Deluxe Bento
Features a variety of items including teriyaki chicken, tempura, and assorted sushi rolls.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
The bento box, a single-portion takeout or home-packed meal, has a long history in Japan, dating back to the 5th century when dried cooked rice called *hoshi-ii* was carried in small bags. During the Edo period (1603-1868), elaborate bento became popular among the wealthy, often showcased at picnics and theater viewings. The modern bento, with its organized compartments and diverse contents, reflects both convenience and culinary artistry.
The bento box is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, representing more than just a meal. It symbolizes care, artistry, and attention to detail. Preparing a bento is often considered an act of love, especially when made for family members.
Presentation Matters
The arrangement of food within the bento box is carefully considered, aiming for visual appeal and balance. Different colors and textures are used to create an aesthetically pleasing meal.
Symbol of Affection
Making a bento, especially for children or a spouse, is a way to show love and care. It demonstrates attention to their dietary needs and preferences.
Seasonal Ingredients
Traditional bento often feature seasonal ingredients, reflecting the changing seasons and celebrating the freshest produce available.
Social Occasions
Bento boxes are commonly enjoyed during picnics, school events, and travel, providing a convenient and satisfying meal on the go.
The Deluxe Bento offers a diverse symphony of flavors, balancing savory, sweet, and umami elements. The teriyaki chicken provides a rich, sweet-soy glaze, while tempura offers a crispy, lightly battered contrast. The sushi rolls contribute fresh, vinegared rice notes and various seafood or vegetable fillings.
The teriyaki chicken is typically marinated and glazed with a sauce made from soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), sake, and sugar, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor profile. Tempura features lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables, delivering a delicate crunch and subtle flavors. Assorted sushi rolls showcase a variety of fillings, from raw fish (such as tuna or salmon) to cooked ingredients like crab or avocado, combined with vinegared sushi rice and nori seaweed. Soy sauce and wasabi are commonly used as condiments to enhance the umami and add a spicy kick.
Balance of Flavors and Textures
Aim for a variety of flavors (sweet, savory, salty, umami) and textures (crispy, soft, chewy) to create a well-rounded meal. The deluxe bento exemplifies this perfectly.
Food Safety
Ensure all ingredients are fresh and properly cooked or prepared to prevent foodborne illness. Keep cold items cold and hot items hot until ready to consume.
Presentation is Key
Arrange the food attractively in the bento box, using dividers or small cups to separate items and prevent them from mixing. A visually appealing bento is more enjoyable to eat.
Prep Ahead
Prepare components of the bento in advance to save time. Cook the teriyaki chicken, prepare the sushi rice, and chop vegetables the night before.
Use Quality Ingredients
The best deluxe bento boxes always use the highest quality ingredients you can find. Especially with raw fish for the sushi.
Explore additional Bento dishes and restaurants
Explore BentoDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Kamloops.
Explore KamloopsLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Canada.
Explore Canada