Totoro with leaf

This bento was both a big hit and a huge mistake. A-chan loved the totoro (who wouldn't love a totoro in their lunch, right?) but because of the sprouts she absolutely refused to touch any of the food on that side of the bento. Another bizarre preschooler roadblock that I should have anticipated but didn't have a clue. She ate everything on the other side. And once she got home and I picked off each and every tiny sprout for her, she duly inspected the totoro and curry before commencing to eat every bite. Ultimately I guess I can count this one as a win :)

On the left: Jasmine rice that is completely hidden by Japanese curry. Over the curry is a soy bologna totoro with mozzarella belly and eyes, nori accents. Spicy sprouts and a small leaf cut from a larger leaf of lettuce complete the design.

On the right: One Mantou bun (a plain steamed chinese bun, very yummy!), chickpeas on animal picks, babybel cheese, steamed broccoli and a huge strawberry.