The Best Way to Meal Prep Hard-Boiled Eggs
If you’re looking for a packable snack that’s actually going to keep you full throughout the morning or afternoon, can be made in advance, and travels well, one of the best options is a hard-boiled egg. If you’re not already doing it, add a batch of hard-boiled eggs to your meal prep routine. When stored properly, they can easily last for the whole week ahead. Here’s how to do it.
Keep It in Its Natural Carrying Case
You may have never considered an eggshell to be a carrying case, but that’s actually what it is. For maximum freshness and flavor, your best bet is to keep hard-boiled eggs in their shell and stored in the refrigerator after cooking up a batch during meal prep.
Get a Refresher
Even after an egg is cooked, the shell is its best form of protection. Not only does the shell protect the egg from drying out, but it also prevents it from absorbing flavors and odors from nearby foods. The exception to this rule, of course, is if you want your eggs to pick up flavors of other ingredients, like in a salad or saucy noodle bowl.
Packing Hard-Boiled Eggs for Lunch
It’s also important to keep hard-boiled eggs stashed in the refrigerator until you’re ready to eat. But if you don’t have access to a fridge during the day, a couple of ice packs will get the job done to keep them chilled. Eggs are still perishable even when they’re cooked, so keeping them chilled is the best way to keep them fresh and safe for eating.
When it comes to packing, you also want to minimize jostling or ratting around to prevent the shell from cracking. Try wrapping it in a cloth napkin or paper towel for extra cushioning, or keep it in the smallest section of your lunch box or a tight-fitting container.