Energizing Japanese Vegetarian Bento: A Nourishing Feast of Flavors

Discover this invigorating vegetarian Japanese bento recipe, perfect for an energizing breakfast or lunch. Featuring fresh ingredients, this colorful meal will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total) Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes

🍽 Servings: 2 servings

🔥 Difficulty: Intermediate

🌎 Cuisine: Japanese

Allergens

Soy (from edamame)

Ingredients

1 cup sushi rice 2 nori sheets 1 avocado 1 cucumber 1 carrot 4 cherry tomatoes 1/4 cup edamame 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons mirin Salt, to taste Fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Begin by cooking the sushi rice according to package instructions. In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar and mirin, warm gently, and set aside. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and mix with the warmed vinegar mirin mixture. Season with salt to taste.

Chef’s Insight

This dish is all about balance, combining carbohydrates from rice with healthy fats from avocado, proteins from edamame, and a medley of colorful vegetables. The rice vinegar-mirin mixture adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the portion sizes to fit your nutritional needs.

Substitutions

Use quinoa or brown rice for an alternative to sushi rice Replace edamame with cooked, shelled peas

Alternative Preparations

Transform this meal into a vegetarian sushi roll by using nori and rice as the base, and adding thinly sliced avocado and cucumber

Alternative Methods

Steamed rather than cooked rice for a lighter option

Best Storage Practice

Store separately: Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, vegetables in a sealed container or plastic bag. Keep nori sheets in their original packaging.

Shelf Life

Sushi rice: 2-3 days in the refrigerator Nori: 1-2 months in a cool, dry place Edamame: 5 days in the refrigerator

Plating Tips

Arrange the ingredients in small compartments or bowls within the bento box to create an appealing visual contrast of colors and textures. Garnish with freshly ground black sesame seeds and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 500 kcal per serving Carbohydrates: 80g Protein: 20g Fat: 15g (healthy fats) Fiber: 15g Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, iron, and magnesium.