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Delicious Ekiben: Japanese Railway Bento Recipe You Will Love

Ekiben: Japanese Railway Bento 駅弁

There's something truly special about enjoying a meal that reminds you of travel and adventure. Ekiben, the delightful Japanese railway bento, packs a variety of flavors and colors into one charming box, making it a perfect meal for your next picnic, road trip, or cozy night in. It's easy, quick, and oh-so-memorable!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients
  

For the Ekiben
  • 2 cups cooked rice preferably Japanese short-grain
  • 200 g grilled salmon or teriyaki chicken
  • 100 g pickled vegetables e.g., pickled daikon, cucumber
  • 100 g tamagoyaki Japanese omelette
  • 50 g edamame shelled
  • 1 cup seasonal vegetables e.g., steamed broccoli, carrots
  • 1 sheet nori cut into strips
For serving
  • soy sauce
  • wasabi

Equipment

  • Bento box or compartmentalized container

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the rice according to package instructions and let it cool slightly.
  2. Step 2: In your bento box, place a portion of cooked rice in one compartment.
  3. Step 3: Arrange the grilled salmon or teriyaki chicken next to the rice.
  4. Step 4: Add a portion of pickled vegetables in another compartment.
  5. Step 5: Slice the tamagoyaki and place it in the box alongside the other ingredients.
  6. Step 6: Include the shelled edamame and seasonal vegetables in separate compartments.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with strips of nori for a lovely finishing touch.
  8. Step 8: Serve with soy sauce and wasabi on the side, if desired.

Notes

For the best taste, enjoy your Ekiben fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat the rice carefully, as it can dry out quickly.