How to pack idli and sambar together for school lunches?

Question

How do you pack idli and sambar together for school lunches? Learn the best container strategy to keep them separate and fresh.

Answer 1

Pack idlis and sambar separately in airtight containers to prevent the idlis from becoming soggy. Consider using a thermos for the sambar to keep it warm until lunchtime.

Detailed Explanation:

Packing idli and sambar together requires careful consideration to maintain the texture and flavor of both items. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Cool Down: Allow the idlis and sambar to cool down completely before packing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess and bacterial growth.

2. Separate Containers: Use two separate, airtight containers. One for the idlis and another for the sambar. This is crucial to prevent the idlis from absorbing the sambar and becoming mushy.

3. Sambar Thermos (Optional): If you want to keep the sambar warm, use a pre-heated thermos. Fill the thermos with boiling water, let it sit for a few minutes, then empty it before adding the hot sambar. This helps maintain the sambar's temperature for a longer period.

4. Idli Packing: Place the idlis in a single layer in their container. Avoid overcrowding to prevent them from sticking together.

5. Secure the Containers: Ensure both containers are properly sealed to prevent leaks during transport.

6. Lunch Bag Placement: Pack the containers in an insulated lunch bag with an ice pack to keep the food at a safe temperature, especially if the lunch will be unrefrigerated for several hours.

Pro Tip:

Consider packing a small container of dry chutney powder (like coconut or peanut chutney) as an alternative to sambar. This eliminates the risk of sogginess and provides a different flavor profile.