Let’s make a bento box together! You can find most of these ingredients from a local Japanese market. Totoro is one of the most iconic Ghibli films and is loved all across the world. It was one of my favorite movies growing up so it definitely holds a special and nostalgic place in my heart (especially cause I have an older sister and I was a little brat like Mei, haha). Probably the most iconic food in Totoro was the corn, but this bento comes in at a close second. What is bento (弁当)? Begin by cooking your shortgrain rice until fluffy. Place the cooked rice in the bento box about 1/2 way leaving room for the delicious toppings

Sakura denbu is a sweet and savory fish condiment made of red sugar and bonito fish flakes. It's a type of furikake, a traditional Japanese topping used to add flavor and texture to dishes like onigiri rice balls and various sides. Sakura denbu is perhaps the most iconic furikake variety and can be easily found in most Japanese food stores or supermarkets all around the world. Steam or microwave your edamame. You can find edamame frozen in a pinch. Pop the edamame out of the pods after they are cooked and neatly arrange on one quarter side of the bento. Traditional Japanese bento boxes are usually eaten cold, although this is not a rule. The contents of the bento box can be cooked the night before or early in the morning, then placed in the fridge until it's time to eat. Best Bento Lunch Boxes for KidsSHISHAMO– Shishamo are small, silver fish that are native to Hokkaido, Japan. They are often served whole and are typically roasted or pan-fried. Similar small fish can be found at most markets. Use a variety of colours and textures in your bento to make it visually appealing as well as delicious.

Cut vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces so they'll fit nicely into the compartments of your bento box. Bento boxes direct from Japan! Present your lunch beautifully – at home or on the go – with our range of Japanese bento boxes. Edamame beans can be spicy, salty, or sweet depending on seasoning added during preparation. Edamame is usually served in its pod but can also be shelled for easier eating. Nutritionally, edamame are high in protein and dietary fiber as well as many vitamins and minerals.