50+ Easy and Healthy Japanese Lunch Box Recipes You’ll Love

Japanese lunch boxes, or bento, have long been celebrated for their beautiful presentation and carefully balanced flavors. These compact, portable meals offer a delightful combination of textures and colors that make them as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Whether you’re packing lunch for yourself, your kids, or a loved one, a Japanese bento box can be a fun and healthy way to enjoy a variety of foods in a single meal.

From savory grilled meats to delicate vegetables and flavorful rice dishes, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your own bento box.

In this article, we’ve gathered over 50 amazing Japanese lunch box recipes to inspire your next bento creation. These recipes range from classic dishes like Teriyaki Chicken and Tamago (Japanese omelet) to more unique ideas, including sushi rolls and even sweet treats.

Whether you’re new to bento making or an experienced pro, you’ll find recipes that suit all tastes and dietary preferences.

50+ Easy and Healthy Japanese Lunch Box Recipes You’ll Love

With over 50 Japanese lunch box recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of creative and delicious ideas for your bento meals.

These recipes bring together the best of Japanese culinary tradition in a way that’s both practical and enjoyable. From the simplicity of a rice-based dish to the complex flavors of simmered meats and fresh vegetables, there’s something for everyone.

So, grab your bento box, gather your ingredients, and start preparing the perfect lunch that’s sure to satisfy both your appetite and your sense of adventure in the kitchen.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or preparing a special lunch for a loved one, these recipes will elevate your lunch game to a whole new level.

Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box

This Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box is a flavorful and balanced meal that combines tender, juicy chicken glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce. Paired with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, and pickles, this dish offers a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. Perfect for lunch or a special meal, it’s a great way to enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine in the form of an easy-to-pack lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup steamed white rice
• 1/2 cup steamed broccoli
• 1/2 cup pickled carrots or cucumbers (optional)
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Nori strips (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder to make the teriyaki sauce.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.
4. While the chicken cooks, prepare the rice and steam the broccoli until tender.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the pan and brush with the remaining teriyaki sauce. Slice the chicken into strips.
6. To assemble the bento, place the rice in one compartment, the teriyaki chicken strips in another, and add the steamed broccoli and pickled vegetables in the remaining sections. Garnish with sesame seeds and nori strips if desired.
7. Pack the bento box with care, ensuring everything stays separated and fresh.

The Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box is a satisfying and colorful lunch that brings a balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and savory teriyaki chicken pairs beautifully with the simple, fresh sides like rice and vegetables. This bento is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent option for a homemade lunch that’s both filling and health-conscious. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance, ensuring a quick and delightful meal on busy days.

Ebi Tempura Bento Box

The Ebi Tempura Bento Box is a crunchy, crispy delight that’s sure to satisfy seafood lovers. Featuring lightly battered shrimp (ebi) tempura, it’s paired with steamed rice, a side of tangy dipping sauce, and refreshing salad or veggies. This bento is a great way to enjoy the light and crispy goodness of tempura in a portable, lunch-friendly form.

Ingredients:

• 6 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup cold sparkling water (or ice-cold water)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/2 cup mixed greens or shredded cabbage
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. To make the tempura batter, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gradually add the cold sparkling water, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be lumpy.
2. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
3. Dredge each shrimp in the tempura batter, allowing any excess to drip off before carefully placing them in the hot oil. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. For the dipping sauce, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and grated ginger in a small bowl and stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Steam the rice and prepare the mixed greens or cabbage by tossing them with sesame seeds.
6. To assemble the bento, place the steamed rice in one compartment, the ebi tempura in another, and the salad in the final section. Include a small container of dipping sauce and a lemon wedge if desired.
7. Pack everything securely, ensuring the tempura remains crispy.

The Ebi Tempura Bento Box is a fantastic option for a crunchy, indulgent meal that still maintains a sense of lightness thanks to the fresh salad and rice. The crispy shrimp tempura, combined with the tangy dipping sauce, is a treat for the taste buds. This bento is both elegant and practical, perfect for a lunchbox that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday lunch, this dish brings a taste of Japan’s beloved tempura tradition right to your lunch break.

Vegetarian Sushi Bento Box

The Vegetarian Sushi Bento Box is a fresh, healthy, and vibrant lunch that showcases the beauty of sushi without any fish. With a variety of colorful veggies wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and nori (seaweed), this bento is a creative twist on traditional sushi. It’s a great vegetarian alternative for sushi lovers and a light, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
• 1/2 cucumber, julienned
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup pickled radish (or daikon)
• 1/4 cup carrot, julienned
• Soy sauce for dipping
• Pickled ginger (optional)
• Wasabi (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rice and water, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Gently fold the seasoned vinegar mixture into the rice, then let it cool to room temperature.
3. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down. Spread a thin layer of cooled sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Arrange cucumber, avocado, pickled radish, and carrot in a line at the bottom of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi tightly from the bottom using the sushi mat, applying gentle pressure. Seal the edge with a little water.
6. Slice the rolled sushi into bite-sized pieces.
7. To assemble the bento, place the sliced sushi in one compartment, and garnish with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi if desired.
8. You can also add some steamed edamame or a side of fresh fruit to round out the meal.

The Vegetarian Sushi Bento Box is a delightful, colorful, and nutritious option for a meat-free lunch. Filled with fresh veggies and wrapped in tender sushi rice, it’s a light but filling meal that’s perfect for those seeking a healthier yet satisfying dish. The sushi rolls can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables, making this recipe versatile and fun to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy sushi flavors without fish, and it works wonderfully for lunchboxes or picnics.

Katsu Curry Bento Box

The Katsu Curry Bento Box is a hearty and satisfying meal, featuring crispy breaded pork or chicken cutlet (katsu) served alongside a rich, flavorful Japanese curry. Paired with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables, this bento box brings together comforting flavors that are sure to satisfy hunger and brighten your lunch hour. It’s a perfect choice for those craving a filling, delicious, and easy-to-make lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 pork or chicken cutlets (boneless)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup Japanese curry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup pickled vegetables (e.g., pickled radish or cucumber)

Instructions:

1. For the katsu, first season the pork or chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, dip them into the beaten egg, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the cutlets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
3. While the cutlets are cooking, prepare the curry sauce according to package instructions or heat up store-bought curry sauce in a saucepan.
4. Once the katsu is done, slice it into strips.
5. For the bento box, place the steamed rice in one compartment, the sliced katsu in another, and pour the curry sauce over the katsu.
6. Add a side of pickled vegetables for balance and color.
7. Pack the bento box and enjoy!

The Katsu Curry Bento Box is an indulgent and comforting meal that combines the crunchiness of breaded katsu with the warmth of Japanese curry sauce. The crispy cutlet pairs perfectly with the rich, savory curry and is complemented by the lightness of steamed rice and the acidity of pickled vegetables. This bento box is perfect for those who need a filling lunch to power through the afternoon, offering a mix of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and delicious.

Onigiri Bento Box

Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a popular and convenient lunch choice. In this bento box, onigiri are filled with flavorful ingredients such as umeboshi (pickled plum), salmon, or tuna mayo. Served with a side of fresh veggies and a light dipping sauce, this bento offers a delightful mix of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. Onigiri are great for those looking for a simple, customizable, and portable lunch option.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sushi rice (cooked)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cooked or canned tuna (optional)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
• 1/4 cup umeboshi (pickled plum) or 1/2 cup grilled salmon (mashed)
• 1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into strips
• 1/2 cup steamed broccoli or edamame
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions, then mix in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
2. For the onigiri filling, you can either use umeboshi (mashed) or prepare tuna mayo by mixing tuna with mayonnaise. Alternatively, use grilled salmon, mashed.
3. Wet your hands with water and a little salt to prevent the rice from sticking. Take a small portion of rice (about 1/4 cup) and form it into a triangle shape, pressing gently to compact the rice.
4. Make a small indentation in the center of the rice ball and add a teaspoon of your chosen filling. Seal the rice ball around the filling and mold it into a triangle.
5. Wrap the onigiri in nori strips for extra flavor and decoration.
6. Assemble the bento box by placing the onigiri in one compartment and adding steamed broccoli or edamame and cherry tomatoes for a colorful, fresh side.
7. Pack the bento, ensuring the onigiri remain intact.

Onigiri is a perfect, easy-to-make lunch that provides variety and flavor with each bite. This bento box is great for those who enjoy customizing their meals, as you can switch up the fillings with your favorite ingredients. The combination of tender rice, savory fillings, and fresh veggies makes this bento both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s highly portable and can be packed in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days or picnics.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry Bento Box

This Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry Bento Box is a vegetarian delight that’s packed with protein and fresh veggies. The tofu is crisped up and paired with a colorful mix of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini, all tossed in a savory soy-based stir-fry sauce. Served with rice and a side of pickled vegetables, this bento is a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying lunch that’s perfect for anyone seeking a plant-based option.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 zucchini, sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup pickled vegetables (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until all sides are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary and sauté the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and grated ginger to make the stir-fry sauce.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and pour the stir-fry sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. To assemble the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment, the tofu and vegetable stir-fry in another, and add a side of pickled vegetables if desired. Garnish with sesame seeds.
7. Pack the bento, ensuring the tofu stays crispy and fresh.

The Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry Bento Box is a nourishing and flavorful meal that highlights the versatility of tofu and fresh vegetables. The crispy tofu provides a satisfying texture, while the vibrant vegetables add color and crunch. The savory stir-fry sauce ties everything together, making this bento both delicious and nutritious. It’s an ideal option for a quick, plant-based lunch that’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed at home, in the office, or on the go.

Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box

The Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Succulent grilled or pan-fried chicken is coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, creating a rich, glossy finish. Paired with steamed rice, fresh veggies, and a side of pickled ginger, this bento box brings together tender meat and vibrant sides for a delightful lunch. The versatility of teriyaki sauce makes this dish a favorite in Japanese lunch boxes.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (or rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup steamed broccoli or green beans
• 1 tablespoon pickled ginger

Instructions:

1. To make the teriyaki sauce, combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and garlic powder in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to glaze the chicken.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and slice it into strips.
5. To assemble the bento, place the steamed rice in one compartment, the sliced teriyaki chicken in another, and a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
6. Add a small portion of pickled ginger for an extra burst of flavor and color.
7. Pack the bento box tightly for a flavorful lunch.

The Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box is a simple yet flavorful option for a satisfying lunch. The sweetness and umami of the teriyaki sauce perfectly complement the tender, juicy chicken, while the steamed rice and fresh vegetables add balance and nutrition. This bento box is perfect for anyone who enjoys classic Japanese flavors and a meal that’s both filling and easy to prepare. It’s an excellent choice for a comforting lunch, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go.

Shrimp Tempura Bento Box

The Shrimp Tempura Bento Box is a crispy, light, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a lunch packed with crunch and freshness. Lightly battered shrimp are deep-fried until golden and served alongside steamed rice and a mix of vegetables like pickled radish and broccoli. Paired with a soy-based dipping sauce, this bento box offers a delicious combination of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

• 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup cold sparkling water (or ice water)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup steamed broccoli or asparagus
• 2 tablespoons pickled radish or other pickled vegetables
• Soy sauce, for dipping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the tempura batter by whisking together flour, cornstarch, egg, and cold sparkling water in a bowl. The batter should be slightly lumpy for a crispy texture.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
3. Dip each shrimp into the tempura batter, coating it lightly, and fry them in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels.
4. For the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment and arrange the crispy shrimp tempura next to it.
5. Add a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus, and pickled radish for a tangy contrast to the tempura.
6. Pack the bento box, including a small container of soy sauce for dipping the tempura.
7. Enjoy this crispy, flavorful lunch!

The Shrimp Tempura Bento Box is a satisfying meal that combines the lightness of tempura with the heartiness of rice and vegetables. The crispy, golden shrimp bring a wonderful texture to the bento, while the pickled vegetables and steamed sides balance out the meal with fresh and tangy notes. This bento is perfect for anyone craving a more indulgent yet still light lunch, and it provides a wonderful combination of crunch, flavor, and color.

Japanese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Bento Box

This Japanese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Bento Box offers a delicious combination of tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce, all served over steamed rice. The beef is thinly sliced and cooked with onions in a sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, resulting in a savory-sweet dish. This bento is a great choice for those who enjoy a protein-packed, flavorful lunch with a bit of sweetness to complement the beef.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb (225g) thinly sliced beef (sirloin or rib-eye)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (or rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup steamed green beans or spinach

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the thinly sliced beef to the pan and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sugar, grated ginger, and garlic powder to create the sauce. Pour the sauce over the beef and onions and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. For the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment and top with the beef and onion stir-fry.
5. Add a side of steamed green beans or spinach to complete the meal.
6. Pack the bento and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying lunch.

The Japanese Beef and Onion Stir-Fry Bento Box is a deliciously simple yet rich meal that brings out the savory-sweet flavors of the beef and onions. The soy-based sauce, combined with the sesame oil and ginger, creates a perfect coating for the tender beef, while the rice and veggies provide balance. This bento box is an excellent choice for anyone craving a protein-rich, savory meal that’s easy to make and enjoyable to eat. Perfect for a fulfilling lunch, it offers great flavor and nutrition in every bite.

Salmon Teriyaki Bento Box

The Salmon Teriyaki Bento Box is a well-balanced and flavorful option for a healthy and filling lunch. This dish features tender salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce, paired with fluffy rice and a side of crisp, sautéed vegetables. The delicate flavors of the fish combined with the tangy sauce make this bento box a favorite choice for those who love seafood with a Japanese twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (or rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli
• 1 tablespoon pickled cucumber (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey (or sugar), and sesame oil. Whisk until the ingredients are well blended to make the teriyaki sauce.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Once the salmon is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over the fillets and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the fish.
4. For the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment and the teriyaki salmon fillets in another.
5. Add a side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli to the bento box for a healthy vegetable component.
6. Optionally, include a small portion of pickled cucumber for a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon.
7. Pack the bento box tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.

The Salmon Teriyaki Bento Box brings together the richness of salmon and the sweet, savory depth of teriyaki sauce, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. The dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables, providing a balanced lunch that is both delicious and healthy. This bento box is ideal for those who love seafood and want to enjoy a flavorful meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for a lunch on the go.

Katsu Curry Bento Box

The Katsu Curry Bento Box combines two beloved Japanese comfort foods: crispy tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) and rich, savory curry sauce. This bento box is perfect for anyone who craves a hearty and filling lunch. The crispy pork cutlet is served with a generous helping of Japanese curry, along with fluffy rice and a side of fresh vegetables. The combination of textures and flavors makes this bento a standout.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless pork chops
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/4 cup peas or green beans
• 1/2 cup Japanese curry sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. To prepare the tonkatsu, season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Dredge each chop in flour, dip in the beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate pan, heat the curry sauce according to the package instructions or homemade recipe. If using store-bought sauce, it’s often ready to heat and serve.
4. For the bento, slice the tonkatsu into strips and place over a bed of steamed rice. Pour a generous amount of curry sauce over the rice and pork.
5. Add a side of steamed carrots and peas or green beans to provide a fresh, colorful contrast.
6. Pack the bento box tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.

The Katsu Curry Bento Box offers a combination of crispy, golden pork cutlet with rich, savory curry sauce, making it a perfect meal for those who enjoy bold, comforting flavors. The steamed rice and fresh vegetables complement the hearty main dish, creating a balanced and satisfying lunch. This bento box is ideal for anyone who loves Japanese curry or fried foods, offering a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for busy days.

Chicken Karaage Bento Box

The Chicken Karaage Bento Box features tender, juicy fried chicken marinated in a savory soy and garlic marinade, with a crispy, golden crust. This Japanese-style fried chicken is perfect for lunch, offering a burst of flavor with each bite. Served alongside fluffy rice, pickled vegetables, and a small portion of leafy greens, this bento box provides a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sake or white wine
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup potato starch or cornstarch (for coating)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup pickled radish or cucumber
• A handful of arugula or baby spinach

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sake (or white wine), grated ginger, and minced garlic. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
3. Coat the marinated chicken pieces in potato starch or cornstarch, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
5. For the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment and arrange the crispy chicken karaage in another.
6. Add a side of pickled radish or cucumber and a handful of leafy greens such as arugula or baby spinach for freshness.
7. Pack the bento box tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.

The Chicken Karaage Bento Box is a popular choice for its crispy, flavorful fried chicken and the savory marinade that infuses the meat with a deep umami taste. Paired with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, and fresh greens, this bento offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s an excellent choice for anyone craving a hearty yet flavorful lunch, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation of easy-to-make bento boxes.

Shrimp Tempura Bento Box

The Shrimp Tempura Bento Box is a delightful combination of crispy, golden-brown shrimp tempura served with fluffy steamed rice, a side of lightly seasoned vegetables, and pickles. Tempura, one of Japan’s most iconic dishes, is made by coating shrimp in a light batter and frying until crisp. This bento box is a great option for a delicious and satisfying meal, offering a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, from the crunchy shrimp to the refreshing vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup steamed broccoli
• 1/4 cup carrot sticks
• 2 tablespoons pickled ginger or pickled daikon

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, egg, cold water, and baking powder to make a batter. Stir until smooth but slightly lumpy.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
3. Dip the shrimp into the batter and fry them in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain the shrimp on paper towels.
4. For the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment, then arrange the shrimp tempura on top or beside it.
5. Add steamed broccoli and carrot sticks for a healthy vegetable side.
6. Include a small portion of pickled ginger or pickled daikon for an added tangy flavor contrast.
7. Pack the bento box and refrigerate until ready to eat.

The Shrimp Tempura Bento Box provides a crispy, satisfying crunch from the tempura shrimp, balanced by the mild flavor of steamed rice and fresh vegetables. It’s a fantastic choice for a lunch that’s both indulgent and light, offering a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The tempura shrimp adds a crispy element that pairs beautifully with the gentle sweetness of the rice and the refreshing crunch of the vegetables.

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bento Box

The Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bento Box features tender chicken thighs marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy steamed rice with a side of vibrant vegetables. This dish is full of umami-rich flavors, with the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce coating the chicken perfectly. Paired with colorful vegetables and rice, it’s a nutritious and satisfying lunch that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 cup steamed rice
• 1/4 cup steamed broccoli
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, honey (or sugar), and sesame oil to make the teriyaki sauce.
2. Marinate the chicken thighs in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, turning the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown. Baste the chicken with the marinade as it cooks.
4. While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli and shred the carrots.
5. For the bento, place steamed rice in one compartment, slice the cooked teriyaki chicken and arrange it on top or beside the rice.
6. Add the steamed broccoli and shredded carrots to complete the bento box.
7. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on the chicken for extra flavor and texture.
8. Pack the bento tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.

The Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bento Box is a delicious and satisfying meal, with tender, flavorful chicken topped with a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze. It’s complemented by nutritious steamed vegetables and fluffy rice, creating a well-balanced and filling lunch. This bento is perfect for anyone who enjoys Japanese flavors and is looking for a wholesome, flavorful lunch that’s easy to prepare.

Tamago Sushi Bento Box

Tamago Sushi Bento Box is a delightful lunch featuring sweet and savory tamago (Japanese rolled omelet) served as sushi, accompanied by a serving of steamed rice and refreshing vegetables. The tamago is prepared by carefully layering and rolling eggs, creating a soft, fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the vinegared rice. This bento is an excellent option for those who appreciate the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine, offering a balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup sushi rice (or short-grain rice), cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt
• 1/4 cup steamed asparagus or cucumber sticks
• 1 tablespoon pickled ginger (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with vegetable oil.
3. Pour a thin layer of egg mixture into the pan, swirling it to coat the bottom. Cook until the egg is just set, then gently roll it from one side to the other.
4. Repeat this process, adding more egg mixture and rolling each layer over the previous one, until all the egg mixture is used and you have a layered roll.
5. Once the tamago is cooked, let it cool slightly, then slice it into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
6. For the bento, place a bed of sushi rice in one compartment and arrange the tamago slices on top.
7. Add a side of steamed asparagus or cucumber sticks for a fresh contrast.
8. Optionally, add a small portion of pickled ginger for extra flavor.
9. Pack the bento box tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.

The Tamago Sushi Bento Box offers a light and delicate lunch, featuring sweet and savory tamago served over sushi rice. The tamago’s soft, fluffy texture complements the vinegared rice, creating a satisfying bite. Paired with fresh vegetables like asparagus or cucumber, this bento box provides a refreshing balance of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for those who love sushi or want to enjoy a lighter, more refined lunch.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!