Home Cooked Meals vs Online Ordered Food

These days, with packed schedules, load shedding and the increasing cost of living to name a few, the way we consume our meals has significantly changed. While home-cooked meals have been a staple for generations, the rise of online food ordering has become a game-changer in the culinary world.
While ordering takeout has become increasingly popular in recent times, there are several advantages to cooking your meals at home. Curious about the pros and cons of home-cooked meals vs fast food? Then read on!

Fast Food for the Win?

The appeal of fast food meals is undeniable. When you're tired after a long work day or don't feel like cooking, with the click of a button you can have a filling meal delivered straight to your doorstep. However, while ordering takeout can provide a quick and easy solution to satisfy your hunger, there are several benefits home-cooked meals offer over takeaways. Let’s explore.

Four Benefits of Cooking at Home

The Flavour Factor

When it comes to food, it’s all about enjoying amazing flavours, no matter the meal. That’s why when it comes to the debate of home-cooked meals vs fast food, one of the most significant advantages of home-cooked meals is the flavour. When you cook at home, you have complete control over the ingredients and spices you use which means you can create meals that taste just the way you like them. Whereas takeout food is often prepared with standard ingredients and spices, which may not suit everyone's taste.

The Health Factor

Another big benefit of cooking your meals at home is that you can control the nutritional value of your meals. With home cooking, you can select fresh ingredients, choose healthier cooking methods and monitor the portions to ensure that you're eating a balanced diet. Whereas with fast food, you may not have the same level of control over the ingredients and cooking methods used, which could lead to consuming excessive amounts of calories, fat and salt.

The Cost Factor

A common question people ask is whether fast food is cheaper than home-cooked meals. With home-cooked food, when you buy ingredients in bulk and prepare your meals, you can save money as you won’t have to deal with restaurant markups and delivery fees, making it more cost-effective than ordering food online. Furthermore, cooking your meals at home can help you cut down on food waste, as you can use leftovers in creative ways for future meals.

The Social Factor

Home cooks know that making meals at home can be a great way to bond with your family or friends. When preparing meals at home you can involve everyone in the meal preparation process, creating a fun experience for all and helping lighten your workload. On the other hand, ordering fast food may limit the opportunities for bonding, as the food arrives ready to eat, leaving little room for interaction.
So, while takeaways may offer convenience, home-cooked meals provide a wide range of benefits that can help improve your health, happiness, and overall well-being.

From better flavours and nutritional value to cost savings and family bonding over food, there are many reasons to get into the kitchen and start cooking up a storm. So, if you're looking to put something scrumptious and satisfying on the table that’s cost-effective and healthy too, sign up for our What’s For Dinner newsletter today for mouth-watering meal inspiration. Then gather the family, put your aprons on and get started whipping up something amazing.