Last Updated on July 4, 2023
RVs come in a wide range of sizes and styles, each with its unique kitchen layout. As a dedicated full-time RVer who values a healthy lifestyle, I understand the challenges of maximizing a small kitchen space to create nutritious meals. Over the years, I have honed my skills in cooking with organic ingredients and utilizing practical kitchen accessories and equipment that allow me to prepare delicious meals in under 30 minutes. In my recent RV cooking adventures, I’ve noticed a few intriguing observations that I’d love to share with you. So, if you’re passionate about cooking and curious about how to make the most of your RV kitchen, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Planning the Menu
When it comes to cooking in a compact RV kitchen, meal planning becomes essential to make the most of the limited space. Whether you’re aiming for a delightful breakfast or brunch, a flavorful dinner, or even a potluck with fellow campers, careful menu planning is key. Embracing the diversity of special diets, unique ideas, and a variety of ingredients allows for increased food flexibility and culinary adventures on the road.
Fortunately, the internet offers a wealth of resources to assist you in your RV cooking journey. Platforms like Plan to Eat and Cook Smarts provide meal planning assistance, recipe organization, and grocery list management, making it easier than ever to stay organized and creative in the kitchen. Additionally, if you happen to be in an area where it is available, convenient grocery delivery services like Instacart or Amazon Prime can save you time and effort.
With a little bit of planning, creativity, and the help of technology, you can elevate your RV cooking experience and enjoy delicious meals that suit your unique preferences and dietary needs. So, let’s dive into some practical tips and ideas that will transform your compact RV kitchen into a hub of culinary delight!
One Dish Meals
You can never run out of one-dish food ideas. Not only do they save time, but deliver maximum taste with less fuss while keeping the mess under control. A bowl of hearty soup goes down smoothly, especially in chilly or cold weather. Even though slow cookers need at least 4 hours to cook, preparing a meal takes only minutes.
Elite 1.5 Quart Slow Cooker – Undoubtedly, one of the best mini slow cookers for the single or couple RV traveler, the Elite Gourmet will cook and serve one-pot meals and appetizers such as soups, stews, meatballs, dips, and sauces. It is featuring low and high-temperature settings, a keep-warm setting that keeps meals hot and fresh before serving, and an attractive stainless steel finish. The removable inner stoneware pot is easy to clean. It’s fitted with a transparent tempered glass lid, cool-touch handles and a knob for safe handling.
Air Fryer
The versatile air fryer offers a range of cooking functions using rapidly circulating hot air technology. It can fry, roast, grill, reheat, and bake, providing efficient and greaseless countertop cooking. With a 5.3-quart locking fry basket, it can easily cook meals for individual or family feasts. The intuitive controls allow for precise temperature adjustments from 180° to 400°, and the 60-minute timer ensures accurate cooking times. The removable pan and metal basket are dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze. Enjoy the great taste of fried foods without the oil, mess, calories, and guilt. With its 1700 Watt motor, the air fryer heats up quickly and saves energy. Its heavy-duty design ensures long-lasting use, and the smudge-resistant exterior simplifies cleaning. The air fryer comes in a gift-quality box and is designed for North American Electrical Standards. Its 5.3-quart capacity, convection technology, and modern countertop design make it a convenient and stylish addition to any kitchen.
Grilling Indoors
Since the RV kitchen is compacted, it may not provide an oven in the first place. However, with a Stove Top Grill, you are sure of enjoying indoor barbeques and still retain the quality flavor of chicken, fish, and vegetables.
It features stainless steel pan allowing for safe, non-stick cooking while also providing an easy-to-clean surface. You only have to fill the pan with water, or your favorite marinade to moisturize your food and infuse flavor. The drip pan can also be used to steam flavor into your food.
How To Make Good Coffee?
It was clear to me moving into my RV that my nice, fancy espresso maker have to go. I could have bought a small coffee maker, but I just love espresso. The solution I found was the Stove Top Espresso Maker, a traditional Italian steam-infusion espresso maker that will brew rich, delicious espresso for your morning. It is crafted from polished aluminum, which is easy to clean. Just hand wash with a soft cloth, a mild detergent and then wipe dry. It’s classic and the coffee turns out really good.
Some other ideas
Foil Packet Cooking: Try cooking meals in foil packets, which are easy to prepare and even easier to clean up. Fill the packets with your choice of protein (such as chicken, fish, or vegetables) and seasonings, then seal them tightly and cook them over a grill or campfire.
Skewers and Kabobs: Skewers are perfect for grilling or baking in your RV. Thread your favorite meat, vegetables, and even fruits onto skewers for a tasty and convenient meal. They cook quickly and can be customized to suit your preferences.
Make-Ahead Meals: Prepare meals in advance that can be easily reheated or assembled when you’re ready to eat. This way, you can save time and have a delicious homemade meal on hand without much effort.
Portable Appliances: Utilize small appliances like slow cookers, toaster ovens, or electric griddles that can be easily stored and used in your RV. These appliances provide versatility and convenience for cooking a variety of meals.
Mason Jar Salads: Prepare salads in mason jars by layering ingredients, starting with the dressing at the bottom and adding layers of vegetables, protein, and toppings. When you’re ready to eat, simply shake the jar to mix the ingredients, and enjoy a fresh and flavorful salad.
Breakfast Burritos: Make breakfast burritos ahead of time by filling tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of vegetables and proteins. Wrap them in foil and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready for breakfast, just heat them up and enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal.
Quick and Easy Sandwiches: Keep a variety of deli meats, cheeses, and spreads on hand to create quick and delicious sandwiches. Add some fresh vegetables and condiments, and you have a simple yet tasty meal that requires minimal cooking.
Campfire Classics: Embrace traditional campfire cooking with classics like hot dogs, hamburgers, and s’mores. These easy-to-make meals are perfect for outdoor gatherings and bring a nostalgic camping feel to your RV experience.
Grilled Veggies: Take advantage of your RV’s grill by grilling a variety of vegetables. Season them with herbs, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil for a flavorful and healthy side dish or a delicious addition to salads or wraps.
