Get creative during quarantine with these free online cooking classes

It would be easy to feel bored during the Coronavirus lockdown, but cooking is the perfect pastime – and it comes with delicious results! But with supermarket shelves often empty of everyday ingredients, many of us are struggling with knowing what to cook with the limited items we have at home.

Luckily, several chefs and even home cooks have come forward to help us get through quarantine with free online cooking classes that focus on easy-to-follow recipes that use minimal ingredients, as well sharing tips and simple swaps. It’s the ultimate way to get creative in the kitchen whilst connecting with the community of fellow food lovers. So without further ado, here are some of the best ones to keep an eye out for. Whilst not strictly plant-based, vegetarian or vegan, all of them do feature meat-free and dairy-free recipes as well as options to swap ingredients. So tune in and get cooking!

1. Wagamama

Missing your usual fix of katsu curry and vegan ramen? You're in luck then, because popular Asian chain wagamama has launched 'wok from home' – free online pan-Asian cookery classes. Presented by executive chef Steve Mangleshot, the series will consist of videos that show you how to recreate wagamama's delicious dishes at home. Best of all, Steve will be cooking from his own home kitchen (with his kids as his sous chefs!), so you won't find any fancy equipment or recipes here: instead, it's all about simple ingredients and easy skills that anyone can learn. Videos will stream on Wednesdays and Fridays on Facebook, Instagram, IGTV and YouTube.

2. Jack Monroe

As people struggled to get their hands on what would normally be considered staple ingredients, Tin Can Cook author Jack Monroe took to Twitter to help desperate cooks as they raided their cupboards for something that could combine to make a substantial meal. #jackmonroeslockdownlarder consequently became one of the most trending hashtags in the Twitter realm as people desperately sought out Jack's clever ideas, tips and quick recipes using the minimal ingredients. Now, the mum, cook and author is celebrating the launch of her first cooking show. Daily Kitchen will air on BBC One from 13th April, with daily shows at 10am featuring Jack and broadcaster Matt Tebbutt. As the queen of budget cooking, Jack has no doubt mastered the ability to whip up creative and delicious dishes that will certainly inspire you during the lockdown.

3. BOSH!

The UK's bestselling vegan authors Henry Firth and Ian Theasby launched their cookalong series, taking place throughout April on their YouTube channel. Join the duo in the kitchen every weeknight at 6pm where they'll be sharing classic BOSH! recipes from their bestselling books, TV series and viral videos. Best of all, the recipes are all plant-based, with dishes like Easy Curry Crusted Potatoes and Guacajacks. The ingredient list is shared ahead of time for those who want to join in, but even if you don't have all of the ingredients, Henry and Ian will offer up easy swaps and tips throughout.

4. Jamie Oliver

The nation has been following this celebrity chef for quite some time, and it seems a little lockdown won't stop him from sharing recipes with his fans. Jamie's Keep Cooking and Carry On show features easy-to-follow, flexible recipes as well as useful tips and swaps to help you create meals, even if you have limited ingredients to hand. Expect some freezer favourites and delicious store cupboard creations. Missed an episode? Don't worry, you can find all of the recipes – including veggie quesadillas, cauliflower mac and cheese, and eggless chocolate cake – on his website.

5. The Big Bakes

If, like us, you're using lockdown as a time to master your baking skills, then this one's for you. Pop-up baking competition The Big Bakes has switched gears and now hosts virtual baking classes that are broadcast from the event's baking tents. Each week, the team shares three bake-at-home classes in 2-3 minute videos that feature step-by-step instructions. The idea is that recipes are easy to follow, and use day-to-day ingredients and standard equipment found at home, so anyone can join in. To take part, simply visit @Thebig_bakes on Facebook or Instagram, where you'll find a list of the necessary ingredients ahead of the next class.