Latest news with #sololiving
The Guardian
05-08-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Frying solo? 20 pantry, fridge and freezer essentials for single households
A decade ago I put together a Running Away from Home Cookbook as a gentle nudge to one of my millennial chicks. Too gentle as it turned out – 10 years later I was the one who left home. After a lifetime of cooking for the multitudes, I have adapted to cooking for one. It's been both a relief and a revelation. Single householders aged 65 and over are increasing as a proportion of the population. I am one of that large cohort. Whatever the circumstances, people living solo – whether alone or in a share house – can eat well and inexpensively. By making the most of whatever pantry, fridge and freezer space is at your disposal, you can prepare something nutritious and delicious. Limited bench, cooktop and oven space can still produce the best kind of fast food. The fewer ingredients and steps, the less kitchen real estate and hardware required. What follows are cook-to-survive recipes, with pantry items that speed up the process, such as ready-to-use minced ginger, crushed garlic and microwaveable rice. Pick and choose accordingly. Sign up for the fun stuff with our rundown of must-reads, pop culture and tips for the weekend, every Saturday morning Oil Olives Good quality anchovies Vinegar Tinned tomatoes Coconut cream Tinned tuna Chickpeas Dukkah Pasta, noodles and rice Olive oil is the oil of choice if pasta is your go-to cupboard meal. Light olive oil has a higher smoke point than extra-virgin olive oil and can be used in cooking and for dressings. Nut and sesame oils have a more limited shelf life and are generally used in smaller quantities, so buy small and check the use-by date regularly. The oil from marinated olives or cheeses can be used to make Swedish crispbread, in dressings or drizzled over roasted vegetables for antipasto. Good-quality anchovies are more subtle in taste than their less expensive cousins and are the foundation for an excellent pasta sauce when mixed with oil, lemon, garlic, rosemary and any other fresh herbs. Add them as a tuna alternative to leftover steamed or baked potatoes, tomatoes (chopped or cherry), boiled eggs, black olives, green beans and capsicums with a drizzle of oil and vinegar for a delicious salade niçoise. If tinned, in glass or in a vacuum-sealed pack, any leftover anchovies can be divided up and frozen in usable quantities. Balsamic vinegar can be used on its own or combined with oil to dress salads and roast vegetables. Rice wine vinegar is used extensively in Asian cooking, and can be used at a pinch as a substitute for white, white wine and apple cider vinegars. Tinned chickpeas and diced or pureed tomatoes are great for soups and curries. Any leftover tomato can be microwaved (lid on) in five-minute bursts to reduce and thicken to make a great pizza base either on its own or combined with fresh herbs or pesto. Dukkah, a spicy mix of cumin, coriander, almonds and sesame seeds, is an essential weapon in my cooking armoury. Try dipping some good bread first in a pot of good olive oil, then in a pot of dukkah. Or split round pita bread in half, brush or spray with olive oil and sprinkle dukkah generously over the top, then bake in a 180C oven until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm or allow to cool and seal in an airtight container. It will last for up to a week. I use coconut cream powder as a space-efficient alternative to the tinned version. When mixed with water, or the hot liquid from whatever you're cooking, it doubles as a thickener so you get all the coconut flavour you want without watering down the sauce. Pasta, noodles and rice are must-have items in my pantry. I prefer the old-fashioned environment-friendly absorption method of cooking rice but have been known to keep a pouch or two of microwaveable rice handy for emergencies. Minced ginger Roasted garlic Parmesan, grated or block Pesto Mayonnaise Stir-fry sauce Sign up to Saved for Later Catch up on the fun stuff with Guardian Australia's culture and lifestyle rundown of pop culture, trends and tips after newsletter promotion To my taste buds, commercial minced ginger is an acceptable substitute for fresh and I love the added zing it gives a stir-fry. For those who don't like the taste of commercial crushed garlic in a jar, roasted garlic is a delicious alternative that will keep for weeks in a sealed container in the fridge and can be squeezed out of their cloves as required. Whenever the oven is on, I throw in a whole garlic or two and leave it there for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the garlic cloves are soft and squishy. I'm a fan of freshly grated parmesan, but for the time poor, you can't beat pre-grated commercial parmesan. A block can last for weeks if kept in sealed plastic in the fridge. I still haven't found a commercial pesto that doesn't have an unpleasant aftertaste so I make my own. I either bottle it in small jars and seal each with a top layer of oil to make it airtight, or freeze it in ice cube trays. With a space-saving mincing wand and any old combination of basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts and olive oil (with or without parmesan) a world of lightning-fast meals-for-one opens up to you. Try these pesto baked eggs for one. Give me a good-quality store-bought mayonnaise and I'll show you a shortcut to happiness. Mix it with boiled eggs and a really good curry mix and lather it on excellent bread, with or without rocket. Or add some of that roasted garlic and serve it as aioli with leftover meat, seafood, roast vegetables, boiled eggs. Nagi Maehashi's all-purpose stir-fry sauce is an absolute winner. It can be used in place of the chilli oil and sauce in Justin Tsang's chilli oil udon and it can also be frozen into ice cube containers. Homemade stock Frozen peas Lemon and lime juice ice cubes Pizza bases Whenever you cook a roast chicken, you have the potential for any number of soups, risottos and sauces. I keep leftover bones and skin in a sealed plastic bag in the fridge or freezer until I'm at home for the four hours it takes to turn them into stock. Add enough salted water to a pot to just cover them, add leftover carrot, celery and onion ends and simmer them – lid off – until the mixture reduces by half or until it reaches your preferred flavour intensity. Frozen peas can be thrown into the pasta pot for the final two minutes of cooking time. Drain then add a good dollop of oil and some pesto and grated parmesan from your fridge or freezer. A squeeze of lemon or lime is an essential feature of many pasta, noodle or salad dishes, so having frozen cubes of juice is handy for when you don't want to slice into a whole fruit. If you have a pizza base, some pesto, reduced tomato puree and mozzarella is all you need for a delicious margherita. Try adding leftover ham, salami, olives or, if you fancy it, tandoori chicken slices for a truly delicious fast meal.
Arab News
18-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Arab News
Solo but not sad: Young Saudis embrace freedom of living alone
ALKHOBAR: For decades, the idea of a young Saudi living alone, by choice, was seen as rebellious and met with skepticism and rejection. But today, a new generation is embracing solo life with pride and a sense of personal power. Across major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and Alkhobar, young Saudis in their 20s are carving out homes of their own — not out of necessity but out of a desire for independence, comfort and self-growth. From students to young professionals, both women and men are stepping into their own apartments, styling their own spaces and redefining what it means to build a life. Sarah Al-Ahmadi, 27, moved into her own apartment in Riyadh two years ago. At first, the silence was unbearable. 'I've lived alone for two years now. At the beginning, I was depressed — I didn't like the lifestyle, especially in Riyadh,' she said. 'I couldn't make friends, and I didn't like the city. But over time, I started to build a life. Now, I can't imagine living any other way.' What once felt isolating became empowering. Al-Ahmadi discovered joy in being the sole decision-maker in her home: What she ate, how she decorated and who she invited, and when. 'It's amazing to be fully independent and responsible for everything in my home,' she said. 'I don't need anyone. It's beautiful when I invite my friends to a space that reflects my personality. Back at my parents' house, I had to host them in the family living room. But here, we can cook together, have sleepovers and enjoy ourselves without a single worry.' • From students to young professionals, both women and men are stepping into their own apartments, styling their own spaces and redefining what it means to build a life. • Waad Al-Marzouq's family lives in the same city, and she sees them often. But the freedom of having her own space has changed how she views. Mohammed Al-Dossari, 26, made the decision to live alone after returning from years of studying abroad. 'After coming back from my scholarship abroad, I decided not to move back in with my family,' he said. 'I had already gotten used to being responsible for myself, for everything — and I liked that lifestyle. I wanted to keep it going.' For Al-Dossari, solo living is not just about space, it is also about ownership: Of time, of priorities and of life itself. Today, he manages his work schedule, home maintenance and meals on his own. He described his home as peaceful, personalized and reflective of who he is — not just as a son, but as a man finding his rhythm. In Jeddah, Waad Al-Marzouq, 19, faced resistance from almost everyone she knew after floating the idea of living alone. 'Everyone was against it. My dad was especially worried about me living alone at such a young age,' she said. 'But I've always been stable and independent in my own room, so I thought — why not? I got myself a studio apartment near my university and moved in.' Al-Marzouq's family lives in the same city, and she sees them often. But the freedom of having her own space has changed how she views adulthood. 'There's nothing scary about it. My parents are nearby. I still see them. But now I have space to focus, to grow. It's not a rebellion — it's a choice.' Al-Marzouq said living alone is important for design: Designing her days, her goals and even designing her tiny studio with candles, plants and her favorite throw pillows. Social shifts have helped normalize solo living. More women are entering the workforce. Young Saudis are studying abroad. New real estate developments are offering studio and one-bedroom units in urban areas. Platforms like Airbnb and online property apps have also made it easier to search, rent and furnish without needing a family member to step in. Psychologist Abeer Al-Shammari told Arab News that the rise in solo living reflects both emotional maturity and social evolution. 'Choosing to live alone can signal a strong sense of self,' she said. 'These young adults are setting boundaries, creating their own routines and building self-reliance. It's not just a lifestyle — it's part of their identity development.' But she warned that solo living also requires emotional preparation. 'The early phase can trigger anxiety or loneliness, especially for those coming from tightly-knit families,' she said. 'But with time and proper coping strategies, many experience a deep sense of fulfillment and confidence.' Interestingly, many solo dwellers say their relationships with family have improved since moving out. 'They don't take me for granted anymore,' Al-Ahmadi said with a laugh. 'When I visit now, it feels special. I'm not just 'around.' I'm someone they wait for.' Al-Marzouq agreed: 'My parents respect my independence now. We talk more meaningfully. There's more mutual understanding.' And for Al-Dossari, solo living has not resulted in isolation. He has become more intentional about friendships — hosting friends for dinner, going out when he wants and setting healthy boundaries. 'It taught me balance,' he said. 'And it taught me how to enjoy my own company.'
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Women Who Live Alone Are Sharing The Home Safety Tips That Help Them Sleep Easier At Night, And I'm Absolutely Taking Notes
Bella DePaulo, a 71-year-old author and social psychologist, has lived alone her entire adult life. Related: As the author of books like Single at Heart: The Power, Freedom, and Heart-Filling Joy of Single Life, she's become a bit of an evangelist for solo living. When she hears other women at book talks or at parties discuss how fulfilling it is to live alone, she doesn't need to be convinced. 'I love the complete freedom to sleep when I want and get up when I want, to eat what I want and when I want, and to find that whatever I put in the refrigerator the night before is still there the next day,' she told HuffPost. 'My place is always exactly as warm or as cool as I want it to be. And the toilet seat is always down,' she joked. The hand reaching for the thermostat. Concept of smart home. The number of women living alone has grown in DePaulo's time. In 2022, 15.7% of all households in the United States consisted of a woman living alone, compared to 11.5% in 1970. She loves it, but she gets it's not for everyone. There are certainly financial constraints ― in 2025, it's not uncommon for people well beyond their 20s or college years to live with roommates because of housing costs, especially in cities. But other women shy away from living alone out of concern for their safety — understandably so. Everyday activities that men often take for granted ― going on a walk in the evening, even in a busy public place, opening your door after a late night out ― can be depressingly dangerous for women. Related: That said, DePaulo and other women who've lived alone say there are ways to heighten your safety at home. 'Don't let fear ruin what can be a deeply fulfilling experience,' she said. 'I've been in different neighborhoods in Virginia, Florida, and now in California, and it's rare for me to feel remotely unsafe. A home of your own can be comfortable, peaceful, and safe, maybe even sacred.' We recently asked women who live alone to share their best security tips, from their own lived experiences. See what they had to say below. Introduce yourself and trade phone numbers with your neighbors. 'The biggest tip I can suggest is to get to know your neighbors. Getting to know mine has made me feel so safe. Not only have they become great friends, but they are also extra security when I'm not home. They're always looking out for me, and I do the same for them. It's really taught me how important community is when living alone.' ― Celeste Polanco, a lifestyle influencer Related: Be mindful of what you (and even friends who visit) share online. 'As someone who shares moments of my life publicly, I've learned that boundaries around what ― and when ― I share are non-negotiable. I don't share the local things in my neighborhood or any landmarks. I'm very mindful about sharing the view from my windows or anyone that may work in or around my building. These rules are shared with my friends and family when they visit as well. The outside and inside of my buildings are off-limits. And I ask them to be mindful of geo-tagging because you never know who is watching.' ― Denise Francis, the founder and CEO of The Self Love Organization INC, a digital wellness platform for Black women Related: Install a security camera by your door. 'Having a security camera like a Ring gives me so much peace of mind. I can see who's at my door, and even check in when I'm not home. It's a simple upgrade that makes a huge difference in feeling safe and aware.' ― Emily Sanchez, the owner of the online plant shop Classy Casita Get a pet, if you can. 'Nothing is better than coming home to something cute that's happy you're home and relies on you.' ― Maia Milas, a writer and photographer Take self-defense classes. 'Even if you only sit in on a few sessions, know the basics of defending yourself physically and practice the moves to develop muscle memory. In a panic, you hopefully can resort to what you've learned, which only comes with practice.' ― Milas Have a few small habits that make you feel secure. 'For me, that's double-checking locks on my doors and windows before bed and maybe keeping something for self-defense by the door. It's not about being scared to live alone, it's about feeling in control of your space and having peace of mind.' ― Sanchez Have an emergency contact. 'Make sure you have an emergency contact. A reliable one. Someone who is likely to answer the phone when you call or come to the door when you knock. I had a neighbor who I called once to come over and make sure I didn't fall asleep after I got a concussion. Some things you just can't do alone, and require immediate assistance.' ― Milas This article originally appeared in HuffPost. Also in Goodful: Also in Goodful: Also in Goodful:
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Women Who Live Alone Share The Home Safety Tips That Help Them Sleep Easier At Night
Bella DePaulo, a 71-year-old author and social psychologist, has lived alone her entire adult life. As the author of books like 'Single at Heart: The Power, Freedom, and Heart-Filling Joy of Single Life,' she's become a bit of an evangelist for solo living. When she hears other women at book talks or at parties discuss how fulfilling it is to live alone, she doesn't need to be convinced. 'I love the complete freedom to sleep when I want and get up when I want, to eat what I want and when I want, and to find that whatever I put in the refrigerator the night before is still there the next day,' she told HuffPost. 'My place is always exactly as warm or as cool as I want it to be. And the toilet seat is always down,' she joked. The number of women living alone has grown in DePaulo's time. In 2022, 15.7% of all households in the United States consisted of a woman living alone, compared to 11.5% in 1970. She loves it, but she gets it's not for everyone. There are certainly financial constraints ― in 2025, it's not uncommon for people well beyond their 20s or college years to live with roommates because of housing costs, especially in cities. But other women shy away from living alone out of concern for their safety — understandably so. Everyday activities that men often take for granted ― going on a walk in the evening, even in a busy public place, opening your door after a late night out ― can be depressingly dangerous for women. That said, DePaulo and other women who've lived alone say there are ways to heighten your safety at home. 'Don't let fear ruin what can be a deeply fulfilling experience,' she said. 'I've been in different neighborhoods in Virginia, Florida, and now in California, and it's rare for me to feel remotely unsafe. A home of your own can be comfortable, peaceful, and safe, maybe even sacred.' We recently asked women who live alone to share their best security tips, from their own lived experiences. See what they had to say below. 'The biggest tip I can suggest is to get to know your neighbors. Getting to know mine has made me feel so safe. Not only have they become great friends, but they are also extra security when I'm not home. They're always looking out for me and I do the same for them. It's really taught me how important community is when living alone.' ―Celeste Polanco, a lifestyle influencer 'As someone who shares moments of my life publicly, I've learned that boundaries around what ― and when ― I share are non-negotiable. I don't share the local things in my neighborhood or any landmarks. I'm very mindful about sharing the view from my windows or anyone that may work in or around my building. These rules are shared with my friends and family when they visit as well. The outside and inside of my buildings are off limits. And I ask them to be mindful of geo-tagging because you never know who is watching.' ―Denise Francis, the founder and CEO of The Self Love Organization INC, a digital wellness platform for Black women 'Having a security camera like a Ring gives me so much peace of mind. I can see who's at my door, and even check in when I'm not home. It's a simple upgrade that makes a huge difference in feeling safe and aware.' ― Emily Sanchez, the owner of the online plant shop Classy Casita 'Nothing is better than coming home to something cute that's happy you're home and relies on you.' ―Maia Milas, a writer and photographer 'Even if you only sit in on a few sessions, know the basics of defending yourself physically and practice the moves to develop muscle memory. In a panic, you hopefully can resort to what you've learned, which only comes with practice.' ― Milas 'For me, that's double-checking locks on my doors and windows before bed and maybe keeping something for self defense by the door. It's not about being scared to live alone, it's about feeling in control of your space and having peace of mind.' ― Sanchez 'Make sure you have an emergency contact. A reliable one. Someone who is likely to answer the phone when you call or come to the door when you knock. I had a neighbor who I called once to come over and make sure I didn't fall asleep after I got a concussion. Some things you just can't do alone, and require immediate assistance.' ― Milas More Women Are Saying No To Motherhood. Will Society Ever Listen? 'Boysober' And Celibate By Choice: Why These Women Are Swearing Off Sex 11 Solo Trip Locations Around The World Where Women Feel Really Safe
