Introduction:

If you are looking for a way to make your lunch more exciting and nutritious, you might want to try bento lunch boxes. Bento is a Japanese word that means “convenient” and refers to a boxed meal with compartments separating different foods. Bento boxes are popular in Asian cuisines, but they can also be used to pack any kind of food you like, from cheese and crackers to salads and sandwiches.

Benefits:

Bento boxes have many benefits, such as:

They help you control your portion sizes and balance your nutrition. By using different compartments, you can easily divide your food into the recommended amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, and fruits. You can also avoid overeating by filling up your box with healthy foods that will keep you satisfied until your next meal.
They reduce food waste and save you money. By packing your own lunch, you can use up the leftovers in your fridge or pantry and avoid buying expensive or unhealthy food from restaurants or vending machines. You can also reuse your bento box and cutlery, which is better for the environment than disposable containers and plastic utensils.
They make your lunch more fun and creative. You can use different shapes, colors, and textures to make your food look appealing and appetizing. You can also add some cute accessories, such as stickers, picks, or dividers, to decorate your box and express your personality. You can even theme your bento box according to the season, holiday, or occasion.

How to Choose a Bento Box

There are many types and styles of bento boxes available in the market, so how do you choose the best one for you? Here are some factors to consider:

Size and capacity. The size of your bento box should match your appetite and dietary needs. A typical bento box has a capacity of about 600 to 800 milliliters, which is equivalent to about two to three cups of food. However, you can find smaller or larger boxes depending on your preference. You can also use multiple boxes if you need more space or variety.
Material and durability. The material of your bento box should be safe, sturdy, and easy to clean. Some common materials are plastic, stainless steel, wood, and bamboo. Plastic boxes are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be microwave- or dishwasher-safe. Stainless steel boxes are durable and eco-friendly, but they may not be leakproof or insulated. Wood and bamboo boxes are natural and elegant, but they may require more care and maintenance.
Design and features. The design of your bento box should suit your taste and lifestyle. Some boxes have simple and minimalist designs, while others have colorful and cute patterns. Some boxes have one or two tiers, while others have multiple compartments or containers. Some boxes have lids that seal tightly, while others have vents or valves. Some boxes come with accessories, such as cutlery, chopsticks, or sauce bottles, while others require you to buy them separately.

Recommended Examples

Some examples of bento boxes that we recommend are:

Bentgo Bento Box: This is a versatile and modern bento box that has two tiers, one with an adjustable divider and one with a separate sauce container. It also comes with a set of cutlery and a thick elastic band to hold the tiers together. It is made of BPA-free plastic and is dishwasher- and microwave-safe. It has a spacious capacity of 880 milliliters and is available in various colors.
Jeopace Bento Box: This is a budget-friendly and practical bento box that has one tier with four compartments. It also has a lid with a gasket and four latches to prevent leaks and spills. It is made of wheat straw fiber and food-grade plastic and is dishwasher- and microwave-safe. It has a capacity of 800 milliliters and is suitable for both kids and adults.
Ecolunchbox Three-in-One Classic: This is a durable and eco-friendly bento box that has three stainless steel containers that nest together. The top container has a lid that doubles as a plate, the middle container has a divider to separate foods, and the bottom container is ideal for salads or sandwiches. It is dishwasher-safe and has a capacity of 960 milliliters. It is perfect for those who prefer a metal box over a plastic one.

How to Pack a Bento Box

Once you have chosen your bento box, you can start packing your lunch with your favorite foods. Here are some tips and ideas to help you pack a healthy and delicious bento box:

Plan ahead. It is a good idea to plan your menu and prepare your ingredients in advance, so you can save time and avoid stress in the morning. You can also cook some dishes in bulk and store them in the fridge or freezer, so you can reheat them and pack them in your box when needed. You can also use leftovers from your dinner or breakfast as part of your lunch.
Balance your nutrition. A balanced bento box should contain about 50 percent carbohydrates, 25 percent protein, and 25 percent vegetables and fruits. You can use rice, noodles, bread, or quinoa as your main source of carbohydrates. You can use meat, fish, eggs, tofu, or cheese as your main source of protein. You can use fresh, cooked, or pickled vegetables and fruits as your main source of vitamins and minerals. You can also add some nuts, seeds, or dried fruits as snacks or desserts.
Make it colorful and varied. A colorful and varied bento box will not only look more appealing, but also provide you with more nutrients and flavors. You can use different types of foods, such as grains, legumes, dairy, or seafood, to diversify your protein and carbohydrate sources. You can also use different colors of foods, such as green, red, yellow, or purple, to enhance your visual and sensory experience. You can also use different seasonings, sauces, or dressings to add some zest and spice to your food.
Make it fun and creative. A fun and creative bento box will make your lunch more enjoyable and memorable. You can use different shapes, such as circles, squares, triangles, or stars, to cut your food or arrange it in your box. You can also use different accessories, such as molds, cutters, stamps, or wrappers, to make your food look more cute and attractive. You can also use different themes, such as animals, flowers, or characters, to inspire your food decoration and presentation.

Suggested Examples

Some examples of bento box lunches that we suggest are:

Cheese and Charcuterie Bento Box: This is a simple and elegant bento box that features cheese, crackers, salami, grapes, and olives. You can use any type of cheese and crackers that you like, and add some nuts or dried fruits for extra crunch and sweetness. You can also use a small container or bottle to pack some mustard or honey as a dip or spread for your cheese and salami.
Salad Bento Box: This is a fresh and nutritious bento box that features a salad, a sandwich, and a fruit. You can use any type of salad greens, vegetables, cheese, and dressing that you like, and toss them in a large container. You can also use any type of bread, meat, and cheese that you like, and make a sandwich in a small container. You can also use any type of fruit that you like, and cut it into bite-sized pieces in another small container.
Japanese Bento Box: This is a traditional and authentic bento box that features rice, chicken teriyaki, broccoli, and strawberries. You can use white or brown rice, and cook it with some water and salt in a pot or rice cooker. You can also use chicken breast or thigh, and marinate it with some soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and garlic in a ziplock bag. You can then bake or grill the chicken until golden and tender, and slice it into thin pieces. You can also use fresh or frozen broccoli, and steam or microwave it until crisp and bright. You can also use fresh strawberries, and wash and hull them. You can then arrange the rice, chicken, broccoli, and strawberries in your box, and sprinkle some sesame seeds or green onions for garnish.

Conclusion:

Bento lunch boxes are a great way to pack your meals in a healthy and fun way. They can help you control your portions, reduce your food waste, and save your money. They can also make your lunch more colorful, varied, and creative. You can choose from a wide range of bento boxes and accessories to suit your preferences and needs. You can also pack any kind of food you like, from cheese and crackers to salads and sandwiches. Bento lunch boxes are not only convenient, but also enjoyable. Try making your own bento lunch box today and see the difference!