When it comes to comfort food, few cuisines can rival the hearty and delicious world of Japanese cooking. At the heart of many a Japanese meal is a bowl of steaming hot rice, served alongside a variety of flavorsome dishes. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering Japanese recipes that feature rice as the star of the show.
From classic dishes like Teriyaki chicken donburi and beef gyudon to more modern takes on sushi and ramen-inspired bowls, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your mealtime routine, these recipes are sure to bring a taste of Japan into your kitchen.
Japanese Chicken Teriyaki Donburi
Enjoy a flavorful and filling bowl of chicken teriyaki donburi, a popular Japanese dish that combines juicy chicken with savory sauce and hearty rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or pan-fry the chicken until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
5. Brush the teriyaki sauce mixture onto the cooked chicken during the last minute of cooking.
6. Assemble the donburi by placing the cooked rice in a bowl, topping with the glazed chicken, and garnishing with green onions and cucumber.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl with Sushi Rice
Discover the refreshing flavors of Hawaii with this easy-to-make Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl, featuring tender tuna marinated in a spicy sauce and served over fluffy sushi rice.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade tuna, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped green onions for garnish
– Cooked sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha sauce, and garlic.
2. Add the tuna pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the poke bowls by placing a scoop of cooked sushi rice in the bottom, followed by a portion of marinated tuna.
5. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and thinly sliced scallions (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on marinade time)
Classic Japanese Beef Gyudon
Gyudon is a popular Japanese comfort food made with thinly sliced beef and simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce, served over steaming hot rice. This classic recipe is a staple in many Japanese households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef broth)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (optional)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Cooked Japanese rice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the dashi broth, soy sauce, sake (if using), sugar, and ginger to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the beef to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the gyudon over cooked Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg on Rice)
This classic Japanese dish is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines the flavors of soft-boiled egg, savory rice, and soy sauce. Tamago Kake Gohan is a staple in many Japanese households and is often served as a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce heat and add eggs. Simmer for 6-7 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
3. Drain the eggs and rinse with cold water.
4. Slice the cooked eggs into halves or quarters.
5. To assemble, place a scoop of cooked rice on a plate, then top with an egg half or quarter.
6. Drizzle soy sauce over the egg and sprinkle with salt to taste. If using sake, add a small amount to the soy sauce for added depth of flavor.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Unagi Don (Grilled Eel Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese dish that combines the rich flavor of grilled eel with savory rice and sweet sauce, Unagi Don is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 piece of unagi (eel), about 12 inches long
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup Unagi Sauce (see note)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eel with soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Grill or broil the eel for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
4. Serve grilled eel on top of cooked rice, drizzle with Unagi Sauce.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: Unagi Sauce can be found in most Asian grocery stores or online. If unavailable, substitute with a mixture of equal parts soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar.
Japanese Curry Rice with Chicken Katsu
This classic Japanese dish combines the comfort of curry rice with the crispy goodness of chicken katsu. With this simple recipe, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux (available at Asian grocery stores or online)
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken katsu by coating the chicken breasts in flour, then dipping in eggs and finally coating with breadcrumbs and panko.
2. Fry the chicken katsu in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Cook Japanese curry roux according to package instructions.
4. Serve the chicken katsu on top of cooked Japanese rice and curry sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Takikomi Gohan (Mixed Rice with Vegetables)
Takikomi Gohan is a popular Japanese dish that combines fluffy rice with various vegetables and seasonings. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and stir-fry until softened.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oyakodon (Chicken and Egg Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Oyakodon is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken, savory eggs, and flavorful rice. With just a few ingredients, you can create this hearty bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (such as Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese cooking wine) or dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add eggs and scramble them with a spatula until they’re cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake or wine, and sugar. Pour the mixture over the chicken and eggs; stir to combine.
5. Serve the chicken and egg mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chirashi Sushi (Scattered Sushi Bowl)
This traditional Japanese dish is a flavorful and visually appealing meal that combines sushi rice, raw fish, and various toppings. With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious Chirashi Sushi bowl at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup sashimi-grade tuna or salmon, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced carrot
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: various toppings such as avocado, crab stick, or boiled egg
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Slice the raw fish into thin pieces and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
4. To assemble the Chirashi Sushi bowl, place a scoop of cooked rice in the bottom of a bowl.
5. Arrange the sliced fish on top of the rice.
6. Add diced cucumber, carrot, and pickled ginger around the fish.
7. Drizzle the soy sauce mixture over the ingredients.
8. Garnish with optional toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yakimeshi (Japanese Fried Rice)
A classic Japanese dish made with cooked rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein, Yakimeshi is a simple and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan.
5. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan; scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Omurice (Japanese Omelette Rice)
A popular Japanese comfort food, Omurice (Omlet-Rice) is a simple and satisfying dish that combines fluffy omelette, savory beef, and creamy rice. This recipe yields a delicious and filling meal perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), cooked to desired doneness
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: chopped green onions and grated cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Beat eggs in a bowl until well-mixed.
2. Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in eggs and cook until edges start to set, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice on one half of the omelette and beef slices on the other half.
5. Fold the omelette over the filling and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Serve hot with optional garnishes.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Katsudon (Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Katsudon is a flavorful rice bowl dish featuring a juicy pork cutlet, savory sauce, and fluffy steamed rice. This simple recipe yields a delicious meal that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– Tonkatsu sauce (or homemade equivalent)
– Scallions and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pork cutlets by dipping each in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
2. Fry the breaded pork cutlets in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain excess oil.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions or personal preference.
4. Assemble the Katsudon bowls by placing a fried pork cutlet on top of a scoop of steamed rice, followed by a drizzle of Tonkatsu sauce.
5. Garnish with scallions and pickled ginger for added color and flavor.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon Ochazuke (Rice with Tea Broth)
Salmon Ochazuke is a traditional Japanese comfort food that combines the warmth of tea broth with the simplicity of cooked rice and salmon. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a soothing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 green tea bags (or 1 black tea bag)
– 1/4 teaspoon dried kombu seaweed (optional)
– 6 oz salmon fillet, sliced into thin pieces
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Brew green tea bags in 2 cups of boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Add dried kombu seaweed, if using. Let it steep for another minute.
3. In a separate pan, cook salmon pieces with soy sauce over medium heat until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked rice and tea broth in a bowl. Arrange cooked salmon on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Mushroom Rice with Truffle Oil
This aromatic rice dish is a perfect blend of earthy mushroom flavors and luxurious truffle oil. It’s an ideal side dish for special occasions or a comforting meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (shimeji, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh sieve until water runs clear.
2. Heat sesame oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, 5-6 minutes.
4. Add truffle oil and stir to combine.
5. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Fluff with a fork; season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Negitoro Don (Tuna and Scallion Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese rice bowl dish featuring fresh tuna sashimi, crispy scallions, and savory flavors. This recipe is a quick and easy meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 6 oz sashimi-grade tuna (fatty or bluefin), sliced into thin pieces
– 2/3 cup thinly sliced scallions (green onions)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: pickled ginger, wasabi, and/or furikake for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
2. Slice the tuna into thin pieces and set aside.
3. Heat sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add scallions and cook until crispy (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Negitoro Don by placing cooked rice in a bowl, followed by sliced tuna, and finishing with crispy scallions on top.
5. Drizzle soy sauce over the dish and garnish with pickled ginger, wasabi, and/or furikake if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Japanese Mixed Onigiri (Rice Balls)
This recipe combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist, creating a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal. With its versatility and customizable fillings, onigiri is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
– Filling ingredients of your choice (e.g., salmon, tuna, pickled plum, cucumber, carrots)
– Optional: sesame seeds or soy sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. While the rice is cooking, prepare your filling ingredients as needed (e.g., dice the salmon or tuna).
3. Once the rice is cooked, allow it to cool slightly.
4. Wet your hands with a small amount of water and shape the cooled rice into small triangles or circles, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
5. Place your chosen filling in the center of each onigiri, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the rice over the filling to form a triangle or ball shape, applying gentle pressure to seal.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on cooking time of fillings)
Hayashi Rice (Japanese Beef Stew Rice)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Hayashi Rice is a hearty and flavorful beef stew served over a bed of fluffy rice. This simple recipe yields a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups dashi broth (or beef broth)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, soy sauce, sake (if using), sugar, and black pepper. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Return beef to the pot and add dashi broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until beef is tender.
5. Serve stew over cooked Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gomoku Meshi (Five-Ingredient Rice)
This Japanese-inspired rice dish is a simple yet flavorful meal that can be prepared in no time. With only five ingredients, you’ll have a nutritious and satisfying meal ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine it with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake (or dry white wine), and sesame oil.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the soy sauce mixture.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Japanese Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines succulent shrimp with savory garlic butter and fluffy Japanese rice, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add soy sauce and sake (or wine) to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Serve cooked rice in a bowl, topped with garlic butter shrimp and garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kinoko Gohan (Mushroom Rice)
Kinoko Gohan is a classic Japanese comfort food that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with fluffy rice. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (or regular long-grain rice)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in soy sauce and cooked rice. Mix well to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine with these 20 mouthwatering recipes featuring rice as the star. From classic dishes like Teriyaki Donburi and Gyudon to innovative bowls like Spicy Tuna Poke and Yakimeshi, there’s something for every palate. Try Tamago Kake Gohan, a simple yet satisfying egg on rice, or get adventurous with Unagi Don’s grilled eel and Japanese Curry Rice with Chicken Katsu. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or an exotic treat, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
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