15 Lunch Box Recipes Kids Won't Bring Home

9. Mild Rajma Rice Balls (Kid-Friendly)

Rajma rice balls rework a familiar dal-and-rice combo into a tidy, handable form. Mash soft cooked rajma (kidney beans) lightly into cooked rice with a mild seasoning of salt and a tiny bit of cumin. Form into compact balls or small patties that won’t fall apart. The texture is appealing—soft and cohesive—which helps prevent leftovers. These hold up well at room temperature for a school lunch but avoid long exposure to heat. They take about 30 minutes to prepare and can be rolled in toasted sesame seeds for a bit of grip. For nut-free and allergy-aware packing, check sauces and avoid peanut-based chutneys. A little yogurt dip or cucumber slices are great companions.