Japanese Bento Box

Bento boxes direct from Japan! Present your lunch beautifully – at home or on the go – with our range of Japanese bento boxes.

Serve traditional sushi feasts in our traditional Japanese bento boxes, with the classic black and red design. Or bring fun to lunchtime with our unusual bento boxes in the shape of Japanese characters – like our favourite samurai bento box. Use boiled egg moulds to turn eggs into cute animals for kids' lunchboxes, or the heart maki roll maker for perfect heart-shaped sushi.

What are bento boxes?

If you've ever visited Japan and enjoyed their traditional cuisine, then you have most likely seen or even used a bento box. A bento is a single-portion takeout or home-packed meal and holds rice, fish or meat, with pickled or cooked vegetables, usually in a box-shaped container. Historically the original bentos were simple affairs, usually consisting of a few rice balls wrapped in bamboo leaves. Over time, the bento evolved to be more complex, with multiple courses and elaborate designs.

Today, bentos are commonly known as compartmentalised lunch boxes that were originally designed in Japan to be taken to work or school. A good bento should be well-balanced, with a variety of colours, textures, and flavours. It should also be appealing to the eye and easy to eat.

Quick Tips For A Successful Bento Box

Soak your rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to make it nice and fluffy.
Cook your rice in a ratio of 1:1.5 rice to water for perfectly cooked rice every time.
To get that nice shiny glaze on your meat, eggs, or fish, try using a little bit of mirin or sake.
Cut vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces so they'll fit nicely into the compartments of your bento box.
Use a variety of colours and textures in your bento to make it visually appealing as well as delicious.

What food is usually in a bento box?

A typical bento box meal includes rice, fish or meat, and one or more pickled or cooked vegetables. Staples such as soy sauce and wasabi may be included, as well as soup or tea.

The contents of the bento also vary depending on the region of Japan, but some common items include daikon radish, tamagoyaki (a type of omelette), karaage (fried chicken), and pickled vegetables. In addition to these staples, a side dish like chawanmushi or okonomiyaki may be included in the bento. In some regions of Japan, such as Tokyo and Kyoto, a typical lunch would consist mainly of rice with sides such as tempura.

Are bento boxes eaten cold?

Traditional Japanese bento boxes are usually eaten cold, although this is not a rule. The contents of the bento box can be cooked the night before or early in the morning, then placed in the fridge until it's time to eat.

Best Bento Lunch Boxes for Kids

Pack up lunch in a bento box that will make your little one smile, in one of our Japanese Bento boxes in a range of Geisha and Samurai characters in different colours. These neat stacked lunch boxes have three compartments so you can keep school lunch separated – or split out sweet and savoury snacks. Add a pair of travel chopsticks and a sachet of instant miso soup to complete your bento box.

Searching for ideas for lunch? Browse a huge range of Japanese ingredients here to complete your perfect bento meal. Find more Japanese tableware.

Japanese bento boxes are a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, providing a balanced and visually appealing way to enjoy a variety of foods in a single meal. Whether you’re packing a school lunch, preparing a work meal, or organizing a family dinner, the Japanese bento box offers both practicality and creativity.

What is a Bento Box?

A bento box is a portable meal commonly used in Japanese food culture. Traditionally, it contains a variety of dishes in separate compartments, making it easy to enjoy a balanced meal. Bento boxes often feature rice, vegetables, and meat or fish, all arranged attractively to appeal to both the eyes and taste buds.

Types of Bento Boxes

Classic Japanese Bento Boxes

Classic bento boxes are typically divided into several compartments. These compartments hold a variety of foods, such as rice, pickled vegetables, fish, and meat. The arrangement is designed to be visually appealing and balanced.

Bento lunch boxes are perfect for packing school lunches or work meals. They come in various sizes and designs, often with three or more compartments to keep different types of food separate.

Microwave Safe Bento Boxes

For convenience, many bento boxes are microwave safe, allowing you to reheat your meals without transferring them to a different container.

Essential Features of Bento Boxes

Compartments and Dividers

Most bento boxes feature multiple compartments. These dividers keep different foods separate, which helps maintain flavor integrity and keeps ingredients fresh.

Bright Colors and Fun Shapes

Bento boxes often come in bright colors and fun shapes, making lunchtime more enjoyable, especially for kids. These features can also encourage picky eaters to try new foods.

Bento boxes are available in various materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and bamboo. Plastic bento boxes are lightweight and affordable, while stainless steel options offer durability and are often microwave safe.

Packing Your Bento Box

A well-packed bento box usually includes rice or noodles, a protein source (like chicken, pork, or tofu), and a selection of vegetables. Aim to create a balanced meal with a mix of flavors and textures.

Bento accessories like boiled egg moulds, sauce containers, and dividers help organize and enhance your meal. These tools ensure that everything stays in place and adds a touch of fun to your bento.

You can pack bento boxes for various occasions, from school lunches to work lunches and even picnics. For school lunches, consider including a variety of small snacks and fruits, such as cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes.

Popular Bento Box Ingredients

Rice

Rice is a staple in many Japanese bento boxes. It can be served plain or with added flavors, such as furikake, a Japanese seasoning mix.

Vegetables

Vegetables are essential in a bento box. Include a variety of colors and types, such as green beans, carrots, and daikon radish, to make the meal visually appealing and nutritious.

Protein

Common proteins in bento boxes include grilled fish, chicken, pork, and tofu. These can be prepared in advance and added to your bento box for a quick, balanced meal.

Fruits and Snacks

Fruits like apple slices, grapes, and berries add a sweet touch to your bento. Additionally, snacks like edamame or potato wedges can be included for extra variety.

Bento Box Preparation Tips

Prepping Ingredients. Prepare ingredients in advance to make packing your bento box quicker and easier. Cook rice, roast vegetables, and marinate proteins ahead of time.
Using the Right Containers. Choose containers that are suitable for your needs. For example, if you need a bento box that will be eaten cold, ensure it is designed to keep food fresh and visually appealing.
Storing and Freezing. Bento boxes can be stored in the fridge or freezer. For meals that will be frozen, ensure that your bento box is freezer-safe to maintain the quality of your food.

Creative Bento Box Ideas

Japanese bento boxes offer a practical and enjoyable way to enjoy a variety of foods. With compartments for different types of food, colorful designs, and numerous accessories, they make meal packing both easy and fun. Whether you’re preparing a lunch for school, work, or a picnic, a well-packed bento box ensures a balanced and visually appealing meal. Explore the wide range of bento boxes and accessories available to find the perfect options for your needs.

How to Choose the Right Bento Box for You

Choosing the right bento box can make a significant difference in your meal preparation and enjoyment. With various styles and features available, it’s essential to find a bento box that suits your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect bento box, with options from Sous Chef’s extensive bento box collection.

Size and Compartments The size of your bento box should align with your portion needs. If you’re packing meals for work or school, consider a bento box with multiple compartments to keep different types of food separate. The Yumbox Original Lunchbox available at Sous Chef features five compartments, making it ideal for a balanced meal with various components like rice, vegetables, and protein.

Durability and Material Bento boxes come in several materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and bamboo. Plastic bento boxes, such as the Monbento Original Bento Box, are lightweight and practical for everyday use. For a more durable option, the Bento&co Stainless Steel Bento Box offers excellent durability and is microwave safe, perfect for reheating meals.

Microwave and Dishwasher Safe If convenience is key, opt for bento boxes that are microwave and dishwasher safe. The Bento&co Classic Bento Box is a great choice, as it is both microwave and dishwasher safe, making it easy to heat and clean.

Leak-Proof Features For meals that include sauces or soups, a leak-proof bento box is crucial. The Monbento MB Original features a secure lid that prevents spills, making it a reliable option for carrying liquids and dressings.

Colors and Patterns Bento boxes come in various colors and designs, allowing you to choose one that matches your style or preferences. For a sleek and modern look, the Kinto Day Off Bento Box available at Sous Chef offers a minimalist design in neutral tones, perfect for a sophisticated lunch experience.

Fun Shapes and Themes If packing lunches for kids, consider bento boxes with fun shapes and vibrant colors. The Yumbox Panino features an attractive design and is great for packing a variety of foods in a fun, easy-to-use format.

Portion Control Bento boxes with multiple compartments allow for portion control and variety. The Monbento MB Square features four compartments, which is ideal for packing a diverse meal with different types of food, such as a main dish, side vegetables, and a small dessert.

Versatility A versatile bento box can be used for different types of meals. The Bento&co All-in-One Bento Box is a versatile choice with removable dividers, allowing you to customize the compartments based on your meal needs.

Included Utensils Some bento boxes come with built-in utensils or compartments for cutlery. The Kinto Lunch Box Set includes a set of utensils that fit neatly inside the box, making it convenient for on-the-go meals.

Temperature Retention For keeping food warm or cold, consider bento boxes with insulation features. The Zojirushi Mr. Bento is designed to keep food warm for hours, making it perfect for packed lunches that need to stay hot until lunchtime

Read Reviews Before making a purchase, read reviews to ensure the bento box meets your expectations. Customer reviews often provide insights into the box’s durability, ease of use, and overall quality.

Choosing the right bento box involves considering your needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a practical option for daily use or a stylish design for special occasions, Sous Chef’s selection offers a range of choices to suit every requirement. By evaluating factors such as size, material, ease of use, and design, you can find the perfect bento box to enhance your meal preparation and enjoyment. Explore the variety of bento boxes available at Sous Chef and select one that aligns with your lifestyle and taste.