Orange Cream Soda BBQ Bento (Print Version)
Tender meatballs glazed in orange cream soda BBQ, paired with crisp veggies and rice for a tasty lunch option.
# Components:
→ Meatballs
01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup whole milk
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
→ Orange Cream Soda BBQ Glaze
10 - 2/3 cup orange cream soda (regular)
11 - 1/2 cup ketchup
12 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
13 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
14 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
15 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
→ Bento Sides
17 - 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
18 - 1/2 cup steamed broccoli florets
19 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
20 - 1/2 cup carrot sticks
21 - 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
22 - Optional: orange wedges for garnish
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, soak panko breadcrumbs in milk for 2 minutes. Add ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
03 - Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
04 - While meatballs bake, combine orange cream soda, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chili powder in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
05 - Add baked meatballs to the saucepan and toss to coat in glaze. Simmer 2-3 minutes until glossy and heated through.
06 - Place a portion of rice in each bento box. Arrange glazed meatballs, steamed broccoli, cherry tomatoes, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices alongside. Garnish with orange wedges if desired.
07 - Let cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Creates four complete balanced meals in one go
- Features a uniquely delicious sauce that will surprise your taste buds
- Uses simple ingredients with a creative twist
02 -
- Perfect for meal prep and stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- The unique glaze creates a wonderful balance of sweet tangy and savory flavors
- Each bento provides a complete nutritionally balanced meal