Whether you're an avid foodie or a weekend kitchen warrior, meal kits can be very appealing. And that's no surprise – in today's busy world, it's undeniably convenient to circumvent researching for recipes, shopping for groceries, measuring, cutting and preparing for each and every single meal. With a meal kit, you can typically prepare a meal from start to finish in about half an hour, without any of the hassles of traditional cooking.
At the other end of the spectrum you have restaurants. They are easy, fast, and most will deliver right to your door. How convenient! Now it may look like restaurant delivery is the better choice, but you might want to take a second look. Restaurants aren't all they are cracked up to be and meal prep kits are a much better choice.
Here's why.
1. Better food transparency
Food transparency has become an increasing concern in recent years as some restaurants have been called into question for some ingredients that they use. Sky high sodium, calories, carbs, and fat are getting the spotlight and that thick, juicy burger suddenly isn't as appealing. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) has found its way into many foods and avoiding it when eating out is becoming more and more difficult.
Meal prep kits provide detailed nutritional information for each dish, but more than that, you handle each ingredient yourself, so you know exactly what you are putting into your body. Most start with fresh ingredients and measured spices such as salt. Being able to prepare your own food makes for a more mindful eating experience which is healthier both physically and mentally.
2. More control with customizable options
One of the biggest barriers to people trying meal prep kits is the food itself. Perhaps you have a particular taste and like your seasoning in a certain way; perhaps you want the convenience of customizing the flavors of your meal to your liking. Perhaps you have a food allergy or are eating keto this month? No worries! When you use a meal prep kit, you can have complete control of everything that goes into your dish. Most pre-measured kits come with separated ingredients, and you can add and remove ingredients to your liking. In addition, services have gluten free options and plans for different dietary choices, such as keto, paleo, vegetarian and more.
Some services allow you to make substitutions when you place your order. Others do not, but you can still make your own substitutions. Then you can make the dish truly yours.
3. A better value for both time and money
Our two greatest commodities are time and money – and most of us don't seem to every have enough of either. Meal prep kits are economical, and they don't take up a great deal of your time. There's no planning, no pouring over recipe books looking for something to cook. You don't have to go plan the meal, make a list, or go shopping. The kit is delivered directly to you and everything you need is right there for you to prepare.
Going to a restaurant is fun. The cost (both to your wallet and to your health) of repeatedly eating out is not. Delivery is not much better. Delivery charges can be quite high in proportion to the cost of your meal. Overall, Meal prep kits are much more economical, coming in at around $5 - $9 per meal while restaurant deliveries are typically more than $20 and when you add tip, delivery fee, and service fee, it's out of control. A meal prep kit is a much more economical choice – and a lot more fun.
4. Hands-on instruction helps improve cooking skills
If you're a seasoned cook you will thoroughly enjoy a meal prep kit, but even if you aren't so handy in the kitchen you can still have a good time. No matter your level of skill or cooking abilities, you can still find value in using a meal kit. It's a great way to sharpen your chef skills with a minimal investment and a foolproof plan.
No matter which company you choose to go with, all the kits work pretty much the same. When your kit is delivered you will find recipe cards with instructions for each meal or dish. Your kit also has everything that you need to prepare each dish - the meat, vegetables, spices, it's all there, perfectly measured in the exact quantities that you need. When you are ready to cook, simply follow the instructions and you're on your way. And best of all, you've just learned a new recipe!
5. Interactive fun for the entire family
Most meal prep kits allow for an option of ordering kits for two people or four people, and some even more. This means that couples and entire families can enjoy them. And of course, everyone knows that cooking is more fun when you share it with someone. Even the youngest chefs can get in on the fun.
You can get input from each family member as you choose your meals each week and open them together when they arrive on your doorstep. Younger family members are introduced to the joy of cooking and everyone can take part in the experience.
Meal kits provide interactive fun that the whole family can enjoy. Couples can bond over a shared culinary experience as they chop, roast, and sear together. Cooking is a mindful experience, something to be savored, not rushed through. It is deliberate, an experience that excited and engages you mind, body, and spirit.
There is something about cooking a great dish that brings people together. When you share a meal, preparing and sharing together, something magical happens. Meal prep kits bring the magic that restaurant delivery simply cannot. What's for dinner at your house tonight?
