Global Cookbook Launches a “Bento Recipes” Feature

In recent years, Japan's "bento" has been receiving global attention as a dietary style high in nutritional balance, sustainability and practicality. As health consciousness continues to rise, bento is permeating a portion of lifestyles, mainly in Europe and the United States.

Against this backdrop, we launched a new feature page titled "Bento Recipes" at the end of March within "Global Cookbook," the recipe content section of our global English-language website. This feature introduces the appeal of bento—passed down as part of Japan's food culture—through recipes that can be easily prepared and enjoyed in everyday life outside Japan.

The page first covers "The Structure of a Bento" and "Steps for Assembling a Bento," carefully explaining the basic principles of bento. By introducing practical tips for successful packing—such as starting with larger foods, using divider vegetables or food cups, paying attention to color balance, and filling gaps with smaller components—the content is designed to be clear and approachable for overseas users preparing bento for the first time. In addition, the page offers a wide range of practical, everyday information, including the role of and how to select side dishes, different types of bento boxes, ideas for efficient preparation, and considerations for food hygiene.

A total of six recipes are featured, including classic bento such as "Chicken Karaage Bento" and "Teriyaki Salmon Bento," as well as options designed for vegan diets. Each recipe has been developed with consideration for ingredient availability outside Japan and a wide range of food cultures. Through step-by-step images and recipe videos, the content allows readers to intuitively understand both the cooking process and arranging techniques. All recipes are supervised by culinary researcher Yuko Ihara (Instagram: @iharayukoo) and reflect a relaxed, home-cooking perspective, embracing a bento approach that can be enjoyed with ease as part of everyday life.

Through this featured content, Kikkoman employs bento as a starting point to expand the joys of food, while supporting the health and wellbeing of people around the world.