Test-Kitchen Trick: Better-Ahead Recipes

Our food editors know a good idea when they see one. Over the years they've learned from each other and discovered lots of tricks, including this one: Some dishes are better when made ahead. Here’s a roundup of some of our test kitchen experts’ favorite foods that become just that much tastier the next day.

Make an irresistible dinner (or three!) with a slow-cooked pork shoulder enriched with pancetta, Belgian ale, and earthy spices.

 

Also try:

Luscious Oven-Braised Short Ribs

Braised Leg of Lamb with Potatoes and Olives

Braised Brisket with Carrots, Garlic, and Parsnips

Coq au Vin

An overnight bath in broth gives lobster stew and seafood gumbo more nuance.

When made ahead, minestrone, chili, beans, curries, and Bolognese sauce become more than the sum of their parts.

Chipotle adds a hint of smokiness as well as a touch of heat to this earthy chili.

 

More Chili Recipes

Pair this meaty, velvety ragu with fresh tagliatelle for a soul-satisfying family dinner.

This beloved Italian soup isn't just hearty and healthy -- it's really flexible. Minestrone typically includes lots of leafy greens, other veggies, and beans. Which to choose? You're limited only by the contents of your refrigerator and pantry.

Beans are money in the bank for the weeknight cook. Simmer a big pot of them and you'll have the main ingredient for three quick, delicious dinners: Bean-and-Fish Tacos, Indian-Spiced Bean-and-Tomato Soup, and Beans on Toast with Crisp Bacon and Eggs.

A homemade blend of garam masala, combined with a paste of onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, lends intoxicating complexity to this Indian curry.

Barbecue sauce, salsa, chutney, Bloody Mary mix: Even add-ins and condiments will be all the better for a day’s rest.

This all-purpose tomato-based sauce balances sweet, savory, and earthy flavors. Use this recipe on its own or as a base for the easy-to-make variations: Smoky Chile and Coffee, Roasted Garlic and Lemon, or Peach and Bourbon.

Honey and cider vinegar contribute to the sweet-savory brightness of this summer chutney. Spread it on sandwiches or serve it with grilled meats.

Oatmeal cookies develop a nice chew after an overnight rest.

 

See More of our Favorite Oatmeal Cookie Recipes.