Gohan, also known as Japanese rice, is a staple food in Japanese cuisine. This simple yet versatile dish is a common accompaniment to many Japanese meals, often served alongside a variety of flavorful dishes such as sushi, teriyaki, and tempura. With its fluffy texture and subtle yet satisfying taste, gohan is an essential part of the Japanese dining experience. In this article, we will take a closer look at the traditional Japanese gohan recipe and discover the key ingredients and steps to making the perfect bowl of gohan.
Pork katsu is a popular Japanese dish that consists of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. It is often served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce and shredded cabbage. The crispy texture and savory flavor make it a beloved comfort food in Japan.
2of 19
Takikomi Gohan, Japanese Mixed Rice
Main Ingredients: Dried Shiitake Mushrooms, Kombu, Warm Water, Cremini
Takikomi gohan is a traditional Japanese dish made with mixed vegetables and meat cooked with rice. The ingredients are seasoned with dashi, soy sauce, and sake before being simmered with the rice. The result is a flavorful and hearty rice dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish.
3of 19
How to make Tamago Kake Gohan – Japanese Rice with Egg
Tamago kake gohan, also known as Japanese egg rice, is a simple and delicious dish made with rice, raw egg, and soy sauce. The egg is cracked over the hot rice and mixed in, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce. It is a popular breakfast dish in Japan, but can be enjoyed anytime of the day.
4of 19
Matsutake Gohan, Japanese Matsutake Rice
Main Ingredients: Water, Seaweed, Bonito Flakes, Matsutake Mushrooms
Matsutake gohan is a luxurious dish made with fragrant and flavorful matsutake mushrooms. The mushrooms are cooked with rice, dashi, and soy sauce, resulting in a savory and earthy rice dish. It is often served during the fall season when matsutake mushrooms are in season.
5of 19
Japanese Mushroom Rice (kinoko Gohan)
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Shitake Mushrooms, Oyster Mushrooms, Water
Kinoko gohan is a type of Japanese mixed rice dish that is made with various types of mushrooms. The mushrooms are sautéed with soy sauce and then cooked with the rice, creating a rich and savory flavor. It is a great way to incorporate different types of mushrooms into a dish.
6of 19
Japanese Mushroom Rice (Kinoko Gohan)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Dashi Stock, Soy Sauce, Mirin, Sake
Gomoku gohan is a type of Japanese mixed rice dish that is made with a variety of ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables. The ingredients are simmered with the rice, creating a flavorful and hearty dish. It is a popular dish to make for special occasions or gatherings.
7of 19
Gomoku Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Lotus Roots, Carrot, Aburaage, Dried Shiitake
Japanese style pancakes, also known as souffle pancakes, are a fluffy and delicious breakfast treat. The batter is made with whipped egg whites, creating a light and airy texture. They are often served with butter, syrup, and fresh fruit for a decadent breakfast or brunch option.
Beef takikomi gohan is a hearty and flavorful rice dish made with beef, vegetables, and rice. The ingredients are seasoned with soy sauce, sake, and mirin before being simmered together. It is a great one-pot meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
9of 19
Japanese Beef and Rice (Beef Takikomi Gohan)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Wagyu Beef, Ginger, Oil, Soy Sauce
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that is filled with various ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and seafood. The batter is made with flour, grated yam, and dashi, creating a unique texture. It is often topped with a special sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes for added flavor.
Japanese 'cotton' cheesecake is a light and fluffy dessert that is made with cream cheese, eggs, and sugar. It is often baked in a water bath, creating a soft and delicate texture. The addition of whipped egg whites gives it a souffle-like appearance. It is a popular dessert in Japan and can also be found in other Asian countries.
Tamago kake gohan, also known as Japanese egg rice, is a simple and delicious dish made with rice, raw egg, and soy sauce. The egg is cracked over the hot rice and mixed in, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce. It is a popular breakfast dish in Japan, but can be enjoyed anytime of the day.
12of 19
Tamago Kake Gohan for Japanese Egg on Rice
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Eggs, Japanese Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil
Sunomono is a type of Japanese cucumber salad that is made with thinly sliced cucumbers and a tangy vinegar dressing. It is a refreshing and light side dish that is often served with meals. The addition of daikon radish and seaweed adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
13of 19
Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle dish that is made with wheat noodles served in a savory broth. The broth can be made with various ingredients such as pork, chicken, or seafood. It is often topped with sliced pork, green onions, and other toppings. Ramen is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is enjoyed all over the world.
Gyoza is a type of Japanese dumpling that is filled with ground meat and vegetables. The dumplings are pan-fried or steamed and served with a dipping sauce. Gyoza is a popular appetizer or side dish in Japan and can also be found in other Asian countries.
15of 19
Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Onigiri are triangular shaped rice balls that are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are made with rice and often filled with different ingredients such as salmon, tuna, or pickled vegetables. Onigiri are a convenient and portable snack that can be found in convenience stores all over Japan.
16of 19
Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Udon noodle soup is a popular Japanese dish made with thick wheat noodles served in a hot and flavorful broth. The broth is often made with soy sauce, dashi, and mirin. It can be topped with various ingredients such as sliced pork, green onions, and tempura. Udon noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying meal.
Japanese eggplant, also known as nasu, is a popular vegetable in Japanese cuisine. It has a mild and slightly sweet flavor and can be prepared in various ways such as grilling, frying, or simmering. It is often used in dishes such as stir-fries, curries, and stews.
Soba noodles are thin buckwheat noodles that are often served cold with a dipping sauce. In this dish, the noodles are served with a creamy and flavorful peanut sauce. It is a popular dish in Japan and can also be found in other Asian countries.
19of 19
Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
Yakitori is a type of Japanese skewered chicken that is grilled over charcoal. The chicken is seasoned with a sweet and savory sauce and often served with a sprinkle of salt or a squeeze of lemon. It can also be made with other types of meat such as pork or beef. Yakitori is a popular street food in Japan and is also enjoyed at izakayas (Japanese pubs).
The Key Ingredients
When it comes to making the perfect gohan, the quality of the rice used is crucial. Short-grain Japanese rice is the most commonly used variety, known for its sticky texture and ability to absorb flavors well. It is important to wash the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch and ensure a fluffy end result. Additionally, dash, a type of soup stock made from bonito flakes, seaweed, and dried fish, is often added to the cooking water to enhance the flavor of the rice.
Steps to Making Japanese Gohan
1. Measure out the desired amount of rice and wash it in a bowl, gently rubbing the grains between your fingers until the water runs clear.
2. Transfer the washed rice to a pot and add the appropriate amount of water. For a firmer texture, use less water, and for a softer texture, use more water.
3. Add a few pieces of dashi to the water, or substitute with a pinch of umami powder for a vegetarian option.
4. Allow the rice to soak in the water for about 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Place the pot on the stove and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
6. Let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed.
7. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 10 minutes to allow it to steam and become fluffier.
8. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork or rice paddle and it is ready to serve.
Get Creative with Your Gohan
While the traditional Japanese gohan recipe is delicious on its own, there are endless possibilities for adding extra flavor and ingredients to make it your own. Some popular variations include adding furikake, a Japanese seasoning mix, to the rice before cooking, or mixing in diced pickled plums for a tangy and colorful twist. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or mixed grain rice, for a healthier option.
In conclusion, gohan is a versatile and essential component of Japanese cuisine. With just a few key ingredients and simple steps, you can easily make the perfect bowl of gohan to accompany your favorite Japanese dishes. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with your own variations, gohan is sure to be a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal.
