The meaning of the word "bento" is known to every Japanese from an early age. Its history began with a small bag and bamboo leaves. So what is a bento?
This is the name of a portion of food intended for one person, much less often for several. It is packed in a special container (lunch box) made of plastic or wood. This is a convenient option for those who want a balanced meal at school or university, at work and on the road.
The composition of this complete meal depends on many factors. Residents of different regions of Japan have their own unique traditions and taste habits. Also important are the personal preferences of each person. After all, there are no comrades for taste and color, as they say.
How is a bento different from a regular snack?
Hurry, turmoil and the fast pace of life prevent many people from eating right. Morning sandwiches are eaten dry, a pie and coffee are bought on the way to work, and the way home runs through your favorite fast food chain.
In Japan, people have a slightly different attitude towards theirnutrition. Homemade food in a container holds a special place in their lives. Men say, "Show me your bento and I'll see what kind of woman you have." After all, the best set is the one that your beloved wife or mother made at home. Men at work may look with envy at a colleague's talented and eye-catching bento. Because this is an art and every girl from birth tries to master it. In addition to providing he althy food for their men and children, this creative cooking helps them express their individuality. Therefore, families attach great importance to bento.
In Japan, you can also find such variants of this dish:
- soraben served on the plane;
- Ekiben seen on trains.
A bit of history
Once upon a time, the Japanese used to keep special rice (hoshi-i) in a small bag. It was enough to put rice in boiling water to get a full meal. Used it dried straight out of the bag. Sometimes the rice was wrapped in bamboo leaves.
Over time, bags have become a thing of the past, and they were replaced by wooden boxes, which were called bento. In the era of the Edo dynasty, they were used everywhere, and then they completely became part of the Japanese culture.
For centuries, the people of the country collected unique recipes and were sure that such bento would surprise family members and guests.
Bento containers
These days, wooden boxes are a little less common. Most often, the container is made of plastic. The Japanese attach great importance to them along with food,which is put in them.
In stores you can find both disposable boxes and plastic containers, as well as expensive caskets decorated with precious metals and jewelry.
You can also find jubako with several tiers and compartments on sale. They are not used in everyday life. As a rule, Japanese people with such interesting bento can be found at holiday picnics or at a party.
Cooking
What is a bento in the modern sense? The list of necessary ingredients is now available to anyone who wants to prepare this useful kit. For a classic recipe, you do not need to spend a lot of money in the store. It is enough to buy rice, fish or meat, vegetables, herbs and your favorite spices.
Proportions:
- 4 pieces of rice;
- 3 pieces of fish or meat;
- 2 pieces of vegetables;
- 1 part spices and herbs.
This is the original bento recipe based on the principles of a balanced diet. Obviously, all foods must be fresh and properly cooked.
Recommendations
- All ingredients should be placed in the container only when they have cooled to room temperature. This keeps them fresh.
- It is better not to store bento in the refrigerator. According to the traditions of the Japanese, it should not be refrigerated. That is why it is better to choose those products that are able to maintain the temperature of the room.
- Sauces (such as soy sauce for sushi and rolls) should only be placed in the container in sealed packaging.
- The Japanese love to use bright and rich foods. The bolder the color, the more interesting the dinner looks. White rice contrasts very interestingly with bright carrots, herbs and red foods.
Residents of many countries have recently been actively adopting the tradition of making bento. It is incredibly convenient and useful for such working people who care about their he alth. Well, it is very pleasant for children in schools to feel the care of their parents, opening a new culinary masterpiece in their box every day. After all, some recipes are so surprising that it’s just a pity to eat such a bento.
