What is a bento box?
Bento box is a traditional Japanese food container or lunchbox, used for storing meals - a packed lunch, the bento - and snacks. Initially made from steam-bent wood, comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, and is usually equipped with multiple dividers, encouraging a colourful and conscious diet. The content of the boxes consists mainly of rice and its variations, paired with some protein-source and vegetables. Today, bentos possess world-wide popularity due to their practicality and diversity, as well as their environmental-friendly aspect.
What is a bento box?
Bento box is a traditional Japanese food container or lunchbox, used for storing meals - a packed lunch, the bento - and snacks. Initially made from steam-bent wood, comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, and is usually equipped with multiple dividers, encouraging a colourful and conscious diet. The content of the boxes consists mainly of rice and its variations, paired with some protein-source and vegetables. Today, bentos possess world-wide popularity due to their practicality and diversity, as well as their environmental-friendly aspect.
The history of the bento
Bentos constitute both a globally popular and essential part of Japanese culture. Throughout the centuries, the handy box was used to fulfill different tasks, thus reflecting the given state of society, and offering a glimpse into Japanese history.
The origins of the word can be traced back to the 16th century, the period of the country’s cultural prosperity. At that time, bento boxes were considered as a luxury item, purchased mostly by the affluent stratum of society. “Sageju” was a popular type of bento which was enjoyed during long walks to admire the seasonal wonders of nature, such as the blooming of the cherry trees (hanami) in spring or the falling leaves (koyo) during autumn.
The Edo-period (17-19th century) brought peace and progression for Japanese society, due to which even the common folk could afford to spend quality time outside, accompanied by their loved ones and a bento box. Food vendors were more increasingly to be found on the streets, and their supplies of sushi and tempura also contributed to the popularity of eating outside. Furthermore, even the art of theatre was no longer only the privilege of the elite: the lower class was also more and more frequently visiting plays and enjoying a special version of bento, the “Makunochi”, in the breaks between the acts.
By the end of the 19th century, the wide spread of railroad-infrastructure in Japan led to the formation of the "Ekiben", which is still one of the most well-known types of bento. What makes the "Ekiben" truly special is its local aspect: the boxes, which can be purchased mostly at train stations, offer significant regional dishes with local ingredients, popularizing both Japanese gastronomy, and (railway) tourism for people in and outside of the country.
Bentos in the present-day
Today, bentos occur in a variety of shapes and types: besides the original wooden boxes, there are also aluminium and plastic alternatives, which are compatible with heating the meals in a microwave. Also, the focus from the design of the bentos has shifted rather to their content: for example, many wives and mothers come up with creative ideas to surprise their loved ones with not only nurturing, but colourful and fun meals. The “Kyara-ben” is a perfect example of this, in which the food resembles cute animals or anime and manga characters.
Benefits of the bento
· its separated dividers enable bringing multiple courses without them touching, therefore keeping our food fresh and intact
· an environmental-friendly alternative instead of plastic bags, tinfoil and cellophane
· easy to wash and clean, ready to be used at any time
· encourages conscious, balanced and colourful eating habits
· can be used for not only storing hearty meals but also quick and light snacks
Did you know?
With the help of the bentos, we can not only express our love and devotion, but also our anger: "Shikaeshi Bento", or “revenge bento”, is a witty version of bentos through which we can let our partners know about our dissatisfaction. From unconsumable dry rice to nori sheets resembling a broken heart, the possibilities are endless!