Japanese Fruit and Rice Roll with European Apple and Yoghurt

PREPARING

Rice Rolls

1. In a small bowl, mix the yoghurt with the honey.
2. Gently mix the apple strips with the yoghurt mixture.
3. On a piece of plastic wrap, spread the cooled rice in an even, thin layer, forming a rectangle.
4. Along one edge, arrange the apple strips with yoghurt and optional mint leaves.
5. Using the plastic wrap, roll the rice tightly into a log, similar to making sushi. Cut the finished roll into slices approx. 2 cm thick with a sharp knife. (Optional: You can wrap the roll in a nori strip before slicing).

Apple Rice Balls

1. In a bowl, mix half a cup of cooked rice with the finely diced apple, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
2. With damp hands, form small, compact balls.

Vegetables and Apple Decorations

1. Steam the carrots or cook them in a small amount of water until tender.
2. Using small cookie cutters, cut shapes (e.g., flowers) from the carrot slices. Cook the edamame (if using frozen).
3. Cut small shapes (hearts, stars) from the thin apple slices.
4. Immediately sprinkle the finished apple shapes with lemon juice to prevent them from browning.

Packing the Lunchbox

1. Line the bottom of the lunchbox compartments with small lettuce leaves to separate the ingredients.
2. Arrange the rice rolls in one section. Place the rice balls in another (you can put them in small silicone baking cups).
3. Place the cooked vegetables (carrots and edamame) and the decorative apple shapes in separate compartments.