16 Japanese Leftover Rice Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Leftover rice is a common occurrence in many households, and can often be seen as a boring and uninspiring ingredient. However, in Japan, leftover rice is seen as a valuable asset in the kitchen, and there are countless delicious and creative recipes that make use of it. From fried rice to rice balls, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we will explore one of the most popular Japanese leftover rice recipes, and how you can elevate your leftover rice game in the kitchen.
One of the most popular dishes in Japan is Pork Katsu, a crispy and juicy pork cutlet that is usually served with a side of rice and a tangy sauce. This dish is a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
To make this dish, you will need pork loin or pork tenderloin, panko breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, and oil for frying. The key to achieving a crispy texture is to double coat the pork with the flour and egg mixture. Serve it with a side of shredded cabbage and Katsu sauce for an authentic taste.
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Hibachi-Style Japanese Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Liquid
For a flavorful and satisfying meal, try making Hibachi-Style Japanese Fried Rice at home. This dish is a staple in Japanese steakhouse restaurants, and now you can recreate it in your own kitchen. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to use day-old rice and a piping hot wok.
To make this dish, you will need cooked rice, eggs, onion, carrots, peas, soy sauce, and sesame oil. You can also add diced chicken or shrimp for some protein. The key to achieving the authentic hibachi flavor is to use Japanese soy sauce and mirin in the seasoning.
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Chicken Teriyaki
Main Ingredients: Sake, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Light Brown Sugar, Fresh
Chicken Teriyaki is a classic Japanese dish that is loved by many for its sweet and savory flavor. This dish is made by marinating chicken in a teriyaki sauce and grilling or broiling it until it is cooked through. The dish is then served over a bed of rice and topped with sesame seeds and green onions.
The key to achieving tender and juicy chicken is to marinate it for at least an hour. You can also add some garlic or ginger to the marinade for an extra kick of flavor. Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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Japanese Salmon Avocado Rice Bowls
Main Ingredients: Rice, Avocado, Smoked Salmon, Cucumbers, Nori Seaweed
For a healthy and delicious lunch or dinner option, try making Japanese Salmon Avocado Rice Bowls. This dish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and heart-healthy fats from the avocado. The dish is also visually appealing with its vibrant colors and textures.
To make this dish, you will need cooked rice, grilled or baked salmon, diced avocado, sesame seeds, and a soy sauce and rice vinegar dressing. You can also add some cucumber slices for some crunch. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a great option for a well-balanced meal.
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Easy Gyudon (Japanese Beef Rice Bowl)
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Sugar, Mirin, Sake, Broth, Ginger, Onion
Gyudon is a popular Japanese dish that consists of thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in a savory broth, served over a bed of steamed rice. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to make at home. You can find thinly sliced beef at your local Asian market or ask your butcher to slice it for you.
To make this dish, you will need beef, onions, dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese dashi broth and mirin in the seasoning. Serve this dish with a side of pickled ginger for an extra burst of flavor.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a convenient and portable snack or meal that is loved by many. These rice balls are made by shaping seasoned rice into a triangle or round shape and wrapping it with a sheet of seaweed. You can fill the rice balls with a variety of ingredients, such as umeboshi (pickled plum), tuna, or salmon.
To make this dish, you will need cooked rice, rice seasoning, and sheets of nori. You can also add some filling of your choice. Onigiri is a great option for a quick and easy snack or lunch on the go.
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Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet and Egg Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko
Katsudon is a popular Japanese dish that consists of a breaded and fried pork cutlet, served over a bed of rice and topped with a runny egg and savory sauce. This dish is a perfect combination of crispy and tender textures, and it is also visually appealing with its vibrant colors.
To make this dish, you will need pork loin or pork tenderloin, panko breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, and oil for frying. The key to achieving a crispy texture is to double coat the pork with the flour and egg mixture. Serve it with a side of shredded cabbage and a tonkatsu sauce for an authentic taste.
Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish that consists of a breaded and fried pork cutlet. This dish is often served with shredded cabbage, rice, and a tonkatsu sauce. The key to achieving a crispy and juicy pork cutlet is to use panko breadcrumbs and fry it in hot oil until it is golden brown.
To make this dish, you will need pork loin or pork tenderloin, panko breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, and oil for frying. Serve it with a side of shredded cabbage and a tonkatsu sauce for an authentic taste.
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Japanese Salmon Bowl
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Rice Wine Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Chilli Sauce
If you are looking for a quick and easy meal that is also healthy and delicious, try making a Japanese Salmon Bowl. This dish is made by topping a bed of rice with grilled or baked salmon and a variety of vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, and avocado.
To make this dish, you will need cooked rice, grilled or baked salmon, diced vegetables, and a soy sauce and rice vinegar dressing. You can also add some sesame seeds for an extra crunch. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a great option for a well-balanced meal.
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Gyudon (Japanese Beef & Rice Bowls)
Main Ingredients: Neutral Oil, Onions, Beef, Sugar, Mirin, Soy Sauce
Gyudon is a popular Japanese dish that consists of thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in a savory broth, served over a bed of steamed rice. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to make at home. You can find thinly sliced beef at your local Asian market or ask your butcher to slice it for you.
To make this dish, you will need beef, onions, dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese dashi broth and mirin in the seasoning. Serve this dish with a side of pickled ginger for an extra burst of flavor.
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Japanese Farm-Style Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Main Ingredients: Teriyaki, Portobellos, Chicken Thighs, Shitake
This dish is a twist on the classic teriyaki chicken, where the chicken is grilled instead of being cooked in a pan. This adds a smoky flavor to the dish, making it even more delicious. The chicken is then served over a bed of rice and topped with a soy sauce and rice vinegar dressing and green onions.
To make this dish, you will need chicken, soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, garlic, ginger, and oil for grilling. The key to achieving tender and juicy chicken is to marinate it for at least an hour. Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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Japanese Beef Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Water, Dried Kombu, Bonita, Yellow Onion, Red Onion
This dish is similar to Gyudon, but instead of using thinly sliced beef, it uses ground beef. This makes it an even easier and quicker meal to make. The beef is cooked in a savory broth and served over a bed of rice, topped with green onions and pickled ginger.
To make this dish, you will need ground beef, onions, dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese dashi broth and mirin in the seasoning. Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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Japanese Pickled Ginger for Sushi
Main Ingredients: Ginger, Rice, Sugar, Salt, Vinegar
If you love sushi, then you know that pickled ginger is the perfect palate cleanser between bites. Did you know that you can easily make your own pickled ginger at home? All you need is ginger, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
To make this dish, you will need fresh ginger, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese rice vinegar and pickled ginger slices for a tangy and slightly spicy taste. Serve this pickled ginger with your favorite sushi rolls for a delicious and homemade touch.
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Gomoku Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Lotus Roots, Carrot, Aburaage, Dried Shiitake
Gomoku Gohan is a popular Japanese dish that consists of rice cooked with a variety of ingredients, such as mushrooms, carrots, shiitake, and chicken. This dish is easy to make and can be served as a main course or a side dish.
To make this dish, you will need rice, chicken, mushrooms, carrots, and dashi broth. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese dashi broth and umami seasoning for a savory and rich taste. Serve this dish as a main course or as a side dish with your favorite Japanese meal.
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How To Cook Japanese Rice With Your Pot
Main Ingredients: Rice, Soft Water
Cooking rice is a staple in Japanese cuisine, and it is an essential skill to have if you want to make authentic Japanese dishes at home. While rice cookers are popular in Japan, you can also cook rice using a regular pot and achieve the same fluffy and perfectly cooked results.
To cook Japanese rice with your pot, you will need rice, water, and a pot with a tight-fitting lid. The key to achieving perfectly cooked rice is to use the right ratio of rice to water and to let it steam for a few minutes after it is done cooking. With this simple method, you can enjoy fluffy and delicious Japanese rice with any meal.
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Japanese Curry With Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Carrots, Onions, Red
Japanese curry is a popular dish that is different from Indian or Thai curries. It is milder and sweeter in flavor and is often served with rice. You can make this dish with chicken, beef, or vegetables, but chicken is the most popular choice.
To make this dish, you will need chicken, onions, potatoes, carrots, and Japanese curry roux. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese curry roux and to let the curry simmer for a longer period for a richer taste. Serve this dish with a side of rice for a satisfying and comforting meal.
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GRILLED JAPANESE FARM STYLE TERIYAKI BOWL
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Portobellos, Shitake Mushrooms, Soy
This dish is a healthier and lighter version of the classic teriyaki chicken bowl. Instead of frying the chicken, it is grilled and served over a bed of rice and topped with a soy sauce and rice vinegar dressing and green onions. This dish is packed with flavor and is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
To make this dish, you will need chicken, soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, garlic, ginger, and oil for grilling. The key to achieving tender and juicy chicken is to marinate it for at least an hour. Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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Tofu Katsu (Japanese Vegan Steak)
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Oil, Soy Milk, All Purpose Flour
If you are looking for a vegetarian or vegan option for Katsu, try making Tofu Katsu. This dish is made by coating tofu with panko breadcrumbs and frying it until it is crispy and golden brown. It is then served with a Katsu sauce and a side of shredded cabbage.
To make this dish, you will need firm tofu, panko breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, and oil for frying. The key to achieving a crispy texture is to double coat the tofu with the flour and egg mixture. Serve it with a side of shredded cabbage and Katsu sauce for an authentic taste.
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Japanese Garlic Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Garlic, Spring Onions, Eggs, Salt
If you have leftover rice and are looking for a quick and easy meal, try making Japanese Garlic Fried Rice. This dish is made with cooked rice, eggs, vegetables, and garlic, and it is packed with flavor. It is also a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand.
To make this dish, you will need cooked rice, eggs, diced vegetables, and minced garlic. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is to use Japanese soy sauce and sesame oil in the seasoning. Serve this dish as a main course or as a side dish with your favorite Japanese meal.
Sushi rolls are a staple in Japanese cuisine and are now enjoyed all over the world. While they may seem intimidating to make at home, they are actually quite easy with a little practice. You can make a variety of sushi rolls using different fillings, such as crab meat, avocado, cucumber, and shrimp.
To make this dish, you will need sushi rice, nori sheets, your choice of filling, and a sushi rolling mat. The key to achieving perfectly rolled sushi is to use sushi rice and to spread it evenly on the nori sheet. Serve your homemade sushi rolls with wasabi, soy sauce, and pickled ginger for a complete experience.
The Art of Making Onigiri
What is Onigiri?
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are made by shaping cooked rice into a triangular or oval shape, and often have a filling in the center. Onigiri can be found in convenience stores, train stations, and even in home-packed lunches. They are not only delicious, but also incredibly versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as tuna, salmon, pickled vegetables, and more.
The Appeal of Onigiri
One of the main reasons why Onigiri is such a beloved dish in Japan is its convenience. They are easy to make, transport, and can be eaten on the go. Additionally, Onigiri can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. They can be made with different types of rice, fillings, and even shaped into different designs for special occasions.
Making Onigiri with Leftover Rice
Using leftover rice to make Onigiri is a great way to reduce food waste and create a quick and tasty meal. The key to making perfect Onigiri with leftover rice is to ensure that the rice is moist. You can achieve this by sprinkling a little bit of water over the rice and microwaving it for a few minutes, or by steaming it in a pot with a lid. Once the rice is moist, you can shape it into Onigiri and add your desired fillings.
Final Thoughts
Onigiri is a simple yet delicious way to transform leftover rice into a tasty and convenient meal. It is a great option for packed lunches, picnics, or as a snack. With its endless customization options, Onigiri is a versatile dish that can cater to everyone's taste buds. So next time you have leftover rice, don't let it go to waste - try making Onigiri and discover the deliciousness of Japanese leftover rice recipes.
