7 pantry staples for the independent lazy girl living away from home

So you live alone and hate to cook. And when your cook takes the day off and those cravings kick in, you find yourself flipping through endless menus, just wishing you could have your mum's special halwa one more time.

 

While no one--and we mean no one--can replicate your mum's magic in the kitchen, there are a few  measures that can help every independent lazy girl living away from home battle homesickness.

Here, 7 (almost) ready-to-eat pantry staples all you independent ladies should stock up on right about now!

Tiffin to Go Punjabi Dal Chawal, Rs 120
What if you could enjoy your favourite comfort food by just adding some hot water? That's exactly what you need to do to relish this treat from Tiffin to Go. You can enjoy this treat on days when you're majorly missing your mommy, or just carry it to work for lunch when you cook doesn't turn up (pictured above).

Pillsbury Fridge Cheesecake Mix, Rs 125

Of course nothing beats that decadent cold-set cheesecake from your favourite bakery, but when it's the end of the month and you just don't have the moolah to silence your sweet tooth, this is your best bet. All this no-bake cheesecake needs is butter for the biscuit base, milk for the cheese layer, and four to five hours to set in your refrigerator.

Kitchens of India Jodhpuri Moong Dal Halwa, Rs 140

You won't need to go the corner sweet shop to indulge in some delish moong dal halwa, if you have this ready-to-eat treat from ITC's Kitchens of India at home. Just microwave the contents of the pack for a few minutes; or shallow fry with some ghar ka ghee for that ultimate flavour. 

The Village Kitchen Ready to Eat Crispy Dry Dosa Chatpata, Rs 120

At first glance, this "tear and serve" dosa may seem like an interesting alternative to the daily namkeen you just keep away from during teatime. But this innovative treat can also serve as a midnight snack, not to mention an accompaniment for leftover sambar.

Austin Sterilized Baingan Bharta, Rs 150  

For all the baingan bharta fans out there, this is the perfect pack for a rainy day. Just heat the contents on medium flame for 10 minutes, and you're done. What's more? One can serves two.

MTR Ready to Eat Palak Paneer, Rs 85

What's not to love about palak paneer, apart from of course the tedious process of cooking it? If you want to enjoy the flavour without putting in the labour, then this ready to eat pack is perfect for you. Just heat the contents in a microwave, and enjoy.

Kawan Whole Wheat Paratha, Rs 85

Making rotis is an art, and there is a point after which bread just doesn't cut--especially if you have hot, piping palak paneer as an accompaniment. Enter: ready to eat parathas that just need to be heated with a bit of oil, and served with a lot of love.