What are /r/mealprep's favorite Products & Services?

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While I agree with what you're trying to say, there's no need to be so antagonistic about it. If you actually care about starting a dialogue or helping to resolve the problem, you should maybe post links to reusable containers or resources that encourage reduction of plastic waste. Pointing fingers and being rude is a great way to ensure someone won't listen you.

Edit: Hi, OP, here's what I use: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y31WGWR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

They clean great and have lasted me nearly three years now. For someone who meal preps every week, this has replaced many hundreds of plastic bags. I would strongly recommend you invest in something like these!

I use these silicone stretch lids, just choose one that is slightly larger than your dish if you only want it for preventing microwave splatter.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DMGJGPN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_FSRRSVFY2ZVWK1MAR455?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

You're gonna need to get scientific up in this bitch. Get an oven thermometer and make sure your oven is as hot as you think it is.

Check your oven for hot/cold spots. Line a baking sheet with slices of bread in a single layer, and bake at 350-400 for about 10 minutes. The toast pattern will show you where your oven is hottest and coldest. You might just need to rotate your pizza partway through cooking.

Babysit the pizza for the last few minutes of cook time. If it's not done after the time on the box (say, 15 minutes), check on it every ~2-3 minutes until it's done.

Take notes - the difference between science and screwing around is writing it down. Eventually you'll dial in how long your particular oven needs to cook a frozen pizza to adequacy.

Yes! Veggies and dip. But consider this more environmentally-friendly option: get condiment cups like these, made of recyclable stainless steel and longer-lasting, more-inert silicone.

That looks delicious! Here are some reusable 2 oz containers that have been total game changers for my SO and I as far as the meal prep world. Also, if you are on a fun kick they make great reusable Jell-O shot containers. It might help ya save a few bucks in the long run.

Some tips/comments for anyone interested in doing something similar:

• Make sure you have enough freezer space. Our fridge freezer can only hold about 30 boxes (and that's if it's crammed full), so we had to buy a small standalone freezer to hold the rest.

• Pick meals that freeze & reheat well. I didn't do that the first time around, and had a couple of meals that were not so great. Pasta seems to freeze and reheat really well, for example. Cream or cheese based recipes...not so much. This time around I did some research online to get an idea of what works well - lots of people out there with tips and suggestions on freezer meals.

• Next time we do this, we plan to split it out over two days, just so that it doesn't turn into a whole day effort. Day one: brownies, one meal, and any cutting/prep we can do. Second day will be the rest of the meals, and plating.

• If you have a slowcooker, that's a good way to do one meal with minimal effort.

• We basically used every pot, pan, and cooking utensil in the house.

• The boxes we used are these ones. The lids are a bit of a pain to get on, but once on properly, they work fine.

• We use a dry erase marker to write down the meal name and the date.

• Cost: can't be exact, but this was roughly $150 at the store (with some non-prep groceries mixed in that total, so I'd estimate closer to $130 for just these meals). We're still filling in some blanks in our pantry, too, like sugar/flour, some spices, etc., so some of those are upfront costs that will apply to future recipes, rather than being a normal monthly cost. I'd estimate, though, that if this month and last month are typical, that it will cost roughly $100 - $130 a month to do 5 separate meals.

Been meal prepping my lunches again lately and was craving something comforting so I decided on BBQ chicken, corn and mashed potatoes. I weighed, prepped and divided everything up for 4 days.

The chicken was seasoned with Kinder's BBQ seasoning (see in photos). I air fried it at 375 for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken reached 160-165F degrees. Once I reheated it, I added 2 tablespoons/32 grams per label of Sweet Baby Ray's No Sugar Added BBQ sauce. Which was honestly the best low calorie BBQ sauce i've had. Beats the pants off of G Hughes in my opinion. No artificial aftertaste or anything. I added pics of the BBQ sauce and nutrition label.

The corn was weighed and separated into each container. Seasoned with salt and pepper and i placed 7 grams of I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Light on each serving.

Mashed potatoes were peeled, cut up and boiled for 20 minutes or until fork tender. I also boiled some garlic in with the potatoes. Once they were soft, I added I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Light, Daisy Light Sour cream, Fairlife skim milk, and salt and pepper. Mashed until smooth.

Containers are from Amazon.

Cheers, y'all.

I have two pyrex bowls with lids that I got at my local store. The smaller of them is probably 2-3 cups. They are a little spendy at the outset but they are sturdy, easy to clean, microwavable, and won't crack or stain like plastic.

Here's a set on Amazon: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Pyrex-Storage-Clear-Orange-Pieces/dp/B00O1FPRTO&ved=2ahUKEwihuvzS15jgAhVlHTQIHYj-CC4QFjAAegQIAxAB&usg=AOvVaw0d6OK4HPyrXRCwhZjO5s8l

> If I cook up a big batch of rice, chicken + veg on a Sunday night and pack it up into air tight containers then put it straight into the fridge will it all keep fine throughout the week and be good to heat up in a microwave? (would have to make 5 lunches, mon - fri)

Vegetable dishes generally keep for about two weeks in the fridge. Beef and pork will keep for about a week. Seafood is generally only good for about three days.

> Probably a really stupid question but if someone can let me know or give me sone [sic] pointers that would be great :)

Buy some meal prep containers. Basically just easy to wash lunch kits. I like the ones from Amazon that have separated areas in them. Wal-Mart, Target, HEB, etc. will generally also have those types of containers in stock.

Beginner

• Pick one or two proteins and three or four frozen vegetables.
• Cook the proteins with salt and pepper in a skillet.
  
• Frozen microwavable vegetables are cheap and easy. Microwave bag for recommended time, usually 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper.
• In each meal prep container add one serving of protein and two servings of vegetables.

Intermediate

• Instead of plain protein and vegetables, try some different recipes that you can find online.
• Protein dishes to try:
  • Chicken Cordon Bleu
  • Salisbury Steak
  • Meatloaf
  • Chicken Parmesan
  • Rosemary Pork Chops
• Vegetable Dishes to try:
  • Scalloped Potatoes
  • Mashed Garlic Potatoes
  • Broccoli salad
  • Roasted zucchini and Butternut squash
  • Potato Salad

More Intermediate

• Try some all in one dishes like chili, soup, lasagna, jambalaya, etc.
• Find some good cooking videos online and try something new each week.

BTW, call your mother and tell her thank you. Then ask her for some good recipes.

I bought three-compartment glass dishes on the Canadian Amazon store from a seller called Misc Home Inc. (I know that sounds like a category, but that’s really what they were called!). I don’t know what country you’re in, but here’s the link on the Canadian store:

[LIFETIME LIDS] LARGE Premium 3 Sets 3 Compartment Glass Meal Prep Containers 3 Compartment with Snap Locking Lids, BPA-Free, Microwave, Oven, Freezer, Dishwasher Safe (4.5 Cup, 34 Oz, Rectangle) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B076D5Q8LD?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

They are great from freezer to microwave.

⬇️ RECIPE BELOW ⬇️

Meal prep app

IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/meta-nutrition/id1556778258

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.metanutrition.metnu

—

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Cal - 283 Protein - 15 Fat - 12 Carbs - 30

—

Ingredients:

- Ground turkey

- Eggplant

- Brown rice

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 drizzle of sriracha

Directions:

Ground turkey: Pan fry with 0.5 tbsp olive oil

Rice: Cook however you like

Eggplant: Drizzle remaining tbsp of olive oil; put in oven at 385 F, cook for 20 min or until browned

Thanks. I actually ordered these (the 9x9 ones) on amazon for friends or family to be able to take "togo" boxes if we had a bbq or something. Then I realized I could cut them in half and use the top as a single compartment tray for things that fit well that way and use the 3 compartment side for things like today's dish. It works out to about 30 cents per tray.

Please do! I bought these and I love them! I put them in the dishwasher (top rack) and microwave and haven’t lost one yet! Its chili, soup, stew season!

Hmm, I suggest checking out the AHA cookbook. I have it and used it a bunch when I was looking for good heart healthy recipes that also listed nutrition info. And a lot of the things in here can be made in bulk and froze

I hope you find something!

Amazon also has some decent-priced containers:

[18 PACK VALUE] MiscHome 2 Compartment Meal Prep Containers | 32 Oz. Two Compartment Food Storage Containers with Lids | BPA Free Bento Boxes | Stackable Meal Prep Containers Two Compartment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BF3KBF9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0S6mDbGFY2WCW

And

Enther Meal Prep Containers [20 Pack] 36oz 3 Compartment with Lids, Food Storage Bento Box BPA Free/Reusable/Stackable Lunch Planning, Microwave/Freezer/Dishwasher Safe, Portion Control, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072B9F7W4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eU6mDbCB17HHZ

I fell for the Pinterest thing for a long time, and finally realized that cooking is way easier when you don't use recipes at all.

Meat+starch+veg is a classic for a reason. For proteins: pork loin, chicken breasts with a seasoning package, baked tilapia with butter, steaks, lamb chops. For starch: a loaf of bread, some quinoa, a small serving of pasta, rice, potatoes. For veg: roasted carrots/broccoli/brussel sprouts, frozen bags of mixed veggies, steamed green beans. None of these require recipes, so they cook up fast and easy.

I do get bored of this approach, but it's good for at least half our meals every week, with not-that-much thought. I still make a lasagna or stew when I feel like it, but no more than one fancy recipe a week. Saves me a lot of time, and keeps the grocery bill down.

u/KetchupKittens,

There are a number of moving parts here.

13 is plenty old enough to have the run of the kitchen. Given the presumed history of a foster kid, some instruction is in order. Your house, your rules. I suggest "closing the kitchen" is counter productive. As long as the 13F is eating family meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) eating more (without getting fat) is okay. My take on rules: everything gets cleaned after use, when people have gone to bed keep noise down, check meal plan for remainder of the week so you don't eat anything planned for a family meal. The easy way to solve the fast frozen food problem is not to buy that stuff.

I'd grab hold of the opportunity to teach 13F to cook healthy meals. Get her a resource. Include her in family meal planning, putting shopping list together, budgeting, prep, cooking, clean up. Laundry. This is part of adulting. Treat her like a young adult and she's more likely to act like one. Chores are part of being in a family. So is an allowance.

I see way too many parents who get all wound up about knives and heat. Stop getting wound up. Teach skills and safety protocols. Give her this to watch. Information is power. She isn't going to get life skills in most school systems so it's up to you.

You have a home - not a prison. Set down reasonable guidelines. If she doesn't follow them there are consequences. If she leaves the kitchen a mess then there are consequences. Be honest. "I don't understand why you want a hot meal at 11.30pm, but I don't want you going to bed hungry. Here is what I ask of you as part of this family. Don't make a mess, clean up after yourself, don't wake anyone up, and don't mess up our plans for family meals."

I was thinking maybe an insulated casseroles casserole carrier making sure the lunch is well wrapped in foil etc. but I saw this which is like the HotLogic someone else mentioned but this is battery powered https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Bento-Portable-Cordless-Recreation/dp/B08ZC8LL3H/ref=mp_s_a_1_13?adgrpid=69097349480&gclid=Cj0KCQiAsoycBhC6ARIsAPPbeLv5tSnAJd4XeHDhw9oVxip1ESGfJmLSCTH8ssgoDbXPNyL0hgFRy3QaAuMrEALw_wcB&hvadid=330821288869&hvde...

Ina similar vein, OP might want to check out snapware. Amazon link.

I have a variety pack from Costco at a really good price and have been enjoying them! They stack well I think.

I use these and very happy with them. I broke one of the small ones not long after I bought them and the company sent me a full replacement.

Here's a link! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08X46CJY7?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

Probably has more to do with my being new to meal prepping but so far I have found as I make recipes that the for the portions I'm making (in terms of calories per portion) I have so far pretty frequently run into the issue of these being on the small side. Other than that they're great and if you're a veteran prepper that's probably less of an issue.

My starter kit would be:

Liquid measuring cup - something like this These are for measuring a cup of liquid and also has milliliters on it.

Dry cup and spoons measuring set (like this) This lets you measure dry ingredients in cups, half cups, tablespoons, teaspoons.

This should get you set! If your recipes is in grams/ ounces/ pounds etc, yes, measure it out with your scale. You can put a bowl on it, tare it (makes your container’s weight go to zero so you can just measure the ingredients) and then you’re ready to weigh out your ingredients. Hope this is helpful! Good luck meal prepping.

Made it myself. I make the curry paste from scratch, which is a huge pain in the butt so you can just buy it from an Asian supermarket or the internet. Then it's just:

fry the curry paste in a little oil till aromatic. add coconut milk (or a combo of milk and stock). add some palm sugar or brown sugar. add whole curry leaves and/or kafir lime leaves (optional). cook to reduce slightly then thicken with arrowroot or corn starch. easy peasy

I use the 1-Cup Souper Cubes Tray to freeze four portions, and they fit in the wide mouth mason jars perfectly. Add a reusable lid like the Masontops Tough Tops, and you are good for a few days.

I had a similar problem except we don't have a usable kitchen sink at work, and I found these disposable pouches on Amazon. They come in a pack of 100 with 100 straws. They're not the most economically friendly solution but they work surprisingly well. They're like those caprice sun juice pouches (or bagged milk if you have those,) except more like a zip lock bag. It seals very well surprisingly, I can even shake it with it zipped shut.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071F16VQZ?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

I was in the same position as you, love those ready to go grocery meals.

I ended up getting a set of glass bento boxes, they’re oven/microwave/dishwasher safe. I do my meal prep and chuck them into the freezer, pull one out in the morning for defrosting and then into the oven for dinner.

https://www.amazon.com/Containers-Storage-Airtight-Microwave-Dishwasher/dp/B07R6551HF/

I just bottle it in the fridge. Never tried freezing it however might be good frozen in the summer.

The link below is to the bottles I use. They are NOT heat safe and I would recommend hand wash. I bought these because they are familiar to me since we use them at work. I would consider spending the money on glass bottles if you’re not prone to dropping things.

SUPERLELE 20pcs 16oz Empty... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V6W4W1T?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I use this one - the particular size is larger than I personally need but stays upright and the strap is nice to carry on my shoulder with my laptop bag.

Lifewit LunchBag

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KY612D4?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_V26VVCZ85MTSN7ZQ0NM4. I use this one daily. It has a separate upper compartment as well. Very roomy and insulates well. The container you have would sit flat on the bottom.

I do something like this for workdays. I use silicone egg rings (like this) and do a dozen at a time and put them in the freezer.

I microwave the egg and sausage patty (frozen) stacked together for 33 seconds, reverse positions and do another 33 seconds. Dab with a dry washcloth to remove the moisture and place on the bread/muffin/gluten-free-cheddar-biscuit.

Well if you want oven safe you are pretty much locked into either glass, ceramic, or metal but metal won't work for the microwave and ceramic-like this is often complained about for breaking easily. Glass is probably your best option.

Puppy Cake Birthday Cake Flavored Mix and Icing for Dogs with Sprinkles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095T1SK52/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8A85WH8FN9K7C6922RZY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

It was this. The owner had it and I was dogsitting. It's not stellar healthy ingredients, but it came with frosting to make and sprinkles so it was pretty cool.

I freeze a lot of single serve meals for me and my partner, like TV dinners. Prep like 6-10 servings of a meal that can ALL be reheated (so no fruit salads or anything like that) and I store them in plastic trays with multiple compartments that are both microwave and freezer safe. You can get them on Amazon, nearly all "meal prep" containers are fine but these are the ones I use. Nearly all will keep for at least a month, some longer.

I've found a lot of things to make by searching "homemade microwave dinners" and "DIY single serve freezer meals", so that's probably a good place to start. Good luck!

https://www.amazon.com/DuraHome-Containers-Leakproof-Container-Microwavable/dp/B075X416X8/ref=sr_1_5?crid=30B8F1UB99U7J&keywords=deli%2Bcontainers&qid=1650730401&sprefix=deli%2Bcontainer%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-5&th=1

Do these happen to be the ones you used? If not, which ones do you use?

Not sure which iPad you have, but I have this and it fits a ton of stuff including multiple large drinks. Lifewit Large Lunch Bag 24-Can... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GVBZ8K9?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I would try logging this on https://cronometer.com/ to see if you're meeting all of your micronutrient needs. Probably wouldn't be a bad idea to add a wider variety/quantity of vegetables.

Regarding the macros, your meal plan is pretty simple, so it should be easy for you to see where you can make changes to increase your protein and decrease your carbs. For example, for breakfast you could swap the oat milk for almond milk, and have less banana or swap it for a lower calorie fruit like berries. And you could add protein powder to boost the protein. And for your pre-workout shake, you could choose a protein powder that has fewer carbs. Just some examples. You might also want to focus on consuming less fat, because you are exceeding your fat goal by quite a lot actually. But you could easily solve that issue by choosing leaner cuts of meat.

How about this?

Lifewit Large Lunch Bag 24-Can (15L) Insulated Lunch Box Soft Cooler Cooling Tote for Adult Men Women, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07GVBZ8K9/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_7XNDTN7Y8KN94GCKAV2Q

Prep your lettuce and store it separately in an airtight bag or container. I got reusable [Dishwasher Safe Reusable Storage... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZLHW4M4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share](bags) from amazon that work great. Add your toppings right before eating.

I use https://cronometer.com! They label things as being verified vs. user entered, and the verified results show up on top, so it's much easier to get accurate results. And they have all the different varieties of raw chick (thigh vs. breast, skin-on vs. -off, etc).

https://www.amazon.com/Anova-Culinary-Precision-Cooker-Included/dp/B07QFC6LN6/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?crid=1RHODDT8ZUU0Z&keywords=sous+vide+cooker&qid=1637331113&qsid=142-2076713-9245606&sprefix=sous+%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-11&sres=B07C7...

I understand where they are coming from but nothing can touch this machine. First of all it's a wand that you just drop in the drawer but when I had one it never was not in use. You can't imagine how delicious things come out with this. I used to do brisket low and slow for 5 days, restaurant quality. A little pepper and a thin slice of lemon in a bag with a chicken breast is just incredible. Asparagus comes out perfect every single time... Personally I washed and reused the bags with the vacuum pump seal thingy you mentioned. I always made sure to keep the valve out of the water though, because I had one leak once... I had an instant pot and it sucked. It's just an electronic pressure pot. That's literally all it is. Also, with this wand you aren't limited to size. I originally got it for making cheese and I quickly scaled up to huge batches because your only limitation is the vat of water. You just hang the wand over the side and boom!

I could go on for hours. They are amazing.

buy a soft-sided cooler from your big box store I personally like the tote ones.

I'm going to recommend Evernote, especially since you it might help you in other areas .

I use it to keep track of all my recipes, grocery lists, and will even take pictures and attach nutritional info on some. It has a handy web clipper feature that I use to grab articles, recopies, and other types of instructable type articles for future reference too.

I also use it to keep track of my projects at work and home. They have apps for almost every platform, so your notes will be available anywhere you've installed the app or have web access. The tagging system is very handy too and makes it easy to organize.

Good luck meal prepping with your kids! I think it's a great idea and I've done it several times with one of my kids helping with mixed success / participation.

edit: I forgot to mention that there are fee and paid versions. The free version probably does everything you need it to do.

I keep several of these in my bug-out bags, and a few cases at the case. It's basically a brig of flavorless cereal, but it'll keep you going indefinitely.

https://www.amazon.com/Datrex-Emergency-Survival-Calorie-Ration/dp/B001CS7MBE

I have been cooking out of One Pan, Two Plates (vegetarian, but includes dairy and eggs. Meat could be added pretty easily, as my husband likes to do)

Most of the recipes use inexpensive vegetable/canned ingredients and pantry staples like eggs and rice. The recipes are big enough for me to get three or four 400-500 calorie servings. I'll cook one night and eat dinner, then have lunch and dinner the next day or lunch for the next few days. All the recipes come together in about half an hour so even if I have to cook it isn't a tortuous hours-long event. The back of the book lists the recipes seasonally, so you know which dishes will likely be cheapest to cook.

I do the ADHD thing where I buy a ton of healthy-ish groceries and then put them away and forget that I have them until they go bad. With this cookbook, I just buy what I need to make two or three meals and none of it goes to waste. Plus every recipe I've tried so far 100% slaps! I've made the potato frittata al'Indienne weekly for months now and I'll never get tired of it

I do a lot of meal prepped salads so here are my suggestions on how to keep the lettuce not so slimy:

• Never put salad dressing on the salad in advanced. Get some of those cute reusable salad dressing containers like these.
• Instead of putting the lettuce on the bottom of the salad, put the toppings on the bottom, especially the wet stuff. This reduces the juices from oozing out onto the lettuce overtime and ruining it. Dry Items like cheese and nuts can stay at the top so they aren't ruined with water as well.
• Always wash AND dry your cut lettuce with a lettuce spinner. Chopped lettuce lasts significantly longer and doesn't turn brown if you wash and dry it. I learned this in the restaurant industry.
• Some lettuces are just better to prep with. Romaine and spinach do the best with prepping. I found that spring greens like the ones in the picture are very touchy and I cant even get them to last long in the fridge, much less prepped in a container.

I noticed that you can but Pyrex replacement lids online but they are a little pricey and of course you know it’ll just be a matter of time before those give out as well. I haven’t tried these personally but they seem like they might get the job done! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GPP8FLV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AME4C1R6AKYB44858WG4

Ready to eat rice is sold in ready to eat packs.

How about a lunchbox cooker? Line it with a foil pan, add a can of stew/ chunky soup/ chili, rice & a can of veggies & plug into your vehicle. Hot & ready when you want to eat and no refrigerator required.

These cookers are also used to cook from raw to hot. Trucker use them and there are some really good (& simple) recipes online for meals for 1 made with minimal ingredients.

Gideon Heated Electric Lunch Box 12-Volt Portable Stove For Car, Truck, Camping, Etc. - Enjoy Hot Delicious Meals https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072QKTGM9/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_23WSE6E5XZBE31DTXK4Y

Can’t emphasize enough: Get a short thermos. You can make Mac and cheese, spaghetti, sliced grilled cheese, etc in the morning and put it in there. Should still be warm by lunch. The kids get sick of sandwiches and the norm; this is always a little different twist.

thermos for lunch box

I suggest you get one of those lunch bags you can stick in the freezer. I use one for work and it’s really nice to not have to worry about refrigeration.

I am happy with these

Container link

Once a Month Cooking is an old one, but pretty good.

It's designed for taking one weekend to make and freeze enough meals for a month. It has grocery lists and is organized with an "order of operation" system so you're told what to do when. Some of the meals include Baked Jambalaya, Chicken Lasagna, Chicken Taco Salad, Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork and Veal Scaloppini.

Instead of freezing the meals in one large dish you can freeze them in smaller portion sizes and have them available for lunch. It's nice to have the variety throughout the week.

Here's another favorite

Texas Pete is and will forever be my favorite hot sauce.

BUT.. my first trip to Charleston with my wife we ate at a small restaurant called Jestine's Kitchen (it has since closed permanently). Hands down the best fried chicken I've ever had. The real kicker was a local hot sauce .. Lillie's of Charleston "Low Country Loco". Holy shit it's divine. I grabbed a couple bottles when we returned recently for a wedding. Should've grabbed a few more dammit!

Bowl cozies on Amazon, or you could get handmade ones too in fun patterns. I have one at work for heating up my lunches! Just put the whole thing in the microwave with your bowl sitting on it!

They’re relatively cheap so I’m not sure how long they’ll last, but I’ve been using them for a few weeks and they are holding up well. I got them at bed bath and beyond but they are in a lot of grocery stores and I also found them on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YMJS6FG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9EDRMRBXJP5ZRPX7RQB0 (

Hi,

I made this app for my girlfriend that might be exactly what you are looking for.

Google Play Store link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yinqs.weeklymealplanner

Main advantages

• It remembers everything so easy autocomplete if you enter a meal a second time
• Plan for unlimited number of weeks
• Easy swapping and moving of meals
• configurable notifications for current and next day
• Shopping list, recipes and ingredients are all optional

They are awesome. Lightweight and durable. Would recommend!

This is what you need:

The Professional Chef, by the Culinary Institute of America

https://www.amazon.com/Professional-Chef-Culinary-Institute-America-dp-0470421355/dp/0470421355/ref=dp_ob_title_bk

​

This is the Culinary Institute of America's main textbook. It is all about technique. Everything from knife cuts, butchery, seafood cookery techniques, stocks, mother sauces, vegetables, garde manger, protein cooking techniques like searing, roasting, etc. This book is not really used in any of the classes there(each class has its own materials), it is more like a giant technique reference book. When you need to learn how to do something, it is in here. Simple with lots of pictures. You could even buy one of the earlier editions that are on Amazon and save a little.

You do not have to learn everything in this book. Just some will make things easier. And if you are ever reading a recipe and it says, "do this" and you do not know what this is, the book will tell you what it is and how to do it.

Actually it says "BPA free secure-fit plastic lids are freezer, microwave and top-rack dishwasher safe " .. I even looked at one I hadn't used yet because I was shocked at how the lid seemed to melt in the microwave. I have two of the red ones and two of the blue ones.

I bought these containers a couple weeks ago, and no problems yet! I have put soup into these and they seemed to be leakproof https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JK1LGHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_YG7JNVN5JF1HC99450V4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I bought myself and my spouse these lunch bags 2 years ago, because they like to pack a lot snacks like apples, crackers, pretzels, nuts and such in their lunch bag for work in addition to the food we prep...the glass containers fit into both compartments just fine: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FTF6KX2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_1MQ2D384WEDEJ5TN3DKM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

let me know if you have any other questions :)

Search Amazon or Google for glass meal prep containers or bento boxes and you will get several options. Here is one.

These would probably work well, though they are aluminum/plastic. I like them because you can also microwave them. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JH4GA7G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

No.. I don't like doing dishes and I feel maintaining our tupperware/trays is a big burden with meal prep. These are compostable nacho trays I got on amazon .. I'm testing them since they are microwave safe.

I chilled one of these in the freezer and re-heated it in the microwave for 3 minutes. It held up well. Fully frozen I think these trays will handle a 5-6 minute microwave heating no problem.

I bought a 10 dollar pineapple tool from Amazon. Now we eat lots of pineapples.

Zulay Kitchen Pineapple Corer and Slicer tool - Stainless Steel Pineapple Cutter for Easy Core Removal & Slicing - Super Fast Pineapple Slicer and Corer Tool Saves you Time (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0821RNY5D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_-aLZFb6NBGB49

I roast like 5-6 heads. Then use a butter knife to get as much goodness out of each pod as possible. Then you can plastic baggie, ice cube tray (then baggie) I actually use the tiny containers you sometimes get with delivery food. Similar to these: https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Condiment-Disposable-Restaurants-Supplies/dp/B015NL1SYW

Then when I need I just microwave a bit and voila! I mostly use w/ hummus and baguettes. So tasty.

To roast I do this: https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/roasted_garlic/

> I guess what I’m looking for are more minimalist options for approaching food prep.

Are you familiar with Soylent? It's similar to what they feed coma patients. 400 calories per serving, plus a full set of macro & micro-nutrients. Kind of like a protein shake, except it's a whole meal in a drink. They have a bottled version, which is shelf stable, and is available on Amazon, as well as places like Target, CVS, etc: (the 12-pack works out to just under three bucks a bottle, at current prices)

https://www.amazon.com/Soylent-Replacement-Shake-Bottles-Packaging/dp/B01NBIF6WS

If you want to cook, do you have access to boneless, skinless chicken thighs? You can use it in a variety of ways:

1. As a chicken breast
2. As a chicken cutlet, where you pound it down flat (plain or breaded & fried)
3. As chicken strips
4. As shredded chicken

You can dress it up in a variety of ways:

1. With a spice rub
2. With sauces
3. With cheese melted on top (ex. broiler function in the oven)
4. Breaded & fried (pan-fried in a skillet or deep-fried in a pot)

When I was new to bodybuilding, I didn't understand macros at the time & didn't really know how to cook, so I pretty much lived off oatmeal, eggs, brown rice, chicken, and broccoli. It wasn't a super fun way to eat, but I felt great all the time & it was pretty dang cheap, haha! Plus I learned how to doll up the food using spices, sauces, and so on, in order to create variety.

How are you cooking skills right now?

I use a combo of these from Amazon, 20 containers for $15.

https://www.amazon.com/Freshware-Containers-Compartment-Stackable-Dishwasher/dp/B073TRZ91C/

https://www.amazon.com/Enther-Containers-Compartment-Stackable-Dishwasher/dp/B0742M47V5/

Pyrex 4-cup storage containers are my go-to choice for meal prep! Amazon has them for sale in four packs here

​

You can see the in action with one of my usual recipes here: Easy Meal Prep Ground Turkey Veggie Bowls

You can get containers that screw on. I think ziplock has some?

Like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077FXNWGC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_jZvlDbCWE6R0C

I second the glass containers though as well, just don't get the snapware lids. Pyrex has some on Amazon that are an entirely rubber like lid that are glass. I know a few people with them and they are pretty quite.

Like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0157G34AY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lYvlDbQR0985G

I buy these from amazon for my prepped meals. Or these for salads. I carry them in a nice cooler if I’m taking a lot with me. If just one or two, I take them in a insulated lunch box. Hope this helps.

Thank you for the replies, guys! I bought this set on Amazon for 44$. 10 glass containers with lids. Dunno if links are allowed but if they are I'll leave it below just in case someone else is interested.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078WYBWZ3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_RURpDbT9AM1AC

Thank you for watching!! It really is such a cool brownie pan, definitely a must have as it makes the whole process so much easier and less messy.

Here is the link to one on amazon very similar (if not identical) to mine:

Kingrol Nonstick Brownie Pan, Baking Pan with Built-In Slicer & Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RJWNSR1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wRkxDbKDKQVY5

There are a ton of similar pans for all different affordable prices:)

I use the Oxo brand ones and amazon sells at least some of the sizes individually.

https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-Smart-Rectangle-Container/dp/B019F079F4/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=oxo+glass+food+storage+containers&qid=1569192056&sprefix=oxo+gl&sr=8-4

Don't know if these may help, but I've heard of a few people using these containers. If you're looking for a cheaper option, I also found these on Amazon as well (it's fewer containers, but if you're on a budget it could help!)

>borosilicate glass

Yes they are. Here is the link from amazon

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PQ5WVGX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Enther Meal Prep Containers Single Lids, Food Storage Bento BPA Free | Stackable | Reusable Lunch Boxes, Microwave/Dishwasher, Freezer Safe,Portion Control (28 oz), 20 Pack 1 Compartment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0742M47V5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZDAJFbK4TGJJA

Here’s a link to some on Amazon for $16 that are similarly shaped, I think I see them a lot on this sub.

Disclaimer: I'm mostly here for the food porn, I don't really prep lunches or whatnot these days

When planning my dinners for the week I use "Food Planner" by MiniMobile from the Google Play store. I ignore most of the features and don't pay for premium.

What I DO use it for is listing out what dinner will be on what day under the calendar feature. I use the weekly mode for actual planning, but there is a monthly view that shows which days are planned and which days are unplanned.

You have to have a "recipe" for everything on your calendar, but the only requirement on the recipe card is the name. You CAN go into the recipe and write out all the cooking instructions, times, and nutritional info. Even add a photo. The only thing I do on the recipe card is look at the calendar where it shows all the dates I had this item and how often I have this item.

On the weekly view there is even an option to save the week so that later you can paste a pre-planned week onto another week!

There is an "inventory" section where you can track what you have on hand and a "groceries" section that I believe is supposed to generate a grocery list based on the ingredients in the recipes you have planned for that week. All I know about these sections are their names since I don't use the full functionality.

Hope this helps. Best of luck!

Do you just want your name? These are juvenile, but work really well. I use them for my son in daycare. They last through the dishwasher and microwave. Work on glass or plastic. They can fit a name on them. You write with a sharpie and seal it (one time thing, not rewritable).

Baby Bottle Labels for Daycare, Self-Laminating, Waterproof Write-On Name Labels, Assorted Sizes & Colors, Pack of 64 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5L1VHW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_v9ZHFb0WVDMP8

My wife and I use these and like them:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q498XSZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

EZ Prepa [20 Pack] 32oz 3 Compartment Meal Prep Containers with Lids - Bento Box - Durable BPA Free Plastic Reusable Food Storage Containers - Stackable, Reusable, Microwaveable & Dishwasher Safe https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MYGAHR8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8-YFFbBB63980 these I believe are either the same or similar. I bought them over a year ago.

Looks solid! I see you know how to properly boil eggs lol. The ice bath is key! I suggest buying rotisserie chicken. A whole chicken is pretty cheap, and most grocery stores sell them in the deli section cooked, for about $5. You could also buy chicken breast, marinate for a couple hours, then bake on a sheet pan for 20 minutes at 450. I usually wait until it goes on sale, then buy a bunch and freeze some. I also suggest nice glass containers something like this. I know you are a college student, but it makes eating prepped food feel a lot nicer for some reason, and can help you stick with it. I find it more enjoyable when I have a nice container

I found mine on Amazon

Reusable Food Storage Bags, 8 Packs Extra Thick BPA-FREE PEVA Sandwich Bag, Airtight Leakproof Freezer Safe Bags for Lunch, Meal Prep, Snack, Liquid, Fruit - 2 Gallon 3 Sandwich 3 Snack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZZ6S1C1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H-L7EbG0M61H2

Hey there! You can use extra water to help avoid the rice sticking to the bottom of the rice cooker. I use long grain brown rice, and I use an extra 50% of the water it calls for. For instance, I would cook a cup of brown rice with 3 cups water instead of 2 cups water. Furthermore, broth instead of water or in a half and half ratio would add some flavor to your rice. I like veggie broth, but you could use chicken or beef if you want. Lastly, food prep containers can be bought on Amazon, and here are some compact ones with a surprisingly large capacity that we use around the house: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0742M47V5?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Hope this helps!

The amount of variety in this is awesome. That’s one of the major things I struggle with because by the end of the week I’m tired of eating the same thing.

Also, I got these baking cups off of amazon that have been a game changer for separating things if needed.

Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Containers 3 Compartment 5 Pack - Bento Box Containers Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids - Food Prep Containers Glass Storage Containers with Lids Lunch Containers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0777JD5DD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ShZlEbGFMTHXX

I bought them on Amazon

I used the ‘Slap Ya Mama’ seasoning. Little goes a long way with this stuff. Here’s the link on amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/SLAP-YA-MAMA-Seasoning-Louisiana/dp/B005F5F0XW/ref=asc_df_B005F5F0XW/?tag=&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312150449676&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16173013375752820075&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&am...

Good suggestions here, but I might add to try and not overthink it when starting out. The first thing is getting into the practice of meal prepping. Get into the routine of batching your meals for the week first, then start fine tuning it. You'll find what works for you. I've found portion control works best for me more than anything. I use something like this.

hey! I know its been awhile but I've finally got a first running version of the android app out, you can check it out here https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.recipegrab

Thank you!

These are GoodCook + Meal Prep On Fleek 2 compartment containers. The big side is 2 cups and the small side is 1 cup. They don't appear to be leak proof, but I don't need them to be. They stack nicely and are intended for freezing and microwaving. I'm not afraid of plastic, though.

I got them at Fry's (Kroger) for $4.99 for a 10 pack. They were $3.99 last time I was there, so they might be on their way out

Edit: Amazon link for the product

I’ve found that the glass Rubbermaid containers like these are quiet.

Pyrex Simply Store Glass Rectangular and Round Food Container Set (18-Piece, BPA-free) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0157G34AY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8bPkDbRGTDN7D

Yeah! I like the texture of both, the pearled is just larger and therefore a bit more toothsome. It's Near East brand in the photo, they're about $1.25 US per box.

Near East Basil and Herb Pearled Couscous Mix https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0048IC756/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IzOmDb141AP0E

Big fan of these; definitely go with glass

https://www.amazon.com/Containers-Compartment-BPA-Free-Microwave-Dishwasher/dp/B07GXF1NN5/ref=sr_1_38?crid=3E8RFUL49ZHJH&keywords=meal+prep+containers&qid=1557373930&s=gateway&sprefix=meal+pre%2Caps%2C188&sr=8-38

I avoid dividers and prefer glass for bpa reasons. These are well worth the price and the value is there. Had for an incredibly long time no problems

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GHJFRRB/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=ketostriz-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07GHJFRRB&linkId=ab2440f93bc9d40fa452fcbe680bb64f

Go with glass, they are more durable and reheat food better:

https://www.amazon.com/Containers-Compartment-BPA-Free-Microwave-Dishwasher/dp/B07GXF1NN5/ref=sr_1_38?crid=3E8RFUL49ZHJH&keywords=meal+prep+containers&qid=1557373930&s=gateway&sprefix=meal+pre%2Caps%2C188&sr=8-38

What's your budget? I bought this for 26$ for 5 containers and it works out pretty well. A bit on the smaller size but that's just portion control for me.

edit: forgot to add the link https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075BP5JN3/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Gotta get it how ya live it. Also, the cups in the middle for the “sour cream” aka plain Greek yogurt and sauce are 2 oz deli cups. They fit just as well in the containers and are great for storing dressing if you wanted to put a salad or something of the sort in a container. They work pretty well for Jell-O shots too lol. I either hand wash them or throw them in the dishwasher.

I use these, I’m pretty sure they were just the cheapest ones on amazon I could find at the time I bought them but no complaints! They work just fine for what I need.

https://smile.amazon.com/Utopia-Kitchen-Glass-Storage-Container/dp/B01N4K8HQ1/

I use a variant of these (the medium rectangular one) on a daily basis. Picked them up at Blood Bath a couple years ago and they've withstood regular use very well - the seals still fit tight and the plastic lids have not deformed or discolored.

I use Souper Cube trays with lids because each cube = 1 cup so it’s easy to reheat an individual portion. You can get them at Sur La Table or amazon (Souper Cubes Extra-Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray with Lid - 2 pack - makes 8 perfect 1cup portions - freeze soup broth or sauce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GSSR5V2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6ul5BbQRPKBWG)

Good resource from Food Safety regarding storage times fridge/freezer: https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/storagetimes.html