Sari’s $2 Batch Prep: The ‘Universal’ Grain Bowl

This is my go-to Sunday routine for hitting my protein goals without spending more than 1010-15 on a week of lunches. We’re using a high-volume base of roasted cruciferous veg, hearty grains, and a zesty tahini-lemon dressing that actually tastes better by Thursday.

4

The Shopping List #

Measure these out before you start. These ratios ensure your bowls aren't 90% rice and 10% toppings.

  • Dry Grains (Farro, Quinoa, or Brown Rice):
    Dry Grains
    0g
  • Legumes (Chickpeas or Black Beans):
    Canned Legumes
    0g
    (Roughly half a can per lunch)
  • Roasting Veg (Sweet Potato, Broccoli, or Cauliflower):
    Chopped Veg
    0g
  • Sari's House Dressing (Tahini, Lemon, Garlic, Maple):
    Dressing
    0 tbsp

The Prep Flow #

My rule: Don’t touch the stove until the cutting board is clear. Efficiency is the only way batch prepping stays sustainable.

Chop veg into 2cm cubes (smaller = faster roasting)
Rinse grains thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve
Drain legumes and PAT DRY (crucial for texture)
Whisk dressing in a jar until emulsified

The Execution #

  • 1.
    High-Heat Roast: Toss your veg and dried chickpeas with olive oil and salt. Spread them across two pans if needed—if the pan is crowded, they’ll steam instead of crisping.
  • Roast at 200°C/400°F
    25:00
  • 1.
    The Passive Grain Simmer: Get your grains going. Once they hit a boil, drop to the lowest heat and walk away.
  • Simmer Grains
    17:00
  • 1.
    The Steam Finish: This is the secret to fluffy grains. Turn off the heat, keep the lid on, and let the residual steam finish the job. No mushy rice allowed.
  • The Fluff Buffer
    05:00

    Assembly & Storage #

    Don't pack these hot! If you trap steam in the Tupperware, you'll have soggy broccoli by Tuesday. Let everything reach room temperature on the counter first.

    Pro Tip: Pack your dressing in small 2oz containers separately. Pour it over just before you microwave or eat—it keeps the grains from absorbing all the moisture.

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