Introduction:
Planning your meals isn’t just about convenience—it’s about reducing food waste, eating healthier, and avoiding last-minute cooking stress. Here’s how to plan and prep like a kitchen pro.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Plan Your Weekly Menu
- Choose 5 core dishes for the week (mix veg, non-veg, rice, dal).
- Include easy-to-reheat items like pulao or paratha dough.
Step 2: Grocery List by Category
- Vegetables, pantry staples, dairy, spices.
- Stick to it and buy in exact quantities to avoid spoilage.
Step 3: Prep Ingredients
- Wash and chop veggies.
- Soak lentils and beans overnight.
- Make basic masalas (onion-tomato paste, ginger-garlic paste).
Smart Prep Ideas
| Prep Item | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Boiled potatoes | Quick aloo masala, tikkis, sandwiches |
| Cooked rice | Pulao, fried rice, lemon rice |
| Paneer cubes | Marinate for tikka, bhurji, or curry |
| Roti dough | Store 3–4 days for quick meals |
Bonus Tip:
Theme your meals—like “Dal Monday” or “Tawa Tuesday”—to simplify decision fatigue.
Final Thoughts:
Meal prep doesn’t mean eating boring food—it means eating smarter and fresher every day.