For most of us, it's a persistent problem - time is often in short supply. But just because you're time poor, doesn't mean you should miss out on the best food that the world has to offer. These recipes are either quick to make or can be partly or totally make ahead, so food is ready in a flash.
Asian
Incredibly diverse, Asian food takes on many forms, like classic East dishes, Indian curries and Middle Eastern feasts, Asia has something on offer for all taste palates.
1. Lemongrass ginger sliders
Fragrant, easy, delicious - perfect! This Burmese recipe is similar to a rissole, producing juicy and seriously tasty patties that can be eaten on their own or made into an easy burger.
2. Indian jaffles two ways
Easy to whip up and really versatile, you can make use of whatever you have on hand with this recipe.
3. Stir-fried chicken with snake beans and chilli relish
Packed full of flavour and really easy to get together, this Indonesian stir-fry is perfect for when the thought of cooking makes you stir-crazy!
4. Tomato-braised okra with Israeli couscous and za'atar
Made with Israeli (aka, pearl) couscous, this is an easy one to put together, despite the forgein-sounding ingredients. Okra is a popular vegetable in the Middle East which looks like a green chilli, but has its own flavour.
African
With 54 different nations on this incredible continent, Africa has a vast range of choice when it comes to easy and delicious meals.
5. Peanut butter chicken skewers with ginger yoghurt
This easy breezy beauty hails from Sierra Leone, where it is often served during Eid al-Fitr celebrations. This one needs a little planning ahead, so the chicken can marinate, but then dinner is really easy.
6. Spicy pickled coleslaw (zasar)
You can thank the people of Mauritius for this simple, quick and healthy dinner. Unlike the coleslaw you'll find on the table at an Aussie BBQ, this one is served hot.
7. Lentils with rice and tomato (koshari)
Egypt's national comfort food may just be your answer to busy night food conundrums. You'll most likely already have all the ingredients in your cupboard, and while the lentils are boiling away, feel free to put your feet up and relax.
8. Tunisian chickpea soup (lablabi)
In Tunisia, this soup is normally enjoyed as a breakfast food, but what's stopping you from serving it up on a chilly winter night? It packs plenty of flavour thanks to the spices and the salty capers, proving that quick doesn't have to equal bland.
Latin American
Sure, a taco kit yields a pretty straight forward dinner, but the vibrant world of Latin America has so much more to offer in the food department. Some are even easier than your classic Old el Paso!
9. Tortillas with beans, cheese and chorizo (baleadas)
Very easy to throw together, these are tortiallas done right (if you ask a Honduran!). Lay the ingredients out and let everyone make their own and enjoy the extra time you now have!
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10. Argentinian-style pork, pumpkin and corn soup
Hearty, healthy and perfect for a busy winter's night, this is a wonderful example of how beautiful South American food can truly be. This soup is straight forward, and you can get on with other jobs while it happily boils away.
11. Quinoa with kohlrabi and pearl onions
Quinoa has been a Peruvian staple for decades, we in the West are quite late to the party! But now we're here, why not enjoy this healthy and versatile grain on the busiest of days as part of this delicious throw-together? The flowers can be swapped for some herbs, if you'd rather.
European
With the expanse of climates, cultures and tastes found across Europe, the continent has the answer to 'what's for dinner?' when you don't have the time.
12. Spicy chicken casserole with celeriac and mango
This casserole has a delightful sweetness from the mango and apple. Served with rice and a dollop of crème fraîche, it's very satisfying without being demanding. Made ahead, this is a great one to reheat and eat.
13. Young spring cabbage with dill and bacon
A tasty and easy throw-together from Poland, this dish is fresh and sure to please. Put your bag down and get going, dinner will be served in no time.
14. Best beef stroganoff
This is one of Russia's favourite quick meals, and it's not hard to see why. Grab the best quality beef you can after work, then get stuck in - a tasty meal isn't far off!
SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only. Read more about SBS Food
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