Hearty and Wholesome Inari Sushi Bento Box
Crafting a Healthy and Delicious Inari Sushi Bento
This Inari Sushi Bento is made by draining the excess oil from the tofu pockets and simmering them in a dashi broth, then generously filling them with fresh vegetables. It’s a recommended bento for those on a diet or seeking a healthy meal. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe that anyone can easily follow!
Main Ingredients
- 2 bowls of warm cooked rice
- 10 pieces of seasoned tofu pockets (Inari age)
- Finely chopped aged kimchi (well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi recommended)
- Freshly julienned carrots
- Crisp julienned cucumber
Seasoning & Extras
- A pinch of black sesame seeds for nuttiness
- A drizzle of sesame oil for aroma
- A pinch of salt to taste
- Inari Simmering Sauce (refer to recipe below)
- A pinch of black sesame seeds for nuttiness
- A drizzle of sesame oil for aroma
- A pinch of salt to taste
- Inari Simmering Sauce (refer to recipe below)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the delicious simmering sauce for the tofu pockets! In half a cup of water, steep a piece of dried kelp (kombu) for about 10 minutes, then remove the kelp. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sake (or mirin), 1 tablespoon of corn syrup (or rice syrup), and a little sugar. Mix well. If you enjoy a slightly tangy flavor, you can add a splash of vinegar at this stage.
Step 2
Place the tofu pockets in a pot with the prepared simmering sauce. Gently press down with the back of a spoon while simmering to help the flavor absorb deeply into the tofu. Continue simmering over low heat until most of the liquid has evaporated. This slow simmering process is key to infusing the tofu with rich flavor.
Step 3
Now, let’s prepare the filling ingredients that will add wonderful texture and taste to your Inari sushi! I’ve chosen well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi for a pleasant crunch and tang. Freshly julienned carrots and cucumber are also added. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables, or even cooked ham or imitation crab sticks, according to your preference.
Step 4
In the warm cooked rice, combine all the prepared filling ingredients. Sprinkle a generous amount of black sesame seeds to enhance the nutty aroma. Mixing while the rice is still warm helps all the ingredients meld together beautifully.
Step 5
Add a drizzle of sesame oil to the rice mixture for a fragrant finish, and a tiny pinch of salt to balance the flavors. Taste as you go and adjust the saltiness as needed, aiming for a subtle seasoning. Gently mix everything together until well combined.
Step 6
Now it’s time to assemble the delicious Inari sushi! Carefully open each seasoned tofu pocket, turning the inner side out slightly. Spoon a suitable amount of the seasoned rice mixture into the pocket. Gently pinch the top edges together to form a neat sushi shape. Continue this process for all the tofu pockets to create your beautiful and flavorful Inari Sushi Bento Box!
