Shokado bento

Shokado Bento is a traditional Japanese meal that is served in a box, known as a bento box. The Shokado Bento is named after Shokado Shojo, a 17th-century monk, calligrapher, and painter who first used a divided box to carry his meals.

History

The Shokado Bento has its origins in the Edo period, a time when Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. Shokado Shojo, for whom the bento is named, was a monk who lived during this period. He is said to have used a lacquered box with dividers to carry his meals while traveling. This box was later adopted as a style of serving food, and it became known as the Shokado Bento.

Design

The Shokado Bento box is typically square and divided into four sections. This design is inspired by the shoji screens used in traditional Japanese architecture. Each section of the box is meant to hold a different type of food, allowing for a balanced meal that includes a variety of flavors and nutrients.

Components

A traditional Shokado Bento includes rice, fish or meat, and two kinds of vegetables. The exact contents can vary, but they are typically chosen to provide a balance of taste, texture, and color. The meal is often accompanied by miso soup and pickles.

Cultural Significance

In Japan, the Shokado Bento is often served at formal occasions and special events. It is also popular in high-end restaurants. The presentation of the meal in a divided box is seen as a form of aesthetic expression, reflecting the Japanese appreciation for balance and harmony.

See Also

• Bento
• Japanese cuisine
• Edo period
• Shokado Shojo

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