As seen in the Tried & True Winter 2024 issue
Out in the field, on a construction site or traveling between jobs, there’s nothing quite like a warm meal to fuel your day. Sometimes cold sandwiches or paying for fast food just doesn’t cut it. Remember the thermos of hot food mom used to send you to school with? A thermos can be a game-changer if you’re looking for hot lunches no matter where you are, especially during those long days out in a cold, windy field.
Prepping the Perfect Warm Lunch:
- Before packing your meal, preheat your thermos by filling it with boiling water, sealing it and letting it sit for a few minutes.
- After emptying the water, add your hot food and close it up quick for maximum heat retention.
- When choosing what to pack, go for foods with a consistent texture, such as soups, chilis, pasta or curries, which maintain their warmth and flavor effectively.
- For a little extra, accompany your meal with a small pack of condiments, utensils and maybe some bread or crackers to round out your meal.
Next time you’re gearing up for a cold day on the job, pack that thermos with your favorite warm dish. A piping hot meal is not just comforting, it’s a boost of energy and morale, reminding us of home and warmth even on the coldest of days.
7 Lunch Ideas for Your Thermos
- Tomato Soup
- Pulled Pork Mac n’ Cheese
- Mushroom Risotto
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- White Chicken Chili
- Chili & Mac
- Coconut Chicken Curry
Quick Creamy Tomato Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Serves: 3-4
- 2, 15 oz. containers, chicken or vegetable stock/broth
- 1, 28 oz. can concentrated crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper
- 20 leaves fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Soup Toppers (optional): Fresh garlic, Extra-virgin olive oil, Shredded cheese
Mix broth and tomatoes in a medium saucepan on medium heat. Once the soup starts bubbling, add heavy cream and lower the heat. Season with a dash of salt and pepper, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup. While still hot, pour into thermos, and enjoy when ready!
