Bento boxes are traditional lunchboxes with several compartments. This type of lunchbox is popular in Japan for various reasons. For one, it offers portability and convenience. Aside from that, it is also an excellent way to add variety to your lunch. Plus, you can control the foods that go inside your body. Because of these benefits, bento boxes became the perfect option for busy people not only in Japan but around the world as well. So, how do you make a bento box at home? Here are some vegan bento box ideas you can try.
Foods to Include in Your Bento Box
Keep in mind that you can put any kind of food in your bento box lunch. However, experts recommend including nutritious foods for a healthy meal. Some of the best ingredients you can include are:
- Complex Carbohydrates: cooked rice, whole-grain bread or crackers, and roasted or boiled sweet potatoes.
- High-Protein Foods: tofu, tempeh, vegan meat, and hummus
- Fruits and Veggies: berries, grapes, sliced apples, broccoli, sliced carrots, and veggie chips.
- Healthy Fats: nuts, seeds, nut butter, and avocado.
Vegan Bento Box Ideas
1. Vegan Sandwiches
Sandwiches are some of the best vegan bento box ideas you can try. For instance, you can make a cucumber and vegan cream cheese sandwich using whole-grain bread. After making your sandwich, you can fill the other compartments with various veggie sticks, like carrot sticks. You can also include fresh raspberries for dessert. Of course, don’t forget to add some nuts for a complete meal.
Another great option is the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. You can also opt for various nut spreads or butter if you want a different flavor. Afterward, you can put some peas, edamame, and hummus to create a high-protein lunch. You can also include some cherry tomatoes and sliced fruits for a satisfying and satiating vegan bento box.
2. Tofu, Veggies, and Hummus
Aside from sandwiches, you can also pack your bento box with various healthy ingredients. The most common lunch idea you can try is tofu, veggies, and hummus.
As you know, tofu has a bland flavor. Still, you can make it appetizing by cooking it with soy or teriyaki sauce. Afterward, you can add sliced or steamed veggies, like broccoli or spinach. Aside from that, you can also include cooked rice or a slice of whole-grain bread to energize your body. Lastly, you can use the hummus as a dip for your bread and veggies.
Most of the ingredients in this vegan bento box idea are high in protein. As such, you will surely feel full and energized after lunch.
