Chantal Braganza

We tried every major-brand version of this kickier cousin to the ketchup chip to find you the very best in all dressed.

Papillote is a cooking method that uses folded parchment paper to make little steam baths for seasoned fish, poultry and vegetables. Once you’ve mastered the folding technique, it’s a shockingly easy way to put a quick dinner together—and opening the puffed-up envelopes tableside to release their steam before serving is a neat trick if you’re entertaining.—Chantal Braganza

Not only are broccoli stems extremely nutritious, they're also delicious when prepared right.

What to look for—and what to avoid—when shopping at the thrift store or online for pans, pots and even small appliances.

Cold plunging is hot right now, with proponents claiming it has many health benefits. Here's what the science says.

It’s time to ditch the sad desk snack for a proper power-up meal.

Bonus: They’re all vegetarian!

While pastina is traditionally a soup for children, there’s no rule that says it can’t be made for adults. Blending aromatics into the broth gives it a bit of heft; harissa adds a deeply flavourful punch. For a quick home lunch, the broth can be made in advance; simply heat it up when you’re ready to cook the pasta. For an office lunch, pack the fresh spinach separately and stir it into the soup just before popping it in the microwave.—Chantal Braganza

We know what you’re thinking: Poaching an egg? For a weekday lunch?! We promise this soup is quick and worth cracking a few eggs for if you have access to a stove during the workweek. Açorda, a traditional Portuguese dish that turns stale bread into a variety of soups, epitomizes the spirit of thrifty cooking. Bom proveito!—Chantal Braganza

Dishes that taste better the next day were practically made for lunch prepping, and this silky, spicy stew—a vegan riff on soondubu jjigae—fits the bill and reheats beautifully. Many traditional versions of this dish include an anchovy broth or pork belly; using earthy dried shiitake mushrooms and dasima (dried-kelp sheets) for the base broth instead makes it just as delicious.—Chantal Braganza

Tempering dried spices in hot oil to coax out their flavours is known as tadka as well as a few other names across India. It’s the expert-level step to layering flavour in many types of dishes, including this simple lentil soup.—Chantal Braganza

We pick the best kitchen deals from Amazon's new Big Spring Sale.