One task that is common in every woman's life throughout the world is that of Packing a lunchbox. You could pack a lunch box for your spouse, children for their offices and school; or when we are out for travel. I personally prefer carrying a home cooked food when we travel out, be it a short distance or a long distance travel primarily because it's healthy. Eating out in a railway pantry or highway dhabas is a strict no for me. I remember, when I was a child we were living in Baroda and we would make a 16 hour travel to Hyderabad to visit our grandparents. My mother would cook and bring 5 to 6 boxes for the travel along with the Milton Kool kettle for water. The only thing we would buy was different varieties of chikkis at the Lonavla railway station. These are some cherished memories from childhood which can never be forgotten. Though our travels are not as long as 16 hours, but a packed food from home is definitely a part of our travel.
Packing a lunch box for the husband and the child is definitely a challenging task for every woman as there will be regular conflicts on choices between the father and children. However, we can strike a chord between their choices and provide a tasty, balanced and nutritive combination for them to be carried to school or work. While packing a lunch box it is essential to consider the visual appeal of the food along with taste and nutrition. We need to mix and match colors so that when the box is opened, an attractive looking meal is visible to them. Another trick is to a box that can be easily eaten, especially when the box is meant for children .Chapatti or dosa with a side dish would be boring and difficult for a child, especially if the child is a slow eater or wants to utilize the lunch time to play with his friends. In such cases, a chapatti roll with veggies is a great option and also enables the child to finish in a jiffy. These rolls will also be preferred by adults who have a working lunch since it is easy and non messy to eat. One pot rice dishes are another great option for lunch boxes. It can be easily cooked in the busy mornings and is packed with nutrition from vegetables and rice. It is also an easy way to sneak in vegetables for fussy eaters. It can be made visually appealing and also can be eaten quickly.
I have listed some of the recipes which I regularly make for my family either for school or for travel. I am sure these may fascinate you too and will be loved your family as well. Cheers!!
Rice Dishes For Travel
Tiffin Varieties For Travel (Parathas, Sandwiches, Pasta, etc.)
Condiments For Travel (Pickles, Thokku etc.)