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Delicious Tofu Teriyaki Bento Box

A hearty and high-protein meal made with tofu, fresh vegetables, and flavored Japanese-style rice, perfect for meal prep and a balanced diet.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 block firm tofu (pressed and sliced) Tofu serves as an excellent source of protein.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating) Helps create a crispy outer layer on the tofu when fried.
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., avocado oil for frying) Allows for frying at a higher temperature without burning.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami flavor) Adds depth of flavor to the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (adds sweetness) Sweet rice wine that balances the savory sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon sake (or water with sugar) Adds additional depth to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (balances the sauce) Contributes to the characteristic taste of teriyaki.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for topping) Adds nutty flavor and crunch.
  • 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (uncooked) Sticky rice that complements the dish well.
  • to taste furikake seasoning (for flavor enhancement) Japanese seasoning with dried seaweed and sesame.
  • 1 medium cucumber (thinly sliced) Adds crunch and freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for tanginess) Balances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for flavor) Enhances overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for veggies) Enhances taste without compromising health.
  • 1/2 teaspoon shichimi togarashi (for spice) Adds a kick to the dish.
  • 1 cup sugar snap peas (fresh) Provides sweetness and crunch.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) Adds color and juiciness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
  2. Slice the tofu into bite-sized cubes and coat them with cornstarch.
Cooking the Tofu
  1. Heat the neutral oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Teriyaki Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Pour this sauce over the cooked tofu in the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
Cooking the Rice
  1. Prepare the rice in a rice cooker according to package instructions.
  2. Fluff it with a fork once done and season with furikake seasoning.
Preparing the Vegetables
  1. In a small bowl, combine the cucumber, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and shichimi togarashi.
  2. Toss them to coat evenly.
Assembling the Bento Box
  1. Start by placing a scoop of rice in your bento box.
  2. Top it with the teriyaki tofu, followed by the seasoned cucumber, sugar snap peas, and halved cherry tomatoes.
  3. Garnish with sesame seeds.

Notes

This bento box is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If looking for gluten-free options, use gluten-free soy sauce.