Lunchbox – recipes
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 Tbsp coconut or olive oil
4 medium carrots (preferably assorted colors), diced
2 medium shallots, thinly sliced
handful edamame (non GMO)
1 bok choy – chopped
4 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced
Sea salt, pinch
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger
2 Tbsp organic soy or organic Tamari sauce (non GMO, no MSG)
2 tsp toasted sesame oil or avocado oil
1/2 tsp chili sauce (optional)
2 eggs, beaten
Directions
In a medium lidded saucepan, combine the quinoa and water, and bring it to a boil. Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is al dente. If you want faster results, you can use a rice cooker to cook the quinoa.
While the quinoa is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or nonstick skillet. Sauté the carrots, shallot, and white scallions over high heat until they are soft and starting to brown, which should take about 6 minutes. Season with salt, then stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and green scallions for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Fold in the cooked quinoa and stir-fry it until it is well-coated in the vegetable mixture and beginning to toast, which should take around 3 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili sauce.
Next, scramble the eggs and pour them over the fried quinoa, gently stirring them in over low or no heat.
Transfer the dish to a lunch box. You may choose to sprinkle it with parsley, cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds / cashews for added flavor and texture.
Benefits
Besides the amazing benefits of bringing their own lunch to school, such as avoiding processed foods, MSG, sugars, etc., and being fully aware of all the ingredients in your child’s lunch, this meal has everything your child needs for the school day: protein, vegetables, and more! Just stick a fork into it and bon appétit!”
Quinoa is a protein-rich grain, containing all the essential amino acids our bodies need, making it a valuable source of nutrients. Additionally, it is rich in fiber, minerals, and antioxidants, while having a low glycemic index, which means it won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Being naturally gluten-free, this lunch option can improve your kid’s stamina, concentration, and prevent post-meal sleepiness.