A week with Balance Me - Megan's Experience

My Week with Balance Me! 

As someone who's pressed for time working a 9 - 5 while in my third trimester of pregnancy, I took the opportunity with both hands to try a meal delivery service. Enter Balance Me, a plant-based meal delivery service based in the beautiful town of Wanaka delivering food to the immediate area, Cromwell, Queenstown and Dunedin. I received a week's worth of meals, eager to see if they could satisfy my taste buds and simplify my busy life. Here's a day-by-day account of my experience.

Day 1: Teriyaki Meatballs

I was thrilled to kick off my week with Teriyaki Meatballs. Upon opening the neatly packed (compostable) container, I was greeted by a vibrant medley of meatballs, with a side of teriyaki sauce, accompanied by a bed of steamed vegetables and rice.

The first bite was a revelation. The meatballs, made from a mix of soy and lentils, had an impressive texture that mimicked traditional meatballs remarkably well. The teriyaki sauce was both sweet and savoury, perfectly complementing the flavour meatballs. The vegetables were crisp and fresh, adding a delightful crunch to the meal. I ended Day 1 feeling satisfied and excited for what was to come.

Day 2: Chilli Baked Potato

I packed my Chilli Baked Potato for lunch on Tuesday. This meal featured a large, fluffy baked potato loaded with a spicy, bean-based chilli, topped with a generous sprinkle of vegan cheese and corn.

This meal was hearty and full of flavour, with just the right amount of kick. The combination of beans, tomatoes, and spices created a robust, comforting dish that paired perfectly with the soft, warm potato. It was served with crisp green broccoli that was super tasty.  It was a satisfying, comfort-food experience that didn't leave me feeling heavy.

Day 3: Vietnamese Peanut Noodle Salad with Tofu

Mid-week, I was treated to the Vietnamese Peanut Noodle Salad with Tofu. This dish was a colourful explosion of fresh vegetables, rice noodles, and marinated tofu, all tossed in a creamy peanut miso dressing.

The noodle salad was a refreshing change from the previous day's heartier meal. The vegetables were crisp and vibrant, the noodles perfectly cooked, and the tofu well-seasoned and slightly crispy on the outside. The peanut miso dressing was the star of the show – rich, nutty, and slightly tangy, it brought all the components together in a harmonious blend of flavours. This meal was light yet satisfying, and I appreciated the balance of textures and tastes.

Day 4: Cottage Pie

My final meal was the Cottage Pie, a plant-based take on a classic comfort dish. The pie consisted of a savoury lentil and vegetable filling, topped with creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection, served with peas.

This dish was the epitome of comfort food. The lentil filling was rich and flavorful, with a perfect blend of herbs and vegetables that gave it a hearty, satisfying depth. The mashed potatoes were smooth and creamy, providing a perfect counterpoint to the savoury filling. It was a nostalgic, homey dish that wrapped up my week with Balance Me on a high note.

Final Thoughts

After four days of delicious, plant-based meals from Balance Me, I can confidently say that this meal delivery service has exceeded my expectations. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and balanced flavours. The convenience of having these meals delivered to my doorstep was a game-changer, allowing me to enjoy healthy, plant-based meals without the hassle of cooking.

For anyone in Wanaka looking to explore plant-based eating or simply wanting to enjoy delicious, convenient meals, I highly recommend giving Balance Me a try. This week has not only satisfied my taste buds but also inspired me to incorporate more plant-based meals into my routine. Here's to a healthier, more balanced me!