Let’s be real, we tend to just eat anything when we’re busy, not thinking about its nutritional content or if we’re even eating on time. But in a fast-paced and demanding world, our bodies need the right amount of energy and one way of sourcing it is through healthy meals.
That’s why I’m introducing you to meal prep—the ultimate efficiency hack that allows you to save time on cooking and to take control of your health. To do it right, you don’t just need recipes. Let’s look at the essential meal prep tools to make the process extra seamless.
Is Meal Prep Healthy?
At its core, meal prep is the process of planning and preparing meals or ingredients ahead of time. This can range from portioning out full cooked dinners to simply chopping vegetables for your salad of the week.
But is it actually healthy? The answer is a resounding yes.
- Portion Control: When you prep in advance, you’re less likely to overeat because your servings are already measured.
- Nutritional Management: You control exactly what goes into your food—no hidden sugars or excessive sodium unlike in takeouts.
- Better Food Choices: Knowing your lunch is ready reduces the impulsive, unhealthy food choices when you’re too occupied to think of what to eat.
Tips to Start Your Meal Prep
Health is wealth but time is gold as well. Starting my meal prep journey was overwhelming but pushing through was absolutely worth it, given the amount of time it saves me every week. So if you’re still a beginner who is hesitant to start meal prepping, here are ways to go about it:
- Start Small: Don’t try to prepare 21 meals on your first prep day. Start with just work lunches or breakfasts—those meals that coincide with your work schedule.
- Pick a “Prep Day”: Dedicate a day from your day-off. I find Sunday the best option since it’s also when most weekend markets are open for fresh produce.
- Invest in Meal Prep Essentials: This will make your prepping way easier and fun. Trust me, if your containers leak or your knives are dull, you’ll quit within two weeks.
The Must-Have Meal Prep Tools
To turn your kitchen into a high-efficiency station, you need a toolkit that works as hard as you do. Here are 8 meal prep essentials every home chef needs:
- Eurochef Cutting Board & Knife. Meal prepping will require a lot of chopping from you. A sharp knife and a sturdy board are the foundation of all prep.
- Simplus Rice Cooker. Rice is a must for a Filipino meal and it’s a good source of carbohydrates too! That’s why you might want to invest in a durable rice cooker that you’ll just set and leave while you focus on other kitchen tasks.
- Dreepor Electric Cooker. Streamline your cooking with an all-in-one electric cooker that steams, fries, and boils. Since it’s portable and only requires a standard socket, you can prep healthy meals wherever you are.
- Silicone Freezer Trays. If you plan to cook in larger batches, it is best to freeze them in food-grade silicone trays. These allow you to easily pop your food out of the freezer, pack it in your lunch bag, and reheat it at the office.
- LocknLock Stainless Container. Bringing lunch at the office necessitates microwave-safe containers. You also want them spill-proof and durable for traveling.
- Famco Silicone Storage Bags. If you’re keeping a good amount of fruits and vegetables, you may store them in food-grade silicone storage bags to make them last longer. Pro tip: For a fast and easy salad, you may chop and store your veggies in advance then just transfer them together in a lunch box with your dressing of choice!
- Glass Jars. Overnight oats, protein shakes, and yoghurt are also some of the healthy options people usually pack for lunch. If you don’t have time to transfer food from here and there, you may opt for glass jars that keep your food sealed and fresh.
- Measuring Cups. For those following a strict diet, measuring cups are easy tools to appropriately portion your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does prepped food stay fresh?
Most fruits and vegetables stay fresh for 2–4 days in airtight containers as long as you keep them in the refrigerator. But if it’s a cooked meal, you may keep it for a week by storing it in the freezer.
Can I meal prep on a budget?
Definitely. In fact, meal prep reduces costs by allowing you to buy in bulk and preventing “emergency” takeout orders.
Do I need to buy glass containers right away?
While glass is more durable and microwave-safe, any airtight container will work to start. Focus on getting the meal prep tools that help you cook first!
Meal Prep Your Way to An Easier Life
Meal prep is supposed to make your life easier. By arming your kitchen with the right meal prep tools and a solid plan, you’re setting yourself up for a healthier, less stressful lifestyle.
If you’re committed to starting your meal prep journey, arm yourself with better knowledge by reading through our article about a guide to meal planning and high protein meals. Once you’re ready, I recommend you buy some of your ingredients from Shopee Mart for cheaper and hassle-free shopping.
