People Describe Their Favorite 'I Don't Want To Cook, But I Have To' Meals
February 17 | 2021
Until recently, I did not appreciate cooking until the pandemic hit.
Suddenly – like many others who were self-isolating for much of 2020 – I was forced to prepare my own meals as going to restaurants was not an option and ordering take-out was not economically convenient.
<p><strong></strong>I certainly do not <em>love</em> cooking, but I appreciate the sense of accomplishment the task gives me. </p><p>I tend to enjoy the fruits of my labor when they are of the baked good variety. After all, isn't a slice of coffee cake with a gooey, cinnamon-glazed center a reason to get up in the morning? I'll speak for myself. It absolutely is. </p><p>However, motivation is my biggest obstacle when it comes to food prep.<br></p><strong></strong><p><strong>Curious to hear about preferred menu options from strangers on the internet, Redditor <a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/CodFishGaming/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CodFishGaming</a> asked:</strong><br></p><blockquote><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">"What is your go-to 'I don't want to cook, but I have to cook.' meal?"</a></blockquote> <img alt="" src="https://www.redditstatic.com/desktop2x/img/renderTimingPixel.png">
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No Prep Time
<p>Some people do not consider this "cooking" per se, but you can't argue over the convenience of adding hot water or nuking your meals. </p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_36" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Instant Convenience
<p>"Instant Ramen."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnh69gu?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">thebelsnickle1991</a></p><p>"When I want to get fancy, I crack an egg in it."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhh2fx?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">spiced_shrub</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_2" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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<p>Usually it is a frozen Stouffers Lasagna."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnh6a4y?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kinkybenny</a><br></p>
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It's Not A Kitchen Without These
<p>"Microwaves are on some next level sh*t. Like these things have been around for decades and they seem like they're from the future. How the f'k you expect me to believe this box on my counter cooks things hotter and faster than a big f'kin metal block that takes up a whole section of counter with the sole purpose of being hot??"</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhzqbh?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">FarmerExternal</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_4" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Who Doesn't Love Pasta?
<p>You can have a hearty Italian dish with some basic ingredients every kitchen should have – like pasta and a jar of Prego. </p><p>These Redditors even found that making their own sauce was not that difficult. Plus, they could store the leftovers.</p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_5" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Pasta Mania
<p>"Pasta, a little butter, garlic and some seasonings."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnh6lfp?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AdOk9471</a></p><p>"I make a gallon or so of tomato sauce when I do feel motivated and freeze it, so all I have to do is boil water and microwave a measured serving of sauce for 1 plate."</p><p>"Even making the sauce is hardly any work. Throw sh*t in a pot, simmer for 2 hours. Put into tupperware."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnjmxku?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">5th_degree_burns</a><br></p>Delicious Italian In Minutes
<p>"Toss chunks of onion, peppers, and cherry tomatos, a can of chickpeas and fresh gnocchi in olive oil and whatever spices you want. Then roast them in the oven. Gnocchi get slightly crisped on the sides and roasted veggies are always delicious."</p><p>"Takes about 5 minutes (or less really) to prep and maybe 30 min to cook? But very little labor involved, and it's very tasty. I try to plan to have supplies for it if I know I have busy day ahead of me."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhlz9p?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">VinnyVinnieVee</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_6" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Piling On The Carbs
<p>"For other people? Carbonara. It's quick, minimal ingredients and impresses people who don't know anything about cooking. For myself? Microwave a hotdog for 20-30 seconds and wrap a slice of bread round it."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gni5tjq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">parabolicurve</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_7" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Recipe For Success
<p>These may require more time than desired, but based on these Redditors' preparation descriptions, it doesn't seem like it involves that much effort to get tasty results. </p><div data-conversation-spotlight style="min-height:90px"></div>
Snacks That Are Meals
<p>"Hummus and pita, boxed pasta (like Annie's white cheese shells), crackers and boursin and jalapeno jelly (sometimes I'll add a little pre-sliced turkey from the package, too). All really simple, basically snacks not meals, but they get the job done and they're so fucking easy to make. They've got it all calories, fill you up, taste pretty good, ready to eat in 11 minutes or less with minimal (if any) effort. It's amazing. I don't love them always but they're good enough (a good salad or something is miles better but who has the time or the energy or the motivation?!)."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gni3w21?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ShrekFan2</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_8" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Requires Skillet
<p>"Ground beef with whatever frozen veggies I have, with whatever bottle of sauce/marinade I have with whatever container of spices/herbs I have. Plus a skillet."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gni0mes?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Reikko35715</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_9" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Stew It
<p>"Shredded chicken tacos. Just put some chicken in a crockpot with some seasoning.... 6 hours later you pull it apart and you have dinner."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhejcr?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">michonne_impossible</a><br></p>Stuff The Spuds
<p>"Loaded baked potato: Clean and slice skin of a potato, microwave for 5min on normal 2-3 time fliping in between, potato is done when soft and pliable. If you do prep beforehand this is a lot easier, cook/reheat cubed or sliced ham in a pan (Add chopped onions and garlic for flavor) In another pan (if needed) Steam broccoli."</p><p>"Place the cooked potato on a plate, slice in half and mash out and butter. spread broccoli on top of the potato, spread ham on top, spread shredded cheese on top. microwave for 1-2 min to melt the cheese. sourcream on to and enjoy!!"</p><p>"I keep packets of cubed ham ready so I can usually cook this up in 15-20 min. wash your pots and pans on the final microwave cooking and you'll just have the plate left at the end."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhpuyb?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">KaleMercer</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_10" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Rice Magic
<p>When it comes to accompanying a main dish, rice plays nice. But sometimes, rice can be the star of the show. </p><p>Such is the versatility of this cheap staple food, as these Redditors can attest to. <br> </p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_11" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Just Add Sausage
<p>"I'll just put white rice in the electric cooker and then when the rice is done I'll drop inside the cooker with the rice these chinese sausages for like 5 minutes. When did I cut them in slices serve myself rice and I'll eat that with soy sauce and meal ready. Honestly it's so good."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhxroi?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">earthmetalcowboy</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_12" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Fry It Up
<p>"Fried Rice - always make more rice than you need, because refrigerated rice is what you want for this. Garlic, ginger, whatever veggies you have and whatever sauces you have."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gnhssae?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">newcastlefantastic</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_13" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Make It Spicy
<p>"Kimchi fried rice assuming I have planned ahead by making the rice the day before."</p><p>"Super easy, toss some garlic into the pan, followed by some kimchi, then rice and kimchi juice and soy sauce. I have a simple ground beef topping I make and then fry up a couple eggs and chop up seaweed snacks into strips."</p><p>"When it is leftovers all I have to do is fry up two eggs while it heats up in the microwave, then grab some of the chopped up seaweed."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ljztd9/what_is_you_goto_i_dont_want_to_cook_but_i_have/gni3fc0?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">waterloograd</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_14" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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<p>My go-to dish is scrambled eggs, regardless of time of day. </p><p>I sprinkle some salt and pepper and cut up some avocado, and I'm comfortably satisfied with a healthy meal. </p><p>If I'm feeling adventurous, I heat up some chopped onions and green pepper. </p><p>Whatever you decided to whip up, besides motivation, cooking is not that arduous once you have momentum going.</p>
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Image by Salah Jalal from Pixabay
Not everyone excels at cooking, and that's okay.
<p>As long as you can follow recipe directions and paying attention to measuring ingredients, the tasty dishes you prepare should be an accomplishment you should be proud of.</p><p>But what about the details that are not necessarily mentioned in cook books that can lead to better results? <br></p><p><strong>Redditor <a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/Tw1sted_inc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tw1sted_inc</a> asked:</strong><br></p><blockquote><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">"Chefs of Reddit, what are some cooking tips everyone should know?"</a></blockquote> <div><img alt="" src="https://www.redditstatic.com/desktop2x/img/renderTimingPixel.png">Unless you are running the Food Network on your TV, 24/7, it appears there is a lot to learn. </div><p>Got your cooking aprons on? Let's go!</p><p><br></p>
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That's Sharp
<p>"a falling knife has no handle."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf2k08l?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ihoardbeer<br></a></p><p>"The worst cut I've ever had was from trying catch one on reflex. I got sliced across all my fingers, great tip to internalize."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf2qrd2?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sigourneybeav3r</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_36" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Spicing Things Up
<p>"Two things for beginners:"</p><p>"First, taste as you cook. At various stages of cooking, while safe (not raw meat) taste your food as you cook it. This let's you know if you have too much of something or too little. It also helps you develop your palette for what different seasonings do."</p><p>"Second, if you're just starting out and don't know which spices to buy. Pick a specific cuisine you like. Are you a fan of italian food? Focus only on Italian recipes for a while. Most use similar herbs and spices because the cuisine of the area used what they had available to them."</p><p>"This will let you learn several recipes without having to buy massive amounts of spices to make it work. Eventually you will build up a good stock and be set to handle most things."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf267i8?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lloydimus87</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_2" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Highly Flammable
<p>"Oven mits can in fact catch on fire."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf22z4j?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">YupItsMe81</a></p><p>"A good kitchen should be equipped with a plentiful supply of clean <em>dry</em> towels."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf2q9pu?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ben_zyl</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_3" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Never Ever Do This
<p>"Whatever you do do NOT put your coconut in the microwave."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf25ojj?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">somedumbrick</a></p><p>"If it's a whole coconut I feel like the coconut water might as it evaporetes create a huge pressure inside of the coconut shell which will build up until it's strong enough to physically shatter the hard shell, at which point it's also strong enough to f'k sh*t up. But pure guesswork :P"</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf2pnw8?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">PastelIris</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_4" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Restaurant Quality
<p>"Three or four times the amount of butter and salt is a big part of why your food doesn't taste like restaurant food."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf1um0l?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">porkedpie1</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_5" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Don't Drain The Boiled Water
<p>"For thick and nice sauces, use the water you cook your pasta with."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf22kua?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IZiOstra</a><br></p>Master These Concepts
<p>"Salt is seasoning. It makes food taste more like itself. Acids, like citrus or vinegar can act the also do this. If your food tastes flat, or like it is missing something, try some salt or acid. Acid is also critical for balancing very rich fatty foods. The reason Americans love tomato ketchup so much is the fact that it adds acid and salt to their food. Adding a bit of 'heat' like a pinch of cayenne can also accentuate a the flavor of a dish. Spices are something else. They bring a new and different flavor to the dish."</p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_6" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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<p>"In sweets, sugar often takes the place of salt and is usually balanced by acid - see passionfruit, raspberry, citrus, etc. But salt plays an important role in sweets as well - often in unexpected ways. Try putting a pinch of kosher salt into your next batch of whipped cream."</p><p>"I could keep going but I'll leave it there. If you can master these concepts you will have a big advantage over most home cooks."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf20138?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">therealdxm</a><br></p>
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Timing Is Everything
<p>"The amount of garlic flavor is dependent on WHEN you add the garlic. Add it early for light flavor, add it late for bold flavor."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf206to?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Orbnotacus</a></p><div data-conversation-spotlight style="min-height:90px"></div>
In Honor Of The Best Chef – Mom
<p>"I've been crushing the home chef game since [the virus] started. Mom was a massive cook, always cooking up the best sh*t at the church potluck, always giving folks who were sick some Dope a**, none-caseroll, Wildly delicious Puerto Rican-Iowan farmer fusion type sh*t. Everyone agreed she was the best cook they had ever known. So I grew up hearing this and started paying attention when I realized none of my friends moms even cooked at home other than one or two meals a week." </p><p>"My mom was making up every single meal from scratch. Oh you want oatmeal? 'I'll bake my own, it's cheaper and better.' Or 'let's make tacos next week, I'll start sprouting the oats so I can <em>grind my own flower for the tortillas</em>' woman was insanely talented. Never made mistakes. Knife skills off the charts. Pressure cooking bones and veggies for a whole day before the chicken noodle soup (at which, of course, she made her own noodles from scratch). Mom's even had her own (massive) garden, and we butchered our own chickens (small hobby farm). </p><p>"So when this pandemic hit, I started throwing the f'k down in the kitchen. Well... needless to say I've been using garlic a good bit because—let's be honest if you're not using garlic, you're not cooking most meals right—it's f'king delicious. And this one tip is going to level up my game so f'king hard it's not even funny. RIP, mom. You are hugely missed. I'll keep cooking till I die and every time I hit the recipe/idea just right, imma think of you."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/k92vh5/chefs_of_reddit_what_are_some_cooking_tips/gf2scou?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">newsydaniel</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_8" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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If someone knows that an upcoming meal is to be their last, the specific food choices would appear to be the least of their problems.
Execution, the final days of a dreadful illness, or a psychic understanding of catastrophe in the making would likely be involved.
And yet, countless people on the internet thoroughly enjoyed discussing what they'd like to eat for their last meal in a recent Reddit thread.
Some were dedications to home-cooking and fond memories. Some showed commitment to out and out decadence. And others were sneaky ways to cheat death.
MunchkinsOG asked, "What would your last meal be and why?"
Parting Surprise
"Raw popcorn kernels. They're gonna have a blast when they cremate me." -- Fordawinman
"Going out with a bang" -- shiny-spleen
"Seeing that I have good fat storage built up around my belly, it'll smell like bacon flavored popcorn!" -- HookerofMemoryLane
Living It Up
"Super spicy pizza - I won't have to worry about acid reflux." -- Jedi_Fisherman
"Yes! Get all the spice and none of the regrets." -- MunchkinsOG
"This is my choice also, though for a different reason. Lactose intolerance." -- elee0228
Seasonal Chaos
"A Mcrib and a Shamrock Shake. What are the odds that a Mcrib and a Shamrock Shake as re gonna be out at the same time?" -- TheUrbanSaint
"Guess they'll just have to postpone the execution until they get both at the same time!" -- mart1373
"Just request one Mcflurry from every McDonald's in the world. Guaranteed at least half the machines will be down meaning you won't die" -- SithLordScoobyDooku
Buying Some Time
"I'd ask for the world's rarest truffle. Then while they were searching for it, I'd tunnel my way to freedom."
"Of course, then I'd miss eating the world's rarest truffle."
-- foofan22
A High Carb Fountain of Youth
"The Never Ending Pasta Bowl (olive garden)." -- arachnidtree
"taps head Can't die if your last meal is never-ending" -- justabill71
"But you have to spend the rest of your life only eating Olive Garden pasta... so you're alive, but at what cost?" -- Yourstruly0
Fancy Finale
"Lobster cause I want to know what it tastes like but I'm not rich enough to get it. Plus happy cake day." -- TheIceCreamCones
"Fun bit of history, they used to feed lobster to the prisoners in Boston because it was so plentiful that it wasn't even considered a delicacy. How the times have changed!" -- PlaneShenaniganz
Going Out Stuffed
"Enough sushi to put me on a good coma before I get the juice." -- FreeSirius
"I love sushi but I'm allergic, every time I eat more than 80 pieces I barf." -- chesterSteihl69
"My only issue is bad sushi is really bad while good sushi is heavenly and I don't trust the sushi chef skills of a prison cook." -- mousicle
Full Circle
"Tortilla with black whole beans, with a side of crema, and pan fried platano. To remind me of my homeland one last time." -- interceptor101
"Mmmm i'm Salvadorian and this is one of my favorites. The Platanos Fritos hit different." -- Wisegangsta7
"Not hundurean, salvadoran here but hey, can totally relate to that my dude" -- Omira_Motaki
Just a Solid Meal
"Nice big ribeye, baked potato with butter and sour cream, asparagus, grilled, or sautéed in butter, lobster tail and/or a good crab or lobster bisque..."
"...all washed down with a quality beer, like a Heady Topper, or Pliny the Elder."
-- justabill71
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People Share Which Foods They Can't Believe Their Ancestors Discovered Were Edible
September 03 | 2020
Photo by Raspopova Marina on Unsplash
Imagine being hungry during the caveman days and contemplating whether or not you can eat that giant serpent that just slithered across your path.
Or being captivated by the brightness of a berry and assuming it is delicious enough to eat.
<p>In both scenarios, you either lived to share your delectable discovery with others or died from ingesting something not meant for human consumption. That is, if you weren't consumed first. <br></p><p>Thanks to our intrepid ancestors who did all the hard work for us to determine what was good enough to eat, the only thing we need to worry about is the expiration date.</p><p><strong>Curious to pick the brain of strangers, Redditor <a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/cplfromholland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cplfromholland</a> asked:</strong><br></p><blockquote><em><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">"What food has made you wonder: 'How did our ancestors discovered that this was edible?'"</a></em></blockquote>
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Maybe The Third Time's A Charm
<p>"Not exactly a common food, but was watching an episode of one of those survival shows that were popular several years ago. The guy was trying to survive in the South American rainforests and came across a kind of frond eaten by the locals."</p><p>"The part that caught me off guard was that he explained the frond couldn't be eaten raw. Trying to eat it uncooked would cause horrible digestive problems, namely diarrhea and cramps, It would be unpleasant but survivable. So the guy boils the frond... and explains that it's still inedible. In order to safely eat this frond you had to boil it once, toss the water out, and then boil it a second time before eating it."</p><p>"Some dude a long time ago had to trial and error his way through this; what motherf'ker was like 'yes this made me violently sh*t myself the last two times I tried it, but maybe this time will be different.'"</p><p>– <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3ikwsq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3">Dalstrong_Shadow</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_36" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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All Fish Are Not Created Equal
<p>"Pufferfish. Generally they are extremely poisonous to humans and will cause paralysis or death. However, you can eat it if properly handled. How many people had to die to figure out which parts could be consumed and how they needed to be prepared."</p><p>"You still occasionally see people getting sick from eating it at restaurants now. If I recall correctly, I think I once read chefs who use it in Japan must take a written examination regarding the proper food care when handling it before being able to serve it. Absolutely wild to think people take the risk to eat it."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3idyie?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">7evanUP</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_2" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Hyper Goats
<p><strong>"Coffee."</strong></p><p>"Legend has it that it was goats. A farmer noticed his goats acting differently when eating a certain cherry, and somehow, processing, roasting, and grinding the beans to drink became quite a popular thing."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3idz0a?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">Royal_Clog</a></p><p>"That's correct as far as I'm aware - an Ethiopian goat farmer in the 9th century noticed his goats became more energetic after eating the coffee cherry. I'm not sure if he was the one that then took the beans, roasted them and brewed them, but Kaldi, the goat farmer is often attributed with the discovery of the elixir of life."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3ifk2r?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">wilko790</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_3" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Edible-Nest Swiftlet
<p>"How bout some bird-spit soup."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3i5a9a?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">FannyPackHater2348</a></p><p>"In a few Asian countries, swifts nest are collected to make soup. Swifts build their nest with their spit. Their saliva is a delicacy in south east Asia and it is supposed to have multiple health benefits."</p><p>– <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3iepvx?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3">Meanwhile-in-Paris</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_4" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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The Foulest Fruit
<p>"Dudes - who the f'k cracked open a durian and decided that yes, I will eat the thing that smells of dead and onion."</p><p>– <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3idba7?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3">pm_your_masterpiece<br></a></p><p>"I got curious and bought one from Chinatown in NYC."</p><p>"The man selling it asked me with broken English and a shit eating grin 'you want me open this?' To which I replied 'no, I know what I'm buying.'"</p><p>"I opened it on my back porch and the smell made me gag. Tastes like onion custard. Wouldn't recommend."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3j1tfk?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">Konouchii</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_5" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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"Cancer Lump"
<p>"F'kin Cashews man. The process is so complicated. They grow on the underside of a fruit, like a single testicle w a lump of cancer on the end. Once you take the nut off, you have to fry it past 190 degrees <em>Celsius</em> to process the shells, because inside those shells is not only the cashew, but an extremely caustic acid that will burn you if not cooked out. Who the f'k wanted to eat the cancer lump that bad?"</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3ihy45?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">Funky_Vro<br></a></p><p>"Anything that takes multiple steps to make it edible always makes me wonder who had the patience to figure out all the steps."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3j7ut5?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">obxsoundside</a><br></p>Fungus Among Us
<p>Mushrooms, so many are poisonous, but someone kept trying h them." </p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3igu5z?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">mastercotcot</a></p><p>"'All fungi are edible. Some fungi are only edible once.' - Terry Pratchett"</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3j3l2a?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">little_brown_bat</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_6" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Aged Dairy
<p>"A lot of dairy products.... sour cream, it's in the name, it's sour, gone bad, but nope, let's just give it a taste, cottage cheese, I don't know where cottage comes from but it's literally curdled.... let's just dig in and see what we got here... I'm sure most of this stuff was discovered during a famine."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3ich9u?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">DoSitDown</a><br></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_7" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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<p>"Oysters. That mother f'ker was hungry."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3i9k3s?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/OptymusPrimal/" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3i9k3s?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">OptymusPrimal</a></p><p>"20,000 years ago: 'Hey, maybe if you pry open this rock there will be something to eat inside.'"</p><p><em>"ker-pry"</em></p><p>"What did you find?"</p><p>"Snot"</p><p>"Cool I bet it goes with cocktail sauce"</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3if3au?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">refreshing_username</a><br></p>
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<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYwNTE4NC9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNDgwNTI0N30.hDig2wCITWEVo24-lX-1ZEdTr7w9r7OCGNMXYcIjz6I/img.gif?width=980" id="be1b9" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9dde678a2270fdb6ca43d9948a2d67c3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="450" data-height="360" />Giphy
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<p>"Soy sauce. It's a bunch of rotten soy bean juice with salt in it. Who tf thought that was a good idea to try."</p><p>– <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/ik47fc/what_food_has_made_you_wonder_how_did_our/g3i5sw2?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a><a target="_blank">Not_a_Heptapod</a><br></p>
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Macaroni and cheese is a timeless institution. Whether it traces its origins to the pastas of Italy or the epicenter of Goulash in modern-day Hungary, it is now here.
It is here, it is everywhere, all ages adore it, and--most importantly--it's full of opportunity.
<p>A recent Reddit thread asked for input from the creative minds of the internet's far reaches. Noodle artists came from far and wide to offer their artistic visions for the basic mac and cheese canvas. </p><p>The list came together to offer a wonderful menu of new options for the future of your mac and cheese making. Various meats, spices, preparation methods, and oddball ingredients were all covered.</p><p>The thread was an illustration of crowd-sourcing at its finest. </p><p>Redditor_2017 asked, <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">"What do you add to enhance Mac and Cheese?"</a></p>
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Necessity Drives Innovation
<p>"Picky eaters in my house have caused much experimentation with this already wonderful meal."</p><p>"Some upgrades:"</p><ol><li>"Any protein. Sausages, tuna, turkey, and so on."</li><li>"Try adding small amount of other cheeses to the mixing step. Velveeta for cheap. Parmesean for flavor and texture. Try Gouda for smoky. Sure, you could just add more cheddar (mild for additional cheesy flavor, medium for subtle uptick, sharp for a lot more cheesy bang)."</li><li>"Hot sauce. There are endless flavor variations here."</li><li>"I've heard cream corn is good to add, but I'm not that crazy."</li></ol><div>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gupe4?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Topper2121</a></div><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_36" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Fats and Lipids, Baby
<p>"Bacon and a little tiny bit of truffle oil."</p><p>"My friends and I had a mac'n'cheese competition night a few years back. We all made our own versions of loaded mac'n'cheese and everyone + significant others voted on their favorite. These were my favorite additions."</p><p>"PS most of the people in my friend group are at least slightly lactose-intolerant, but we persevered."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gtz1n?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">nwcoconut</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_2" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Covers All the Bases
<p>"I like to combine smoked Gouda + old sharp cheddar + mozzarella. You get the strong flavor, melted stringy cheese goodness and some smoked flavor that is always welcomed." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1h28r7?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank" rel="dofollow">moy-moi</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I like sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and goat cheese, plus I replace the butter with mascarpone. Sometimes I add some fresh, finely chopped rosemary, too." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1i8s7e?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Rubinev</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_3" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Trifecta
<p>"Bacon, garlic salt and cayenne pepper." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gt0g7?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">GrilledStuffedDragon</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Can interchange bacon with chicken and jalapeño or any peppers will do. The college meal would be hot dogs" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1ho5ys?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Shi**yLiftingTips</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"garlic salt and pepper automatically make any dish better. it is known" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1hm1zg?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank" rel="dofollow">Pyrle</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_4" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Mustard From Out of Nowhere
<p>"Gruyere, paprika, cayenne, ground mustard." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gwk8x?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">01kaj10</a><span></span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I made this exact mixture the first time I made homemade Mac and cheese. It's delicious. I just threw it all together without any recipe thinking 'this might be good.' "</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"If I make boxed Mac and cheese now I always throw in some smoked paprika and fresh ground pepper. It tastes so much better." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1ja9v8?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">pocketchange2247</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Yes. Also English mustard and mustard seeds. I put mustard seeds in way too many foods" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1jbrwh?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Lonelysock2</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_5" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Ideal Leftover Collaboration
<p>"Mac n cheese and baked brown beans are DELICIOUS together. Nothing fancy, just Kraft and Bush's"</p><p>"I also love when the stars align and I have leftover mac n cheese AND leftover taco meat. They are so good mixed together!"</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1h4w0f?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">peon2</a></p>Protein Boosts
<p>"Chorizo is the best addition I've come across so far, a friend suggested it a little while back and it's quickly become my favorite enhancement!"</p><p>"Tuna has also been pretty good, I'll usually put in a can and it mixes in pretty well."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gt8xy?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Anjodu</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_6" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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The Right Tools
<p>"Well I'm not sure if this is going to count, but instead of using a stove I use my pellet smoker. If you have a smoker I 100% encourage you to try this!" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gxmnj?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">BlueCollarComedyTour</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I will for sure be giving this a try." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1ha43g?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Thechaser45</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Bro, do you smoke?" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1ig3hx?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Genocide_Fan</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_7" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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Very Enthusiastic About Bread Crumbs
<p>"BREAD CRUMBS" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gv5od?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">picklesupreme</a><span></span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Onion powder works pretty well too, plus some freshly grated cheese (as opposed to pre packaged grated cheese)" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gvauq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">picklesupreme</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Hol' up" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1ik3bs?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank" rel="dofollow">Crumbs04</a></p><div data-conversation-spotlight style="min-height:90px"></div>
All the Food Groups
<p>"Peas. Because peas are awesome and I can lie to myself about now unhealthy my meal really is" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1gwxno?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">SaltyChickenDip</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Oh my gosh all the indulgent answers had kind of shamed me out of saying this! So I'm glad there's someone else out there!" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1hfh1s?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Manatee3232</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I came here to find somebody else commenting 'peas.' Peas and tuna all the way." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/i9qx68/what_do_you_add_to_enhance_mac_and_cheese/g1iacdz?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x" target="_blank">Niles4Me</a></p><div class="ad-tag" data-ad-name="In_Content_Responsive_8" style="min-height:280px"></div>
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