Best Apps and Websites for Planning Menus and Finding Recipes

When it comes to planning your weekly menu or finding new recipes, there are a plethora of apps and websites available. While some platforms are best suited for specific geographic locations, your go-to options should provide a comprehensive and user-friendly experience. In this article, we'll explore the top choices, whether you're in the USA or anywhere else in the world.

Yummly: A Comprehensive Choice

If you are based in the USA, Yummly is an excellent choice for those who want more than just recipe suggestions. It offers a wide range of dishes, personalized recommendations, and advanced search filters that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions. For instance, you can filter searches by cuisine type, ingredients, dietary needs, and cooking time. However, following one of Yummly's recent updates, if you're opening a new account from outside of the USA, you'll either need to pay for the full version or settle with a stripped-down version without the advanced search tools. Fortunately, I was able to keep my old account from my previous device, providing me access to the full version. Additionally, the app generally performs better on iOS compared to Android, a personal observation I'd like to share.

Google and BBC Good Food

For a beginner or for those looking for more straightforward options, Google and BBC Good Food are highly recommended. These platforms offer a wealth of recipes from various supermarkets and food manufacturers. The advantage of these sites is their accessibility and the fact that they don't require a premium subscription. Instead, you can find guilt-free browsing and a large variety of recipe options. The user experience is generally smooth, and you don't need to worry about additional costs.

Food Network and All Recipes

If you're looking for a perfect blend of user-friendly interface and extensive resources, Food Network and All Recipes are outstanding. These sites and their associated apps are absolute favorites among enthusiasts, offering a vast collection of recipes from renowned chefs and culinary experts. Whether you're trying to recreate a dish from a TV show or want to explore more unique and creative recipes, these platforms are your best bet. The added advantage of these platforms is their regular updates, which ensure that the content remains fresh and relevant, catering to all types of cooking aficionados.

YouTube: A Video Guide to Cooking

While many cooking websites offer step-by-step written instructions, I recommend checking out YouTube for a more visual guide to cooking. YouTube videos can provide a comprehensive understanding of the cooking process, offering step-by-step demonstrations that can be particularly helpful for beginners. Many channels offer detailed explanations and even tips on time management and ingredient quality, making the cooking experience more enjoyable and less daunting.

To sum up, whether you're in the USA or anywhere else, there are plenty of great options for planning your menus and finding delicious recipes. From Yummly to Food Network, each platform caters to different needs, preferences, and budgets. Experiment with a few to find the one that works best for you!