Finally, Tasty Airplane Food: Simple Hacks to Make It Better

Finally, Tasty Airplane Food: Simple Hacks to Make It Better

Airlines claim to care about serving delicious meals, but let's face it: airplane food often falls short. The dishes can taste bland because they're pre-cooked, frozen, and reheated. But don't worry—there are a few easy tricks to make your in-flight meal much more enjoyable.

  • Pack a Small Sauce

A tiny bottle of your favorite sauce can do wonders. Whether it's ketchup, soy sauce, or hot sauce, adding a little extra flavor can make a big difference. Remember the liquid rules at security: containers must be 100ml or less. If you forget to bring your own, you can also ask the flight attendants for a small packet of butter to melt over your meal—it's a surprisingly effective way to enhance the taste.

  • Add Some Spice

Spices are a game changer! Pack small amounts of pepper, chili powder, paprika, or even cinnamon in tiny containers. These take up hardly any space in your hand luggage but can transform a dull meal into something flavorful. For added texture, consider bringing a small snack, like nuts or chips, to sprinkle over your dish or salad.

  • A Dash of Tabasco

Tabasco sauce is a frequent flyer's secret weapon. Celebrity chef Jason Atherton swears by it after receiving the tip from actor Jude Law. "It was Law who told me to always take Tabasco on a plane. Airplane food is always bland, so it's great to give it kick," Atherton shared. A few drops can make all the difference.

  • Quick DIY Meals

Don't like the options on board? Bring a packet of instant soup! Flight attendants will usually provide hot water for free, making it a quick and cost-effective alternative, especially on budget airlines where meals aren't included. Just be mindful of any customs restrictions if you're traveling internationally, particularly to countries like China.

  • Bring Your Own Meal

For ultimate control over your in-flight dining experience, pack your own meal. Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton recommends a simple, travel-friendly dish: "I like to make a cold protein salad with cooked salmon, a touch of teriyaki sauce, fresh chili, and blanched vegetables. It's easy to prepare at home, and six or seven hours later, it still tastes great."

While airplane food might not rival a gourmet meal, a few clever hacks can make it a lot better. With a little planning and creativity, you can turn an average in-flight meal into something you actually enjoy.