A truck driver’s diet is largely dependent upon circumstances. There are, however, certain things that you can do to assure healthier choices and a happier outlook as a result. Mickey Genuine Parts wants its truckers and other customers to be healthy and happy, so here are some suggestions.
Cold-Weather Comfort
Particularly in winter, it is comforting to have a warm meal. If you can’t have a hot meal, you at least want something that is comforting and warms the soul. Low nutrient density, a limited selection on veggies and fruits, and foods that are high in calories are not uncommon to a trucker’s diet in colder months. But with a little know-how and the right tools, not to mention the right ingredients, better choices can be made in the way of comfort foods.
Keep in mind, of course, that for many of these ideas to work, there’s going to be a certain amount of planning ahead. You have to get yourself in the right mindset. When it all comes down, however, you’ll be glad you did.
What You Will Need
Aside from the ingredients for healthy dishes, you’re going to need something in which to prepare them, or a suitable carrying container, if you’re going to prepare them at home ahead of time. Carrying containers can be thermos type containers that will keep your dishes warm, or, if you have access to a microwave, you can skip the thermos-like qualities.
Depending on your preference, some people choose to go with slow cookers while others choose rice cookers. Either way, it only takes one pot in which to make your meal. These are perfect for soups, stews, etc. There are 12 V slow cookers available as well as other types of cookers to use on the road. These can be found at Amazon and other e-commerce sites, as well as at some brick-and-mortar stores.
The dishes you will make in these appliances are only as healthy as the ingredients you choose, however. So, choose wisely whenever you can.
Ideal Healthy Ingredients
When we’re talking about stews and soups, certain healthy choices come to mind as far as ingredients are concerned. Carrots and squash, or any other root vegetable, are good choices. So are rice, potatoes, and other grains. Canned tomatoes and beans are handy to have around as well and are easily stored. Sometimes, at certain truck stops, you may be able to pick up carrot sticks and celery if need be.
Time to Flavor Up
You’ve got your main food ingredients chosen, now it’s time for flavor. It all depends on if you want to go with a punch or if you’re trying to achieve a more mellow taste. Flavor adding spices can include garlic, basil, thyme, onion powder, paprika, and of course salt and pepper.
Slow Cooker/Rice Cooker Suggestions
It’s easy enough to Google slow cooker or rice cooker comfort food suggestions. For the easiest to make, do a search for “dump and go slow cooker recipes”. But here’s a handful to get you started.
- Honey Balsamic Beef Stew
- Maple Chicken Stew
- Pork Carnitas
- Sweet and Sour Smokies
- Teriyaki Chicken
Mickey Genuine Parts cares for its customers and employees. That’s why bring topics like the one explored above to your attention. We want everybody to be safe and healthy. One sure way to encourage safety is to always purchase high-quality trailers and parts from Mickey. Not only do we offer some of the best parts available, but we back them up with a guarantee and offer expert care through our Mickey certified service centers. These centers are located throughout the United States for your convenience. When it comes to trailers and trucking, Mickey Genuine Parts is a leader in the industry. Call us today to find out what Mickey can do for you.