In a world where time is a precious commodity, meal prepping has become an essential skill. This article explores how three Copenhagen-based chefs have mastered the art of preparing meals in bulk on Sunday that can be easily modified throughout the week. The dishes they recommend not only last up to a week in the fridge but are also versatile enough to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Each recipe is designed to be transportable, making it perfect for busy professionals who need nutritious meals at their desks.

Mastering Meal Prep with Professional Flair

In the heart of Copenhagen, David Zilber, a 39-year-old chef formerly associated with the renowned Noma restaurant, shares his expertise on meal preparation. Last autumn, when Zilber was away for a week, his family enjoyed gourmet meals thanks to his forward planning. His girlfriend and two-year-old son feasted on chicken meatballs and hearty curry dishes he had prepared in advance. These meals exemplify the essence of meal prep—dishes that improve over time and offer endless possibilities for customization.

Eva Hurtigkarl, the resident chef at the Danish fashion label Ganni, emphasizes the versatility of her big-batch beans. These beans serve as a foundation for dips, salads, and soups, offering a quick and healthy option for busy days. Meanwhile, Youra Kim, owner of Propaganda, one of Copenhagen’s leading Korean restaurants, highlights bulgogi, a marinated beef dish, for its adaptability. Whether paired with white rice or spaghetti, this dish promises variety without extra effort.

Zilber's curry, a staple in his household, has evolved from a high school favorite into a necessity for keeping his young child satisfied. This curry, enriched with chicken meatballs, combines aromatic spices and fresh herbs, ensuring each bite is a burst of flavor. The ingredients come together harmoniously, creating a dish that improves with age and can be enhanced with additions like bean sprouts, basil, diced mango, or roasted peanuts.

From stew-like consistencies that develop richer flavors over time to versatile base ingredients that transform into different meals, these recipes provide solutions for those seeking convenience without compromising on taste.

Meal prepping with a chef's touch means embracing flexibility and creativity. By preparing large batches of versatile dishes, one can enjoy unique lunch experiences every day of the week. The key lies in choosing ingredients that can evolve and adapt, allowing for endless variations without requiring extensive preparation. As these chefs demonstrate, with a little planning and imagination, even the busiest individuals can savor delicious, homemade meals daily.