A fakeaway is simply a takeaway-style meal made at home instead of being ordered from a restaurant or takeaway shop. It’s all about recreating your favourite dishes… think fish and chips, curries, kebabs, burgers, and more – using healthier ingredients and lighter cooking methods. The fakeaway trend has exploded in recent years, especially as more people look for ways to save money, eat better, and enjoy the satisfaction of home cooking.

The fakeaway phenomenon took off during the pandemic, when eating out and ordering in became less frequent for many of us. But even as life returned to normal, the appeal of fakeaways stuck around. Here’s why:

• They’re cheaper: Making your own fakeaway costs far less than ordering from your local takeaway. You can buy ingredients in bulk, cook larger portions, and have leftovers for another day.

• They’re healthier: You control what goes into your food—less oil, less salt, more veggies, leaner meats, and whole grains. Even if your fakeaway isn’t super healthy, just being in charge of the ingredients makes a big difference.

• They’re satisfying: There’s something special about recreating a dish you love and nailing it at home. Plus, you can tweak recipes to suit your taste and dietary needs.

• They’re fun: Cooking fakeaways can be a great way to get creative in the kitchen and involve the whole family.

One of the best things about fakeaways is how easy it is to make them healthier than their takeaway counterparts. Takeaways are often high in calories, saturated fats, salt, and sugar, with oversized portions and hidden ingredients. When you make fakeaways at home, you can:

• Control portion sizes
• Reduce or swap out unhealthy fats and sugars
• Use lean proteins and more vegetables
• Choose wholegrain options for rice, pasta, or bread
• Bake, grill, or air fry instead of deep frying

This means you can enjoy all the flavour of your favourite meals while staying on track with your health goals.

You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make a great fakeaway, but a few gadgets can make things easier and healthier:

Air Fryer

The air fryer is a game-changer for fakeaways. It uses hot air to crisp up food, giving you that fried texture with a fraction of the oil. Chips, chicken, samosas, spring rolls, and even doughnuts can all be made lighter in the air fryer.

Slow Cooker

For curries, stews, pulled meats, and even fakeaway kebabs, the slow cooker is your best friend. It lets you cook low and slow, developing deep flavours and tender textures without loads of added fat.

Other Handy Gadgets include…

• Electric grill or griddle for burgers and kebabs
• Wok for stir fries and noodles
• Blender for homemade sauces and dips

Ready to get started? Here’s how to turn your favourite takeaway into a healthy home recipe:

Choose Healthier Ingredients

• Swap deep-fried for air-fried or baked.
• Use lean meats like chicken breast, turkey, or fish.
• Add plenty of vegetables for colour, crunch, and fibre.
• Use wholegrain rice, pasta, or bread.
• Make your own sauces to control sugar and salt.

Cook with Less Oil

Air fryers and oven baking let you use much less oil than traditional frying. If you do need oil, use a spray or brush on just a little.

Control Your Portions

Takeaway portions are often massive. At home, you can serve up just the right amount for you and your family, helping to avoid overeating.

Batch Cook and Meal Prep

Fakeaways are perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch of curry or chilli, portion it out, and freeze for easy, healthy meals all week long.

Get Creative

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try new spices, swap ingredients, or add your own twist to classic recipes. Cooking at home means you’re in charge.

• Plan ahead: Check your cupboards and plan your fakeaway night in advance.
• Get the family involved: Kids love helping to prepare their own burgers, pizzas, or wraps.
• Make it a treat: Set the table, put on your favourite music, and enjoy your fakeaway as a special occasion.
• Try new things: Explore cuisines from around the world—Indian, Chinese, Thai, Mexican, and more!
• Freeze leftovers: Most fakeaways freeze well, so you can always have a healthy meal ready.

Let’s break down why fakeaways are winning over so many fans across the UK:

• Healthier: You control the ingredients, cooking methods, and portion sizes.
• Cheaper: Home recipes cost a fraction of what you’d pay for a takeaway.
• Customisable: Adjust recipes for allergies, dietary needs, or personal tastes.
• Fresher: Meals are cooked and served straight away, without sitting in a delivery bag.
• Satisfying: There’s a real sense of achievement in making your own version of a classic dish.

How is a fakeaway different from a takeaway?

A fakeaway is a homemade version of a takeaway meal. You get all the flavours and fun of your favourite dishes, but you make them yourself at home, often in a healthier and more affordable way.

Are fakeaway recipes healthier than takeaways?

Yes! Fakeaway recipes usually use less oil, salt, and sugar, and more fresh ingredients. You can also control your portion sizes and cooking methods, making it much easier to stick to your health goals.

What kitchen gadgets can I use for fakeaways?

Air fryers and slow cookers are two of the best gadgets for fakeaways. Air fryers make food crispy with hardly any oil, while slow cookers are perfect for rich curries, stews, and pulled meats. You can also use a grill, oven, or wok for different recipes.

Can I make fakeaway recipes in an air fryer or slow cooker?

Absolutely! Many fakeaway recipes are designed for air fryers and slow cookers, making it easy to create healthier versions of your favourite meals at home.

What are some popular fakeaway dishes?

Fish and chips, curries, kebabs, burgers, pizzas, and stir fries are all fakeaway favourites. You can find healthy recipes for all of these and more!

Ready to ditch the takeaway menu and start making your own healthy recipes at home? Grab your air fryer, fire up the slow cooker, and explore the world of fakeaways. You’ll save money, eat better, and discover a new love for home cooking. For more inspiration, check out our collection of fakeaway recipes on Bored of Lunch… packed with easy-to-follow, delicious ideas for every night of the week.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your next fakeaway night!