Savory Bulgogi Rice Bento Box (No Bread!)
Hearty Bulgogi Rice Bento Box with Tender Beef
Introducing a special Bulgogi Rice Bento Box, made with rice instead of bread! It’s a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, packed with flavor and goodness.
Main Ingredients- 200g Beef Bulgogi Cut
- 1/3 Carrot
- 1/4 Green Onion
- 3 bowls Cooked Rice (approx. 600g)
- 5 Lettuce Leaves
- 3 Slices of Processed Cheese
Bulgogi Marinade- 1.5 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Cooking Wine (Mirin)
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp Plum Extract (Maesil Extract)
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1.5 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Cooking Wine (Mirin)
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp Plum Extract (Maesil Extract)
- Pinch of Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
When cooking the rice, use slightly less water than you normally would. It’s important to cook the rice so the grains remain distinct and fluffy. Adding about 0.5 Tbsp of olive oil during cooking will give the rice a nice sheen.
Step 2
To tenderize the beef, gently mix the bulgogi slices with plum extract and a little honey powder (or sugar). This step is key to achieving a wonderfully tender texture.
Step 3
While the beef is marinating, finely chop the carrot and green onion. Place the chopped vegetables in a bowl and add all the Bulgogi Marinade ingredients (soy sauce, cooking wine, minced garlic, plum extract, pepper). Mix well to ensure the marinade is evenly distributed.
Step 4
Cook the marinated beef over high heat for a short time. Keep stirring to prevent burning and to achieve a slightly crisp exterior – this is the key to delicious bulgogi.
Step 5
Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly. Then, mix in the Rice Seasoning ingredients (sesame seeds, seaweed flakes, cooking wine, sesame oil) until well combined. This adds a subtle nutty flavor and savory depth to the rice.
Step 6
Press the seasoned rice firmly into a rectangular bento box or mold, creating an even layer. Drizzle your desired amount of honey mustard sauce over the rice. The sweet and tangy flavor complements the bulgogi beautifully.
Step 7
Place slices of processed cheese on top of the rice layer. The creamy cheese acts as a binder, connecting the rice with the other ingredients.
Step 8
Generously layer the crispy cooked bulgogi over the cheese. A hearty portion makes the bento box more appealing and delicious.
Step 9
Finally, arrange fresh lettuce leaves on top of the bulgogi. Their crisp texture and refreshing taste help cut through the richness.
Step 10
Now, press the remaining seasoned rice firmly on top to create the second layer. Pressing down firmly ensures the bento box holds its shape neatly when cut.
Step 11
Let the bento box sit for a moment to set. Then, carefully cut it into desired portions. Arrange your beautifully made Bulgogi Rice Bento Box in a lunch container and enjoy your delicious, homemade meal!
