Are you tired of the midday lunch slump and the endless cycle of takeout? Do you dream of healthy, delicious meals that are ready in minutes, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Then prepare to revolutionize your weekday lunches with the magic of frozen rice bentos! This convenient meal prep method allows you to enjoy a variety of satisfying and flavorful meals throughout the week, all while saving time and money. Forget soggy salads and lukewarm leftovers – frozen rice bentos offer a perfectly portioned, restaurant-quality lunch experience, ready whenever you are.
This article will guide you through a simple yet effective 5-day frozen rice bento meal prep plan, perfect for busy professionals and anyone who appreciates the convenience of pre-portioned meals. From selecting the right containers to mastering the art of freezing and reheating, we'll cover everything you need to know to create your own delicious and nutritious frozen rice bento boxes. Ready to ditch the daily lunch dilemma? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Rice cooker
- Microwave
- Tupperware
- Plastic wrap
- Kitchen paper
Ingredients
- Rice
- Shimeji mushrooms
- Maitake mushrooms
- Fried tofu
- Meat
- Cheap vegetables
- Eggs: 3
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Mirin: 2 tablespoons
- Sake: 2 tablespoons
- Dashi stock: 6g
- Ginger: a little
- Water
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Egg whites: 1 tablespoon
- White soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Ground sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Haregusa (Japanese parsley): 1 bag
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Seasoning
- Prepare the rice. Clean and cut shimeji and maitake mushrooms. Cut the fried tofu separately.
- Peel vegetables to maintain health.
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, dashi stock, and a little ginger water. Mix well.
Step 2. Cook Rice & Prepare Tamagoyaki
- Add the prepared vegetables, mushrooms, and fried tofu to the rice cooker in that order. Add the rice and cooking liquid.
- Cook the rice using the cooked rice setting of the rice cooker.
- Crack 3 eggs into a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon each of water, egg whites, and sugar. Mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture into a Tupperware container covered with plastic wrap. Microwave for 1 minute, stir lightly, then microwave for another 1.5 minutes.
- Remove from the microwave, still with the plastic wrap on. Carefully turn it over and shape it into an omelet. Wipe with kitchen paper to make it look neater.
- Make another omelet using the same method. Mix well to avoid sticky egg whites.
Step 3. Prepare Haregusa & Assemble Bento Boxes
- Chop haregusa, place on a plate, wrap in plastic wrap, and microwave for 3 minutes.
- Squeeze out excess water from the haregusa. Add 1 teaspoon each of white soy sauce, sugar, and ground sesame seeds. Mix well.
- Once the rice is cooked, divide it into 5 portions. Arrange the rice, haregusa mixture, and tamagoyaki in bento containers.
Step 4. Freeze for Later
- Cover and freeze the bento boxes.
Read more: 10-Minute Bibimbap Bento: A Quick & Colorful Korean Lunchbox Recipe
Tips
- If adding too many ingredients to the rice, ensure the cooking time is adjusted to prevent undercooked rice.
- To reheat, microwave for approximately 5 minutes.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How long can I store frozen bento boxes in the freezer?
Generally, frozen bento boxes can be stored for 2-3 months. However, for best quality and flavor, it's recommended to consume them within 2 months.
2. What's the best way to reheat my frozen bento boxes?
You can reheat your bento boxes in the microwave, oven, or even on the stovetop. Microwave reheating is quickest, but be sure to remove the lid and vent it to prevent steaming. Oven reheating is best for crispier components.
With a little planning and preparation, creating delicious and nutritious frozen bento boxes can significantly simplify your weekdays. Enjoy the convenience of grab-and-go lunches, knowing you're fueling your body with healthy, home-cooked meals. Say goodbye to lunch-time stress and hello to a happier, healthier you!