Do you hate having to eat airplane food? Most people do. It’s usually dry, bland, and not very appetizing. However, with a little bit of preparation, you can create some amazing in-flight meals that will make your flight much more enjoyable. In this article, we will discuss five secrets to creating the best in-flight meals. Follow these tips and you’ll be enjoying delicious and healthy meals while up in the air!
1. Understand what makes airline food bland
In case you didn’t know, the biggest reason why most airline food tastes bland and flavorless isn’t that it’s mass-produced or cheaply made. It actually has more to do with your own ability to taste while cruising at 30,000 feet in a pressurized cabin than it does with the cooks who prepared it.
At that altitude, and in such a dry environment, your senses of taste and smell are greatly reduced. With that being said, it’s not always the food’s fault. Sometimes, it’s just the environment. However, there are still some things you can do to enhance the food so that it’s more enjoyable.
2. Bring your own food
For most people, flying is an inherently stressful experience. From the long lines at security to the cramped seats on the plane, there are plenty of things that can ruin a trip before it even starts. And while there’s no guarantee that everything will go smoothly, there is one way to make your journey a bit more bearable: bring your own food.
Airline food is notoriously unhealthy and overpriced, so why not pack your own healthy snacks to tide you over during the flight? Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be able to avoid the endless array of unhealthy airport food options. So next time you’re getting ready for a flight, be sure to pack your own snacks and save yourself some stress.
3. Choose wisely
Just as you would choose truck-friendly hotels wisely, you should also choose your food wisely! Learn more about the best truck-friendly hotels in this article. When it comes to airplane food, there are usually two options: the standard meal and the vegetarian meal. While both options have their pros and cons, there are a few things you should keep in mind when making your decision.
First, the standard meal is usually more filling and has more protein (because of meat), so it’s a better option if you’re looking for something to tide you over during a long flight. However, the vegetarian meal is usually healthier and has more fresh vegetables, so it’s a better option if you’re looking for a nutritious meal.
Nowadays, airlines are able to provide more than just two options for meals, so be sure to check the menu before you book your flight. That way, you can make an informed decision about which meal is right for you. As a rule, it’s always good to steer clear of thick sauces and greasy options if you are trying to watch your weight.
Thick sauces are often loaded with sugar and preservatives, and we all know how bad greasy food can be. Putting that in your body at high altitudes will only cause your blood sugar to spike, then crash, and leave you feeling hungry for the rest of the flight.
4. Go for umami
Luckily, there is still one flavor profile that you can still taste while cruising at high altitudes —umami. Umami is often described as the “fifth taste,” alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. But what exactly is it? The word “umami” comes from the Japanese word for “delicious,” and it is used to describe food with a rich, savory flavor.
Think of the complex taste of a well-aged cheese or the hearty flavor of a grilled steak. Umami is often used to enhance other flavors, and it is a staple of many cuisines, from Italian to Chinese. You can use this to your advantage on your flight by packing some nice cheeses, or ordering a meal with mushrooms or tomatoes.
5. Don’t overindulge
Overindulging on a flight can actually be quite disastrous for your health. The dry air onboard can lead to the feeling of dehydration, followed by headaches and fatigue. So instead of opting for that third helping of lasagna, go for a light salad or some fruit instead. Your body will thank you for it later.
Conclusion
Eating on a plane doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. By following these simple tips, you can make the most of your in-flight meal and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and satisfied. So next time you’re packing for a trip, be sure to keep these secrets in mind and enjoy your flight!
