Bento: The Art of a Quick Snack at Work

In Japan, they know how to eat not only delicious and healthy food, but also beautiful food. In this issue, we offer you a selection of photographs of bento boxes, a Japanese take-away lunch.

The modern pace of life often forces us to look for ways to save time on food without sacrificing quality. One of the best options is bento, a traditional Japanese way of packing food. But bento is more than just a box of food; it's a true art form, combining taste, health, and aesthetics.

In Japan, a bento is a single-serve meal, specially packaged for on-the-go use. The history of bento dates back to Japan, where this method of food storage was used as early as the Kamakura period (1185–1333).

Today, bento has become popular worldwide due to its versatility, simplicity, and visual appeal. The art of bento preparation is highly prized in Japan and considered one of the essential qualities of a good housewife.

There's also a special bento delivery service in Japan. It's called "Hoka-Hoka Tai," and the bento sold through it is called "hokaben."

A traditional bento lunch consists of rice, fish or meat, and pickled, raw, or cooked vegetables. All of this is packaged in a convenient box with a lid. Bento boxes come in a wide variety of designs, from standard ones you can buy at any supermarket to truly exquisite, handcrafted masterpieces.

The most traditional and oldest bento container is the special lacquered box "chokado bento", divided into several compartments inside.

Making bento is a fun and creative process. Here are some tips to help you master this art:

Bento boxes come in several styles. For example, "kyaraben" is a bento box decorated in the shape of characters from popular Japanese cartoons and video games.

Another popular style of bento decoration is "oekakiben" (picture bento). The dish is decorated in the shape of animals, buildings, monuments, flowers, or even people. There are even official competitions for creating these bento.

A very easy-to-make and very patriotic bento is called a "hinomaru bento" (hinomaru is the flag of Japan). This bento features a slice of red boiled carrot or pickled plum on white boiled rice. It's a very inexpensive and healthy meal.

The basic ratio for rice, fish (or meat), vegetables, and sauce for a bento box is 4:3:2:1. Cooked rice should be completely cooled and slightly dried before placing it in the bento box; otherwise, steam may condense under the lid of the box, causing the food to lose its flavor and appearance.

Here are some ideas for filling your bento:

The Japanese are renowned for their ability to create exquisite works of art from virtually nothing, so bento boxes can also boast some unrivaled masterpieces. Here are a few examples that might inspire you to create your own delicious masterpiece.

Today in Japan, ready-made, packaged bento boxes are available in department stores, train stations, supermarkets, and shops specializing in bento boxes. You can also order an elegantly presented bento box at a restaurant.

Bentos aren't just a snack; they're also a chance to express your creativity. These lunches will help you feel energized and productive throughout the workday. Start with simple recipes and gradually improve your skills!

Now that you know the basics, it's time to start creating your first bento and enjoy lunches prepared with love.