesan for nutty, salty flavor
- Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crumbled feta for gooey melted bits
- Greek yogurt for tangy flavor and thickness
- Sour cream, mascarpone, or ricotta to finish
The small addition of cheese or other dairy provides the satisfying, indulgent note you crave in comfort food. Just add at the very end of cooking so it won’t curdle or break.
One-Pot Cooking Tips
Follow these tips to make the most of one-pot meals:
- Prep all ingredients before starting – neat, uniform cuts ensure even cooking
- Get the pot nice and hot before adding the fat or main ingredients
- Brown or sear meats first for caramelization and texture
- Layer flavors from aromatics like onions and garlic up through seasonings
- Add tender vegetables near the end so they don’t overcook
- Simmer uncovered for maximum reduction and thickness
- Allow dishes to rest 5-10 minutes before serving so flavors meld
With the right preparation, sequence, and cooking technique, you can produce amazing meals using the convenient one pot method.
One-Pot Recipe Ideas
To spark inspiration for your next one-pot creation, here are some delicious recipe ideas:
Classic Chili
Ground beef, chili powder, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, onions, garlic, cumin, shredded cheddar
Beef Stew
Stew meat, potatoes, carrots, celery, mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, parsley, thyme
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cilantro, lime, tortilla strips, avocado
Shrimp Boil
Shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, lemon
Vegetable Curry
Chickpeas, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, spinach, coconut milk, curry paste, cumin
Pork Ramen
Pork shoulder, mushrooms, scallions, ramen noodles, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger
Mediterranean Orzo
Orzo, cherry tomatoes, spinach, artichoke hearts, feta, olives, lemon, olive oil
Risotto
Arborio rice, mushrooms, asparagus, parmesan, white wine, vegetable broth
Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken, carrots, peas, biscuit dough, parsley, thyme, chicken broth
Get creative and come up with your own one pot flavor combinations! The simple method allows for endless possibilities.
Conclusion
One pot cooking makes preparing dinner easy and fuss-free. The key is choosing ingredients that will harmonize in flavor, texture, and cook time. Start with a hearty protein like chicken, beef or beans. Add aromatic vegetables for depth. Layer on spices, herbs, and seasonings. Incorporate a starch or grain to make it a meal. Finish with a drizzle or dollop of rich dairy if desired. With the formula down, you can riff on different ingredients to create amazing one-pot dishes for any night of the week.