Isothermal containers, better known as Thermoses, allow kids to enjoy warm lunches at school. If you’re unsure of what to pack in yours, here are some ideas.
1. Stew. This iconic comfort food is versatile and hearty, making it an ideal choice for your kids’ lunches. There are many types, from beef stew to vegetarian chili, so there’s sure to be one that pleases your family.
2. Soup. This lunch can be made ahead of time, reheated and then packed in a Thermos. Making soup is a great way to use vegetables that aren’t as fresh as they could be. Note that thick, creamy soups tend to stay warmer than thinner ones.
3. Shepherd’s pie. This classic dish can be prepared in a variety of ways. Whatever recipe you follow, shepherd’s pie is a healthy and hearty meal that’s ideal for packing in a Thermos.
4. Pasta. There are many types of pasta dishes from spaghetti and macaroni to tortellini and lasagna. Best of all, it’s a lunch that’s quick and easy to prepare — simply cook it and combine with your choice of sauce or pesto. To make it easier and less messy to eat, cut long pasta into smaller pieces before putting it in a Thermos.
5. Pulled pork. Accompanied with veggies, rice or potatoes, this dish is sure to make a few of your children’s friends jealous.
Before filling the Thermos, make sure to warm it up with boiling water. Also, when you pack the food it should be as hot as possible. Otherwise, it may no longer be safe to eat come lunchtime.
