Another way to ring the changes without the overwhelm is to cook just one new meal – once a week, once a fortnight or once a month, depending on what you feel is achievable. Something is better than nothing. 

If you enjoy it, add it to your repertoire of go-to meals. Slowly but surely the number of meals you eat on repeat will increase to seven, eight and more, reducing the risk of boredom.  

But, after a busy day, the last thing we want is to be spending hours in the kitchen. We need quick, easy, reliable recipes that are going to make us feel good inside and bring a smile to our faces.  

I’ve tried, tested and honed this chicken, pancetta and bean stew recipe over time and I know it’s going to tick those boxes.