these just checked every box there ever was 🙏

Okay, so I'm totally with you if you've ever found yourself staring at your fridge on a Tuesday night, wishing a pre-made "katsu bag" meal would magically appear! We all know that feeling of wanting something delicious, healthy, and quick, especially after a long day. That's exactly why I've become obsessed with meal prepping my own katsu curry and other favorites. It's like creating your own personalized 'katsu bag' at home, but way fresher and healthier! Making your own katsu curry for meal prep might sound like a big task, but trust me, it’s easier than you think and so rewarding. The key is to break it down into components. For the katsu itself, while my current menu features a delicious coconut milk katsu curry, you could easily make a classic chicken katsu curry if you prefer poultry. I love to bread chicken, tofu, or even thick slices of sweet potato (following my "sweet potato master" aspirations!) ahead of time. You can bake or air fry a big batch of these cutlets, let them cool, and then store them in airtight containers. They reheat beautifully and stay crispy. Then there's the sauce – arguably the heart of any great katsu curry. My coconut milk katsu curry sauce is incredibly rich and flavorful, and it's perfect for batch cooking. I usually make a double or triple batch at the start of the week. Just simmer coconut milk with your favorite curry spices, maybe some ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, until it thickens. Having this ready means half the battle is won! For the carb component, while rice is traditional, I've found that a perfectly baked jacket potato makes an amazing, hearty alternative that's also super satisfying and fibrous. You can bake a few potatoes in the oven at the same time as your katsu, letting them cool before storing. When it's time to eat, a quick reheat and a generous spoonful of katsu curry sauce over a fluffy jacket potato is pure comfort. And let’s not forget the sides! To really round out my meal prep, I love adding something extra nutritious and delicious. This week, I've got those amazing w/coco braised chickpeas on the menu, and they are seriously a game-changer. Chickpeas cooked down in a flavorful coconut broth are not only packed with protein but also add a wonderful texture and another layer of taste to your meal. They pair incredibly well with katsu curry and can be made in a large batch alongside your sauce. The beauty of this approach is the flexibility. You can portion out your katsu, sauce, and sides into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches, or keep components separate and assemble as needed. This way, you’re not just eating healthy; you’re eating exciting, restaurant-quality meals all week without the fuss. No need for a "katsu bag" from the store when you can whip up something so much better at home! It’s all about making healthy eating simple, sustainable, and super delicious. Trust me, your future self will thank you for this meal prep magic!