One of the main points about bento boxes is that apart from nourishing, the food should also be attractively served. The idea behind it is also of a very balanced, healthy meal. Traditionally, bento boxes were made for a 4:3:2:1 ratio of starch (rice), protein (meat/vegetarian equivalent), vegetables and desserts/condiments. Though this rule is not totally followed today and the contents may vary with different dishes and a complete spectrum of nutrients. A traditional bento consists of rice, meat or fish, and one or more pickled or cooked vegetables as a side dish. The bento containers ranges from disposable containers to hand crafted lacquer ware. In Japan, bentos are easily available at many places like, convenience stores, bento shops, department stores, train stations but it is still common in Japan to spend considerable time in producing an appealing boxed lunch.
The origin of bento boxes can be traced back to the old Kamakura period, when cooked rice was stored in a small bag. Eventually this developed into an art and today, it is difficult to find any women in Japan who has not developed expertise in this art. You will find many types of bento boxes, such as, Makunouchi bento, which is a classic style of bento with rice, a pickled ume fruit, a slice of broiled salmon, a rolled egg, etc. Noriben bento is the simplest bento, with nori dipped in soy sauce covering cooked rice. Shidashi bento is made in a restaurant and is delivered during lunch. This bento is often eaten at a gathering like a party. It is usually packed with traditional Japanese foods like tempura, rice and pickled vegetables.
