Easy and Delicious Bento Box Side Dishes: Simple Lunchbox Ideas
Introduction
Packing a bento box or lunchbox can be a daunting task, especially on busy mornings. The key to a successful bento is having a variety of tasty and easy-to-make side dishes that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. These side dishes should be quick to prepare, versatile, and able to stay fresh until lunchtime. In this post, I’ll share some simple and delicious bento box side dish ideas that will make your lunch prep easier and more enjoyable. These ideas will help you create a balanced and satisfying meal that’s perfect for work, school, or even a picnic.
1. Soy-Marinated Soft-Boiled Eggs
Soy-marinated eggs, or "ajitsuke tamago," are a popular addition to bento boxes due to their rich flavor and versatility. These eggs are commonly found in ramen but also make a great standalone side dish. To prepare, start by soft-boiling eggs—typically for 6 to 7 minutes—so that the yolk remains slightly runny. Once the eggs are boiled, place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier. The ice bath also helps the egg white stay firm, which is ideal for marinating. Next, prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, water, sugar, and minced garlic in a bowl. You can also add a bit of mirin or sake for additional depth of flavor. Place the peeled eggs in the marinade and let them soak in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a deeper flavor. The eggs will absorb the savory marinade, creating a delicious and satisfying flavor. These eggs are delicious on their own, served over rice, or as a flavorful addition to any bento box. The best part is that they can be stored in the marinade for up to a week, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
2. Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing
Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that’s perfect for bento boxes, and it pairs wonderfully with a simple sesame dressing. Spinach is packed with iron, vitamins, and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any meal. To make this dish, blanch fresh spinach in boiling water for just a minute to retain its vibrant green color and tender texture. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep the spinach from wilting. Once cooled, squeeze out the excess water from the spinach and cut it into bite-sized pieces. For the dressing, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, a bit of sugar, and a pinch of salt. You can also add a touch of rice vinegar for a slight tang. Toss the spinach in the dressing, ensuring each piece is evenly coated, and finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This light and refreshing salad adds a nice contrast to heavier bento items and is easy to prepare in advance. The nutty flavor of the sesame oil complements the earthy taste of the spinach, creating a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
3. Colorful Kimbap Fillings
Kimbap, or Korean-style sushi rolls, often contain a variety of fillings that can also be served as standalone side dishes in a bento box. The ingredients typically used in kimbap are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any lunchbox. Consider preparing ingredients like tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet), sautéed carrots, pickled radish (danmuji), and spinach. These ingredients can be neatly arranged in the bento box, adding both flavor and color to your meal. The bright yellow of the tamagoyaki, the vibrant orange of the carrots, and the deep green of the spinach create a visually stunning presentation. You can also mix and match these fillings to create a vibrant and healthy rice bowl by placing them over steamed rice. This method is not only visually appealing but also ensures that your bento box is filled with nutritious and delicious components. These fillings can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient option for busy mornings.
4. Spicy Stir-Fried Fish Cakes (Eomuk Bokkeum)
Spicy stir-fried fish cakes, known as eomuk bokkeum in Korean, are a popular bento side dish that packs a flavorful punch. Fish cakes are a common ingredient in Korean cuisine, and when stir-fried with a spicy sauce, they become an irresistible side dish. Start by slicing fish cakes into thin strips. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the fish cakes until they are slightly browned. The slight browning adds a depth of flavor and a pleasant texture. Next, add a mixture of gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil, stirring to coat the fish cakes evenly. The gochujang provides a spicy kick, while the sugar balances the heat with a touch of sweetness. Cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and the fish cakes are well-coated. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. This dish pairs well with rice and adds a spicy kick to any bento box. The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors makes this dish a favorite among those who enjoy bold tastes.
5. Sweet Soy-Glazed Lotus Root (Renkon)
Sweet soy-glazed lotus root is a delightful side dish with a slightly crunchy texture and a sweet-savory flavor profile. Lotus root is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, known for its unique texture and health benefits. To prepare, thinly slice fresh lotus root and blanch it briefly in boiling water to soften it slightly. Then, sauté the lotus root slices in a pan with soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and a bit of water until the liquid reduces and forms a glossy glaze. The sugar in the glaze caramelizes, adding a rich sweetness that complements the savory soy sauce. The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to your bento box. The lotus root can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for busy mornings. The slightly crunchy texture of the lotus root contrasts nicely with the softness of rice and other bento components, adding variety to your meal.
Conclusion
Creating a bento box doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With these simple and delicious side dish ideas, you can prepare a balanced and flavorful lunch that’s easy to pack and enjoyable to eat. Whether you’re preparing a meal for yourself or for someone else, these bento box ideas will help you add variety and nutrition to your lunch routine. By incorporating a mix of flavors, textures, and colors, you can create a visually appealing and satisfying meal that will keep you energized throughout the day. Try these recipes out, and elevate your lunch game with minimal effort!
Make your lunch prep a breeze with these bento box side dishes and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal wherever you go!
