The 'Lego Lunch' trend has taken the meal prep world by storm, and I was curious to see if it would be a game-changer for my lunch routine. As a professional cook, I approached this with an open mind, eager to explore a new way of organizing my meals. And let me tell you, it was an interesting experience! The concept is simple: freeze meal components in rectangular trays, creating 'Lego blocks' of food, which can then be easily mixed and matched for weekly lunches. The appeal lies in the visual appeal of these colorful blocks, reminiscent of the iconic Lego toys. I decided to give it a go, using Souper Cubes trays, and here's my unfiltered review.
The Experience
I opted for a Mediterranean-inspired meal, preparing a white-bean and tomato stew, blanched kale, and quinoa. Freezing these in individual portions was surprisingly effective. I was amazed at how well blanched kale and cooked vegetables froze, and even quinoa turned out to be a success. A crucial tip I learned was to pack the food tightly, almost like packing brown sugar, to ensure it freezes into solid blocks. This attention to detail made a significant difference in the final product.
The Verdict
The convenience of having pre-portioned, mix-and-match lunch options is undeniable. It's a huge plus to have a variety of meals ready to go in the freezer. However, I found the freezing into perfect rectangles unnecessary for the concept's success. While it was aesthetically pleasing, I realized that the core idea of portioned meals could have been achieved without the Lego-like presentation. The real value lies in the convenience and variety it offers.
In conclusion, 'Lego Lunch' is a fun and creative approach to meal prep, especially for those who enjoy a visually appealing lunch. It's a great option for those motivated by aesthetics, but it's not a must-have for everyone. I appreciate the trend's creativity, and it might just inspire some to experiment with meal prep, but it's not a deal-breaker if the presentation isn't quite 'Lego' perfect. So, if you're considering giving it a try, go for it! But remember, the real satisfaction comes from the taste and convenience, not just the look.
