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'''Bento boxes''' are a practical and visually appealing method of packing and carrying a complete meal in a single, compartmentalized container. Originating in Japan, the bento tradition has expanded globally, with various styles and interpretations of these convenient and aesthetically pleasing lunch boxes.
==Origin and History==
The concept of bento can be traced back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333) in Japan when cooked and dried rice known as "hoshi-ii" was used for easy storage and transport. The modern bento box, as it is recognized today, began to take shape during the Edo period (1603–1868). The development of railways and the need for portable meals for travellers contributed to the widespread popularity of bento boxes.
==Components of Bento Boxes==
Rice:

White Rice: A staple in bento boxes, often shaped into onigiri (rice balls) or left as a bed for other ingredients.

Protein:

Grilled Chicken: Teriyaki or yakitori-style chicken is a common protein choice.

Sushi: Nigiri or maki rolls may be included for variety.

Egg: Tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette) or boiled eggs are popular protein options.

Vegetables:

Pickled Vegetables: Tsukemono, or pickled vegetables, add flavor and colour.

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and green beans may be lightly steamed.

Side Dishes:

Gyoza: Japanese dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
	'''Bento boxes''' are containers used for packed single-serving meals, especially in Japanese food culture. The word ''bento'' refers to the meal as much as to the box, although English usage often focuses on the container.

Edamame: Steamed young soybeans served with a sprinkle of salt.
	A bento usually combines a staple such as rice or noodles with protein, vegetables, pickles or fruit. The meal is arranged so it can be carried, opened and eaten without needing a full kitchen or table setting.

Garnishes:
	== Structure ==
	Many bento boxes use compartments to separate food. This helps keep rice, vegetables, sauces and proteins from mixing too much during transport.

Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled on rice or vegetables for added texture.
	Common components include:

Seaweed: Nori strips or seasoned seaweed sheets are used for flavor.
	* rice, noodles or onigiri;
	* fish, meat, egg, tofu or another protein;
	* pickles or dressed vegetables;
	* cooked side dishes;
	* small fruit or sweet items;
	* sauce containers or seasoning packets.

Sauce and Condiments:
	Bento does not have to be elaborate. A simple packed lunch can still be a bento if it is portioned and arranged for carrying.

Soy Sauce: For dipping or drizzling over rice and protein.
	== History ==
	Japanese packed meals have a long history. Bento became established in several public settings, including travel, theatre, school and work.

Wasabi and Pickled Ginger: Served alongside sushi or other dishes.
==Types of Bento Boxes==
Ekiben (Train Station Bento):
	''Makunouchi bento'' is associated with theatre intervals, while ''ekiben'' developed around railway stations and train travel. JNTO describes ekiben as regional train-station bento, often using local ingredients or local presentation.

Regional Specialties: Ekiben features local specialties and flavours, allowing travellers to experience regional cuisine.
	== Types ==
	Common bento types include:

Kyaraben (Character Bento):
	* '''Makunouchi bento''': a traditional mixed box with rice and several side dishes.
	* '''Ekiben''': station bento sold for train journeys, often linked to a region.
	* '''Kyaraben''': character bento arranged to resemble people, animals or fictional characters.
	* '''Home bento''': packed lunches made for school, work or day trips.
	* '''Convenience-store bento''': ready-made boxed meals sold in shops.

Creative Designs: Kyaraben features elaborately arranged bento boxes with food items shaped like characters, animals, or objects.
	== Practical Design ==
	A good bento is compact, balanced and easy to eat. Foods that leak heavily, spoil quickly or need reheating are less suitable unless the container and storage conditions are designed for them.

Makunouchi Bento:
	Presentation matters, but it should support the meal rather than turn it into a competition. Colour, shape and separation can make the food easier to recognise and more pleasant to eat.

Traditional Style: Makunouchi bento, often served during intermissions in traditional Japanese theatre, includes a variety of small dishes.
==Presentation and Aesthetics==
Colour Harmony: Bento boxes are designed with an emphasis on colour harmony and balance.
	== Global Use ==
	Bento-style lunch boxes are now used outside Japan as practical containers for portioned meals. Some are close to Japanese styles, while others simply use the compartment idea for sandwiches, salads, snacks or leftovers.

Visual Appeal: The arrangement of food items is often aesthetically pleasing, creating an appetizing presentation.
==Bento Etiquette==
Neatness and Order: Each component is neatly arranged in its designated section.
	== See Also ==
	* [[Tiramisu]]
	* [[Elote]]
	* [[Risotto_ai_Frutti_di_Mare]]

Compactness: Bento boxes are designed to be compact and easy to carry.
==Modern Usage and Popularity==
School and Work Lunches: Bento boxes are popular for packed lunches for students and office workers.
	== References ==
	* [https://www.britannica.com/topic/bento Encyclopaedia Britannica: Bento]
	* [https://web-japan.org/kidsweb/virtual/bento/bento02.html Kids Web Japan: The history of bento]
	* [https://www.japan.travel/en/guide/experience-japans-local-ekiben-culture/ JNTO: Ekiben culture]
	* [https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/market/dento_syoku/index.html Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan: Traditional foods in Japan]
	* [https://www.japanhousela.com/articles/thinking-inside-the-box-japanese-bento-cuisine-ekiben-kyaraben-school-lunch-daily-life/ Japan House Los Angeles: Japanese bento culture]

Cultural Symbol: Bento boxes are considered a cultural symbol of the artistry and balance found in Japanese cuisine.
	[[Category:Food]]
	[[Category:Japanese cuisine]]