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Tammi

How to pack a Bento!

Japanese bentos are a work of art - they functionally allow you to bring a balanced lunch to work, and they also look so gosh darned pretty! Bento: it's not a recipe, it's a lifestyle.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Carbs (e.g.)
  • Rice
  • Bread
  • Pasta
Protein (e.g.)
  • Salmon
  • Nuts
  • Egg
  • Pork
  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Tofu
Fruit and Veg (e.g.)
  • Blueberries
  • Carrots
  • Broccoli
  • Pickled Plums
  • Pickled Cabbage

Method
 

  1. Find a box/container that you like. Ideally it should have a watertight/airtight seal (to prevent unnecessary messes in your bag), and just large enough to fit your food portions.
  2. Here are the magic ratios for packing most bentos: 1/2 carbs, 1/4 protein, 1/4 fruit and veg. Of course, these can be moved around according to preference, but it's a good starting point!
  3. Start to think tetris: one of the beautiful things about a nicely packed bento box is the separation. Every component has its place, and every place is deliberate. Try it, it's very zen!
  4. Pack your favourite foods into your bento.
  5. Bring it somewhere nice.
  6. Enjoy eating it! (Very important XD)

Notes

*The food shouldn't be too wet, or things start to get soggy and a leaking box is on the horizon! If you're a sauce fan like I am, you should carry the sauced in another airtight container, preferably one that stacks with your first!