Bento, anyone? It's a Japanese approach to lunch!

 

 

Think globally, act locally. You've heard that before, and here's a new twist on that idea: Think Bento, buy Deli.

 

Bento boxes are a centuries-old tradition in Japan. They're lunch boxes, but they're also something extra.

 

They're an art form; they're an example of taking pride in doing little things well. Bento boxes have small compartments and each one is filled with some little snack or treat. All put together, Bento boxes make a great lunch—almost like having your own personal lunchtime buffet in a box!

 

Americans already do Bentos in a different kind of way. Ever seen those "lunchable" type meal packs for children? Those are simplified Bentos. So why not use a bit of creativity and make some truly outstanding Bentos? They'll inspire you or your child to make the most of a midday meal, rather than feeling like it's just one more chore to get through. The Japanese know how important good style is, and their Bento boxes are works of art.

 

Here are a few suggestions for creating lunch box Bentos. The August issue of Celebrate Cooking (available at all Brookshire's stores and online) features even more Bento tips.

• Roll slices of deli meats and stack; wrap in plastic.
• Use a cookie cutter to make fun pieces of meat and cheese; stack and put in a muffin paper.
• Make a wrap out of a tortilla, deli meat and deli cheese. Roll tightly and cut into segments.

Published 07/18/08