Lunch

Miso-Tahini Tofu Bento

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Miso-Tahini Tofu Bento
Colorful Miso-Tahini Tofu Bento with vibrant vegetables and aromatic rice.

Discover a lunchtime delight that combines the rich umami of miso with the smooth creaminess of tahini. This Miso-Tahini Tofu Bento is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal Japanese-inspired vegan meal for any occasion.

“Miso and tahini together create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.”

Ingredients

For the Miso-Glazed Tofu
  • 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
  • 3 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Tahini Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • Water, as needed to thin
For the Bento Assembly
  • 1 cup cooked sushi rice, seasoned with a bit of rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced into thin ribbons
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 handful of mixed greens (e.g., spinach or arugula)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Miso Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth.

  2. Marinate Tofu: Place tofu cubes in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the miso glaze over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably an hour, to absorb flavors.

  3. Cook the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

  4. Make the Tahini Dressing: In another bowl, combine tahini, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and maple syrup or agave nectar. Whisk well, adding water gradually to reach a pourable consistency.

  5. Assemble the Bento Box:

  • Divide sushi rice among bento containers.
  • Arrange marinated tofu cubes on top of the rice.
  • Add cucumber ribbons, julienned carrots, avocado slices, and mixed greens around the container.
  • Drizzle tahini dressing over the vegetables.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Indulge in this Miso-Tahini Tofu Bento as a nutritious and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine. Perfect for lunch at work or a picnic, this bento is not only delicious but also beautifully presented to brighten your day. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make this dish a unique culinary experience!

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