Lunchbox Recipes for Kids Using Rice Bran & Soybean Oil

What to give your kids in the lunchbox is a universal problem for every mom. You open the fridge, look into the leftovers and ingredients and think what they will actually eat today? And if your child is a picky eater, then the stakes are even higher. If they don't like the food, they will just bring it back without even taking a single bite. But with the morning rush, you don’t always have much time to prepare something lavish. So, here is a full-week lunchbox plan you can prepare using rice bran refined oil and soybean cooking to make sure they are light, healthy and of course tasty. We have added an extra recipe as backup for Sunday, in case the first choice doesn't get approved. Let’s get you out the door with less stress and more finished tiffins:

7-day Tiffin Recipes Using Rice Bran and Soyabean Oil

1. Monday — Paneer & Veggie Paratha Pockets

Mondays feel a little slower. So, this soft, warm pocket-style paratha works beautifully. It’s easy for kids to eat without getting messy. Paneer adds protein without overwhelming flavour, and you can hide veggies. You can prepare the paneer-and-veg filling the night before. In the morning, all you have to do is roll, cook, and pack. Oil: Go for rice bran oil for cooking this recipe. It keeps the paratha soft while giving just enough crispness on the outside. Plus, it handles high heat well, so the roti doesn’t burn before the inside warms through. Prep time: 14–20 mins

​Lunchbox tip:

Wrap the parathas in foil or butter paper to trap warmth and moisture. If your child is texture-sensitive, grate paneer extra fine. A tiny swipe of honey-mint chutney adds a playful sweetness that nudges picky eaters to take that first bite.

2. Tuesday — Chicken Hakka Noodles

Every mom knows that noodles rarely get rejected. They’re fun to twirl and comforting to chew, and you can add veggies without complaining. To make it a bit healthier, switch to atta noodles. Oil: Rice bran refined oil is the best choice. It has a high smoke point and is perfect for high-heat tossing. The noodles stay non-sticky and glossy without extra grease. Prep time: 15–20 mins

3. Wednesday — Vegetable Masala Quinoa / Oats (Veg)

When making a lunchbox, you want something that is not too “heavy” but still offers enough energy to carry kids through the day. This bowl does exactly that. It’s soft, gentle on the stomach, and mild enough for even sensitive eaters. The flavours aren’t strong, but the colours and textures make it playful. Oil: Refined soybean oil has a soft flavour that goes nicely with grains and enhances the flavour. Prep time: 14–18 mins

Lunchbox tip:

You can add a small box of curd or yoghurt. It’s a mini dessert option that gives your kid calcium, protein, and probiotics.

4. Thursday — Mini Veggie Sooji Idli Bites

Kids love anything small and cute. Mini idlis are  soft, bouncy, and easy for kids to pick up. Add grated veggies to add a pop of colour and nutrients. You can use an idli steamer or an appam pan and brush with a little oil. Oil: Rice bran or soybean cooking oil both work well for this recipe. Prep time: 14–20 mins

5. Friday — Veg Fried Rice

This is your “use everything in the fridge” day. Fried rice is colourful, crunchy, and filling. It works perfectly for picky eaters who enjoy simple flavours. You can use either freshly cooked rice or leftover rice. Oil: Rice bran refined oil is ideal for fast stir-fries because it doesn’t smoke too fast and keeps veggies crisp. Prep time: 14–16 mins

Lunchbox tip:

If your child eats eggs, mix in scrambled eggs for extra protein. If not, throw in sweet corn or soft paneer cubes.

6. Saturday — Egg Roll Wraps

Egg roll wraps are always a fan favourite. The soft roti, fluffy omelette, and a little veggie crunch taste delicious. They can easily hold it with their hands without making a mess. Oil: Soybean oil for cooking omelettes gives it a soft finish and spreads beautifully across the pan. Prep time: 10–15 mins

Quick hack:

Cook two thin omelettes at once in a wide pan and slice them in half. It makes it easier to assemble.

Lunchbox tip:

Cut the roll into colourful pinwheels. Sometimes presentation does the trick when taste alone doesn’t win.

7. Sunday — Stir-Fry Pasta with Veggies

Sunday tiffins should feel cheerful — something comforting that doesn’t feel “repetitive.” This quick stir-fry pasta fits perfectly. Why this works: If your kid loves pasta, then it’s a delightful weekend snack. Experiment with different shapes; this will make their experience more engaging. Cook the pasta the previous night and store it with a drizzle of oil so it doesn’t stick. Oil: Rice bran refined oil keeps veggies crispy and prevents pasta from clumping together. Prep time: 14–20 mins

Lunchbox tip:

Add a tiny cube of butter or sprinkle some shredded cheese. This will make the pasta more flavoursome.

Wrap-Up

Packing lunch for kids is not always about making something healthy and tasty. You also have to be a bit more creative by adding shapes or colours to the foods. This is why pastas and noodles are popular with kids. Don’t force them to eat. Instead, turn it into an experience that they enjoy. That’s how you build a healthy relationship with food. To make the food healthy, you can just switch up the ingredients you are using to healthier ones, like refined soyabean oil or rice bran refined oil.

​FAQs

Is rice bran oil safe for everyday cooking for kids?

Yes. Rice bran refined oil is light, neutral in taste, and has a high smoke point, making it suitable for everyday Indian cooking, especially stir-fries, parathas, noodles, and quick lunchbox meals.

Can I use soybean oil for kids’ lunchbox recipes?

Absolutely. Refined soybean oil is rich in healthy fats, has a mild flavour, and blends well with grains, eggs, and sautéed vegetables. It’s a practical, economical, and healthy choice for daily cooking.

Do these recipes stay fresh till lunchtime?

Yes, they stay fresh for long hours. But before packing it into the lunchbox, cool the food slightly. You can also use an insulated lunch box to keep the food warm. If you don’t want any spillage, then avoid adding runny curries.

Are noodles, pasta, and parathas healthy for kids?

Yes, when they are made with whole wheat or atta variants. Loading with veggies, and cooking using healthier oils like rice bran or soybean oil makes them healthier.

Can these recipes be prepared the night before?

Yes. Most of them like pasta, quinoa, sooji idlis, shredded chicken, fillings, and chopped veggies can be prepped in advance. This reduces morning stress and helps you assemble lunchboxes faster.