
Bento Boxes: What’s the Hype?
Bento boxes have long been a part of Japanese culture, and have steadily been making their way into the Western world. And for good reason! These portable, portioned boxes are perfect for packing light, healthy snacks and lunches. But while thinking inside the (bento) box, feel free to think outside the box as well. Some simple recipes can turn lunch time into fun time!
Keep ratios in mind
Bento boxes are designed so that every meal is a balanced one. Make it a point to include fruits, veggies, dairy, whole grains, and protein into the box. A balanced box is a healthy one!
Make a mini garden
Add some greens (and other colours) to your child’s lunch with this adorable garden inspired meal. Be sure to use organic strawberries, as these fruits tend to be coated in pesticides. Cut berries into smaller pieces for children under five years of age to reduce the risk of choking.
Stick with tradition
For more adventurous eaters, a traditional Japanese bento lunch is perfect. The best part of this style bento is that you can use leftovers from dinner, and the possibilities are endless. A bit of prep beforehand makes putting together lunches in the morning a snap! Find some cultural inspiration here.
Get artsy with it
Even if your kids are more sandwich-and-crisp eaters, you can still make their bento boxes fun and unique. Cookie cutters are a long-time staple of sandwich-making mums everywhere, and bento-specific food cups, moulds, and even pens are available for creative parents to turn lunch into a work of art.
Don’t shy away from special diets
If your kids follow a Paleo or vegan diet, specialised bento box recipes are easier found than you might think. Paleo boxes are grain-free and often free of added sugar as well. Vegan/vegetarian boxes combine lots of fresh veggies and fruits with proteins like nuts and tofu, so you can be sure your kids are getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and energized.
Make the actual box special
There is definitely no shortage of cute and functional bento boxes out there. Bento boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are available in almost any colour imaginable. Let your child take the reins and design their very own personalised bento box. They can choose their own style and colours and go to school knowing that their bento is one of a kind!
With the popularity of bento boxes soaring into the stratosphere, there has never been a better time to jump on the bandwagon. Bento boxes are sized for healthy portions (no more wasted food!), easy to clean, great for the environment, and, best of all, stylish and convenient. With the endless combination of meal possibilities, the sky’s the limit!