Salmon and Brussels Bento

Salmon and Brussels Bento, a photo by sherimiya ♥ on Flickr.

I haven't used the magic round bento in a long while, and just realized it's probably too small for MisterMan now. But I think it might be appropriate for TinySprite now? The nice thing about this bento is that you don't really have to fill up each section to the top; most things will pretty much stay in their own compartment. It does look like I filled them up today though, doesn't it? Actually she got a piece of mustard roasted salmon (cut in two), some roasted baby potatoes, and roasted shredded brussels sprouts (yep, all in the same pan). Her typical pickled veggies fit in a second wedge, and the third holds a scattering of berries and mandarin segments. Well, that was easy! I really must start using this box more frequently again.

Black Beans and Pork Round Bento

Black Beans and Pork Round Bento, a photo by sherimiya ♥ on Flickr.

I found a recipe for slow-cooked black beans and pork loin that uses chili powder and coriander; it sounded so good I had to try it. I crossed my fingers that it wouldn't be too spicy for the kids. Success! I also added chopped onion, tomatoes and zucchini to round it out nutritionally. It came out sort of like a chili / stew; very tasty and hearty. Every time I use my crockpot I vow to do it more often. Is there anything better than walking in the door and realizing dinner is cooking itself? I scooped some over rice in the bottom bowl of this round stainless steel bento box I found in San Francisco a few weeks ago. I put some strawberries, grapes, carrots, peapods and cara cara oranges in the top tier.

The handled lid screws on top, securing both containers. This box resembles a tiffin, except that the screw top replaces the latches. I had my second-grader practice opening and closing it before I packed it to make sure he wouldn't have any problems. This set holds 800ml; there's also a 600ml and a 1000ml version that I saw. The round apple shape is a fun one, isn't it? Another MRB. Yay!