Top Tips for Using Insulated Food Jars
There isn’t much that can warm you up on a cold day quite like a hot meal, and you can have a warm meal all packed and ready to go with you with your insulated food jar. Work, school, or even your picnic can be a warmer place with the use of these handy jars that keep your food hot for as long as five hours. Every bite will still be just as warm as when you packed it.
From the spicy vegetable curry to the thick soup, the choices are nearly endless. But there are just one or two things to get right in order that you can get the best out of your insulated food jar. Here are some tips to ensure that you get the most out of these amazing jars, so that your food can be kept warm, fresh, and delicious.
Selecting the Right Insulated Food Jar
Size and Material Considerations
I always ensure that I am checking the material and the size when I am selecting an insulated food jar. The smaller jars, which are generally 300-500ml, are perfect for snack time or for a small meal.
The larger, 600-1000ml, are good for soups and stews. I will always opt for stainless steel because this selection is tough, rust-resistant, and is very good for insulation. Plastic jars are lighter, but they do not insulate as well. Glass jars are just as good, but heavier and are breakable, so they tend to be less preferred for use on the go.
Features to Look Out For
There are many other aspects that make an insulated food jar efficient and convenient. When buying, I always make a point of looking out for double-wall vacuum insulation that gives hours of temperature lock.
A wide-mouth construction makes it easy to fill in and eat and further easier to clean. Leak-resistant lids are, of course, an absolute must if the jar is to be used for any liquid dish, to prevent it from spilling. Some jars come with a little more than carrying food, like attached utensils or other separate compartment aspects to keep some food items apart. A jar with an exterior that is easy to grip makes for a better choice as it assists in avoiding slips when you are on the move.
Here are some top options that are great for kids:
For adults, you might want to check out this one:
Insulated jars can also pair nicely with bento boxes. You can combine the functions of both for some great lunch ideas.
Get Your Insulated Food Jar Ready
Pre-Warming or Pre-Cooling Techniques
Preheating an insulated food jar will help it perform optimally at keeping your food warm. Begin by filling the jar with boiling water. Let it stand for about ten minutes, and then pour it out and immediately pack your hot food. This conditions the jar to keep hot temperatures longer.
Pre-cooling is also best for cold items. Fill the jar with cold water and let it remain for about ten minutes. Pour off the cold water and add the cold food right away. This step maximises the jar’s tendency to retain the temperature of the contents.
What to Put in Your Insulated Food Jar
Ideas for Hot Foods
Choose meals that are able to last quality after being reheated. The following are some of the options which will guarantee you of having a delicious meal today and tomorrow:
- Pasta: Pasta is an extremely versatile and filling choice to layer in the jar, especially if you’ve cooked and heated it.
- Noodles: Store noodles in a delicious broth, good for cold days.
- Leftovers Stir Fry: A quick and healthy option which can also be quickly reheated.
- Soup: Ideal for easy packing; choose soups that come filled with proteins and vegetables.
- Risotto: Creamy product when kept in warm holding.
- Chicken Nuggets: An old favourite among children which remains nice and crispy in the bottle.
- Fried Rice: Tasty one pot meal that can be easily made and packed.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A dish that is as comfortable as you can get without sacrificing the yummy gooeyness.
Ideas for Cold Foods
Choose the meals that can retain freshness and attraction for a longer time. The cold options below are a refresher and provide a healthy alternative:
- Yoghurt: Granola with fruits mixed in provides a power snack.
- Fruit Salad: A very refreshing and healthy possibility that is still crispy and sweet to eat.
- Overnight Oats: Easy to make the night before and a filling.
- Bircher Muesli: Tasty and high-protein breakfast with best suitability for the busy morning.
- Pasta Salad: It is loaded with vegetables and a light dressing makes it tastier. - Smoothie Bowl: An adequate sprinkling of nuts and seeds over the top will provide you with an extra nutrient kick.
- Custard: A dessert alternative that is cold, creamy-stuffed.
- Salad: Fresh vegetables with a side of dressing retain their crunchiness and tastiness.
Through proper food selection and implementation of right cooking methods, your insulated food jar can be a one-stop shop for a range of meal options that are apt to your diet needs and preferences.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Insulated Food Jar
To best maintain your insulated food jar, it should be washed after every use.
- Fill the jar with warm water and add a small amount of washing detergent. Soak the jar for three to five minutes to assist in loosening any food particles.
- Lightly scrub the inside of the jar on all surfaces with a bottle scrubber wrapped in a dishcloth, get in the hard-to-reach pockets in particular.
- Thoroughly rinse the jar with warm water and towel dry to eliminate any excess moisture.
Do not submerge your entire jar in water to avoid damage to the insulation.
Eliminating Stains and Odours
Stubborn odours and smells can be a little pesky, but there is a way to combat them properly.
- Combine baking soda and dish soap, and work the mixture into a microfiber cloth.
- Gently clean the areas that have been marred with stains, working in the direction of the grain of the metal if possible.
- Rinse with warm water, and then pat with a towel to dry it. For more problematic stains or smells, place the jar in some soapy water and let it soak for a couple of hours and then scrub and rinse.
This will enable any residual scents to be absorbed and ensure that the cleanliness of the jar is complete. Proper maintenance of your insulated food jar will not only ensure its durability, but it will also continue to keep your food fresh and delicious.
Conclusion
Accessories for meals such as an insulated food jar can transform the way that you eat when on the go. With the right preparation methods and food options at your disposal, you can get the most out of your insulated food jar and make all of your meals every bit as enjoyable and satisfying as you desire.
Caring for the food jar the right way with proper cleaning methods will ensure that you can enjoy the use of it for years to come. Apply these lifestyle tips to get the most out of your insulated food jar and enjoy a convenient and satisfying dining experience on the go no matter where you are.