Fun bento boxes
Bento boxes are a great way to provide a balanced lunch with portion control.
Bento boxes originate from Japan and offer a visually pleasing and balanced approach to packing a lunch. They consist of a single-portion meal with compartments for different dishes, making them ideal for variety and portion control. For children, a bento box lunch can be a delightful surprise, filled with color, flavor, and fun shapes that can make healthy foods more enticing. In this chapter, we’ll explore the art of assembling a bento that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at.
The basics of bento
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s cover some bento box basics:
Compartmentalization: Use the compartments or dividers in the bento box to separate different foods, preventing flavors from mixing and making the meal visually appealing.
Balance: Aim for a balance of food groups - include proteins, carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, and a small treat.
Color and Texture: A visually appealing bento box is filled with a variety of colors and textures. This not only looks great but also ensures a range of nutrients.
Safety: Keep in mind food safety. If the lunchbox will sit out for a few hours before eating, consider packing a small ice pack to keep perishable items cool.
Fun bento box ideas
The classic combo bento
- Protein: Turkey and cheese roll-ups.
- Carbs: Whole grain pita triangles.
- Veggies: Cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes.
- Fruits: Mixed berries.
- Treat: A small portion of dark chocolate chips.
The rainbow bento
- Protein: Grilled chicken cubes on skewers.
- Carbs: Mini rainbow bagels with cream cheese.
- Veggies: Bell pepper strips in a variety of colors.
- Fruits: A skewer of grapes, pineapple, and melon balls.
- Treat: Yogurt-covered raisins.
The breakfast-for-lunch bento
- Protein: Hard-boiled eggs shaped with egg molds.
- Carbs: Mini pancakes with a side of syrup.
- Veggies: Baby carrots with a dip.
- Fruits: Apple slices with a peanut butter dip.
- Treat: A homemade oatmeal cookie.
The Mediterranean bento
- Protein: Falafel balls and hummus.
- Carbs: Pita bread and olives.
- Veggies: Grape tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
- Fruits: Diced watermelon.
- Treat: A piece of baklava.
The sushi bento
- Protein: Turkey and avocado sushi rolls.
- Carbs: A small container of edamame beans.
- Veggies: Seaweed salad.
- Fruits: Mandarin orange segments.
- Treat: A matcha green tea cookie.
The safari expedition bento
- Protein: Grilled chicken strips (zebra stripes)
- Carbs: Mini whole wheat pita pockets (safari bags)
- Veggies: Baby carrot sticks & snap peas (logs & vines)
- Fruits: Banana and kiwi slices (coins and tropical leaves)
- Treat: Animal crackers (wildlife sightings)
Creating a bento box for your child’s lunch can be a playful and nutritious way to encourage them to eat a balanced meal. By following these ideas and tips, you can ensure your child looks forward to lunchtime every day. Remember, the key to a successful bento is in the variety, balance, and a touch of creativity. Enjoy crafting these edible masterpieces that are sure to bring smiles at lunchtime.