Bento from Toradora: a Lunchbox from Taiga's Kitchen

Bento from Toradora: a Lunchbox from Taiga's Kitchen

In Toradora, Taiga Aisaka makes Ryuji a disastrous bento — and it is one of the most touching moments of the romantic anime. But the recipe for a perfect bento exists, and we know it.

History and origin

Bento — a Japanese lunchbox — is an art form. In school anime a bento made by someone close to you is a gesture of affection. Taiga, despite her lack of cooking skills, tries to make something good for Ryuji — and that alone means a great deal.

Key ingredients

An ideal bento includes: rice (60% of the volume), protein (teriyaki chicken, tamagoyaki, katsu cutlets), vegetables (blanched broccoli, carrots, pickles) and a small dessert (fruit, cookies).

How to cook at home

The 3-1-2 rule for bento: 3 parts starch (rice), 1 part protein, 2 parts vegetables. Prepare components ahead and store separately in the fridge. Assemble the bento cold — hot food fogs the lid.

Try this recipe at home — it's much easier than it looks and will make you feel part of your favourite universe.