When it comes to Japanese cuisine, rice is a staple ingredient that plays a central role in many traditional dishes. From savory bowls to sweet treats, there are countless ways to enjoy this versatile grain. In Japan, cooking rice is an art form that requires precision and patience, but the end result is well worth the effort. Whether you’re looking for a classic sushi roll or a hearty bowl of curry rice, Japanese cuisine has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious Japanese rice recipes that showcase the country’s rich food culture. From simple and comforting to innovative and exciting, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Classic Japanese Sushi Rolls
Experience the art of traditional Japanese sushi-making with this simple recipe that yields delicious and authentic results. With just a few ingredients and basic steps, you can create mouth-watering maki rolls at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Nori seaweed sheets (about 8-10 sheets)
– Fillings of your choice (e.g. salmon, cucumber, avocado, carrot)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked rice with water, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Stir until combined and let cool to room temperature.
3. Cut nori sheets into desired sizes for your rolls.
4. Lay a sheet of nori flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Add your fillings in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using gentle pressure and even motion. Slice into individual pieces once rolled.
Cooking Time: None ( preparation time: about 30 minutes)
Takikomi Gohan (Mixed Rice)
Takikomi Gohan is a popular Japanese dish that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the flavors and textures of various ingredients. This recipe adds vegetables, mushrooms, and soy sauce to create a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Stir in soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and mix with the mushroom mixture.
7. Stir in frozen peas and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Onigiri (Rice Balls) with Salmon Filling
Onigiri, Japanese rice balls, are a popular snack or lunchbox staple. This recipe combines the simplicity of onigiri with the omega-rich flavor of salmon for a delicious and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Optional: nori seaweed sheets for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by mixing together the flaked salmon, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Shape the cooked rice into small triangles or spheres.
3. Flatten each rice shape slightly to create a pocket for the filling.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the salmon mixture in the center of each rice ball.
5. Fold the sides over the filling and press gently to seal.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (excluding preparation time)
Japanese Curry Rice
This classic Japanese dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy the warm, savory flavors of Japan in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux (available at most Asian grocery stores)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless chicken thighs or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (or regular long-grain rice)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
2. Add chicken or pork, cook until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add curry roux to the pan, whisking continuously as it melts into the oil.
4. Gradually add water or broth, whisking until smooth.
5. Return chicken or pork to the pan, stir to coat with curry sauce.
6. Serve over cooked rice, garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chirashi Sushi (Scattered Sushi)
Chirashi sushi is a popular Japanese dish that consists of sashimi-grade fish and various toppings served over a bed of short-grain rice. This recipe provides a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this iconic Japanese meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sushi vinegar
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade salmon, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small saucepan, combine sushi vinegar and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Once the rice is cooked, mix in the sushi vinegar mixture and set aside to cool.
4. Arrange the salmon, avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top of the prepared rice.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including rice cooking time)
Yakimeshi (Japanese Fried Rice)
Yakimeshi, a popular Japanese comfort food, is a flavorful and filling meal made by stir-frying cooked rice with various ingredients. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the rice mixture. Add soy sauce to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg on Rice)
A simple and comforting Japanese dish that combines a savory egg over a bed of warm rice, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or grated daikon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
2. Crack one egg into a small bowl and whisk gently with a fork. Season with salt to taste.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the eggs are almost set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Place a scoop of cooked rice on top of the eggs and drizzle with soy sauce to taste.
5. Repeat the process with the second egg and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Ochazuke (Tea Rice)
A comforting Japanese dish that combines warm rice with a soothing cup of green tea, Ochazuke is perfect for a quick and cozy meal or snack. This simple recipe brings together the flavors of Japan in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups hot green tea (preferably Sencha or Gyokuro)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: nori seaweed sheets, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the hot green tea according to package instructions.
2. Place the cooked rice in a bowl and add the hot green tea, stirring until the rice is well coated.
3. Add salt to taste and stir again.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with nori seaweed sheets, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 2-3 minutes ( preparation time)
– Instantly ready when hot green tea is added to the rice
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Ochazuke!
Katsudon (Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Katsudon is a mouthwatering combination of crispy pork cutlet, savory sauce, and fluffy rice. This simple recipe yields a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Cut pork into thin cutlets and season with salt.
2. Dredge pork in flour, then dip in egg mixture (flour-water-egg).
3. Coat with breadcrumbs and set aside for 10 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry pork until golden brown.
5. Serve with cooked Japanese rice, Tonkatsu sauce, and scallions.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Gyudon (Beef Rice Bowl)
Gyudon is a classic Japanese comfort food that combines tender beef, savory sauce, and fluffy rice in one satisfying bowl. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and some quick cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1/2 cup Gyudon sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef slices in a pan with some oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Gyudon sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Serve the beef mixture over cooked Japanese rice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Unagi Don (Grilled Eel Rice Bowl)
Experience the authentic flavors of Japan with this classic Unagi Don recipe, featuring succulent grilled eel served over a bed of warm Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb unagi (Japanese eel), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (optional)
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the eel pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Preheat a grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake (if using), and sugar. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the eel.
4. Grill or broil the eel for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Mix in a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the Unagi Don by placing the grilled eel on top of the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including preparation time.
Japanese Rice Pudding
A sweet and creamy dessert made with glutinous rice, perfect for warm weather or as a comforting treat any time of the year. This simple recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked glutinous rice (sticky rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder (optional, for green tea flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked glutinous rice and water. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is creamy.
2. Add sugar, salt, and matcha powder (if using). Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened to your liking.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Omurice (Japanese Omelette Rice)
Satisfy your cravings with this simple yet satisfying Omurice recipe, a staple of Japanese comfort food. This popular dish combines fluffy omelette, savory beef or pork patty, and flavorful tomato sauce, all wrapped around a bed of warm rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style rice (short-grain)
– 1/4 pound beef or pork patty, cooked and sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in eggs and cook until almost set.
3. Add cooked patty slices on one half of the omelette and spoon tomato sauce over it.
4. Fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
5. Serve the Omurice with hot rice and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Tempura Don (Shrimp Tempura Rice Bowl)
Get ready to experience a delicious fusion of Japanese flavors with this Shrimp Tempura Don recipe! This popular Japanese dish combines crispy shrimp tempura, savory rice, and flavorful toppings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cooked Japanese rice (about 1 cup)
– Tempura sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add soda water, stirring until smooth.
2. Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
3. Fry shrimp in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the Shrimp Tempura Don by placing cooked rice in a bowl, topping with fried shrimp, and drizzling with tempura sauce.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Mushroom Rice
A flavorful and savory side dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the comfort of Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (such as Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (shiitake or cremini), sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the soy sauce and cooked rice to the saucepan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)
A popular Japanese snack, Yaki Onigiri is a flavorful and easy-to-make treat that combines the simplicity of grilled rice balls with savory fillings. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a appetizer, this recipe will guide you through the process.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– Filling ingredients of your choice (e.g. salmon, tuna, pickled plum, or cucumber)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice and water until well combined.
2. Divide the rice mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
3. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
4. Place your chosen filling in the center of each disk.
5. Fold the rice over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape.
6. Brush the outside of each onigiri with soy sauce and sake (if using).
7. Grill the onigiri for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Japanese Rice with Miso Soup
This classic combination is a staple of Japanese cuisine, providing a comforting and filling meal. This recipe yields a flavorful rice dish paired with a rich and savory miso soup.
Ingredients:
For the Japanese Rice:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Miso Soup:
– 2 tablespoons dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together rice vinegar and sugar. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the vinegar mixture and let it cool.
3. For the miso soup, combine dashi broth, white miso paste, grated ginger, and soy sauce in a pot. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve the Japanese rice with a bowl of hot miso soup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Rice Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines fluffy Japanese rice with crunchy vegetables and a nutty sesame dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced carrot
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked Japanese rice, cucumber, carrot, red bell pepper, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding cooking time for Japanese rice)
Japanese Rice with Teriyaki Chicken
This classic Japanese dish combines flavorful teriyaki chicken with perfectly cooked rice, making it a staple for any meal or gathering. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying delicious and authentic-tasting Japanese cuisine in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Pour in teriyaki sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Combine cooked rice and teriyaki sauce mixture. Stir-fry until well combined and heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Rice with Pickled Vegetables
A classic Japanese side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone snack. This simple recipe combines fluffy Japanese rice with tangy pickled vegetables for a flavorful and healthy accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup mixed pickled vegetables (such as cucumber, carrot, and daikon)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and cook according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
2. Once cooked, mix in soy sauce and sake (if using).
3. In a separate bowl, combine pickled vegetables.
4. Serve Japanese rice alongside the pickled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of Japanese cooking with these 20 mouth-watering rice recipes. From classic sushi rolls to hearty curry rice and fried rice, there’s something for every palate. Try making onigiri (rice balls) with salmon filling or chirashi sushi (scattered sushi) with your favorite ingredients. For a comforting bowl, go for katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl) or gyudon (beef rice bowl). And don’t miss out on the sweet treats like Japanese rice pudding and omurice (Japanese omelette rice). Explore these authentic recipes and elevate your cooking game with the flavors of Japan!
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