Hey there fellow foodies! I recently stumbled upon this amazing recipe for a bento japonais and I just had to share it with you all. Trust me, it’s not only delicious but also super fun to make. So grab your chopsticks and let’s get started!
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 cups water
- 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Nori sheets
- Assorted vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, avocado, etc.)
- Assorted proteins (chicken, shrimp, tofu, etc.)
- Soy sauce
- Wasabi paste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Rinse the sushi rice in cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed. In a small saucepan, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl and add the vinegar mixture. Stir gently to coat the rice and let cool.
Step 2: Prep the Ingredients
While the rice cools, chop your vegetables and proteins into small, bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a cutting board or in small bowls for easy assembly.
Step 3: Assemble the Bento
To assemble the bento boxes, lay out a nori sheet and sprinkle a thin layer of rice on top, leaving a small border at the edges. Arrange your vegetables and proteins on top of the rice in a decorative pattern. Top with another layer of rice and seal the edges of the nori to make a tight roll. Slice the roll with a sharp knife into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Add Some Flavor
Finally, add a small dab of wasabi paste and soy sauce, to taste. You can also add decorative touches like sliced radishes or sesame seeds. Pack the pieces tightly into a bento box and enjoy!
Voila, your very own homemade bento japonais. Now, isn’t that just delightful? Bon Appétit, mes amis!
