15 Japanese Milk Bread Recipe Nyt They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Japanese milk bread, also known as "shokupan," is a staple in Japan and has gained popularity around the world for its soft and fluffy texture. This unique bread is made with a tangzhong or "water roux" method, which involves cooking a portion of the flour and water before adding it to the rest of the dough. This process helps to create a soft, moist, and bouncy bread that is perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed on its own.
Japanese Pork Katsu is a popular dish that combines crispy breaded pork cutlets with a savory sauce. The key to a perfect Katsu is using thin slices of pork and frying them to a golden brown. The dish is usually served with steamed rice and cabbage salad, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Here's a simple recipe to try at home.
Japanese pancakes, also known as souffle pancakes, are a light and fluffy treat that's perfect for breakfast or dessert. These pancakes are made with a batter that includes flour, sugar, eggs, and milk, and are cooked in a special ring mold to achieve their signature height. Top them with fresh fruit and maple syrup for a delicious and Instagram-worthy meal.
Main Ingredients: Water, Granulated Sugar, Strawberries, Ice, Sweetened
Kakigori is a popular Japanese dessert that consists of shaved ice topped with various sweet syrups or toppings. One of the most popular flavors is strawberry condensed milk, a sweet and creamy combination that's perfect for a hot summer day. To make this dessert, simply shave ice and drizzle it with condensed milk and strawberry syrup. Add some fresh strawberries on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Japanese cotton cheesecake, also known as souffle cheesecake, is a soft and fluffy dessert that's unlike any other cheesecake you've tried. This delicate cake is made with cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and flour, and is baked at a low temperature to create its signature texture. Top it with powdered sugar and fresh berries for a light and delicious treat.
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that's filled with a variety of ingredients. The word "okonomiyaki" translates to "grilled as you like it," which is why there are many variations of this dish. The base is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and can be customized with pork, seafood, or vegetables. Top it off with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
Sunomono is a refreshing Japanese salad that's made with thinly sliced cucumbers and a tangy dressing. The dressing is typically made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar, giving the salad a sweet and sour taste. This salad is perfect as a side dish or appetizer and pairs well with sushi or other Japanese dishes.
Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle dish that's loved all over the world. This comforting and flavorful dish consists of wheat noodles, broth, and various toppings, such as pork, chicken, vegetables, and eggs. Each region in Japan has its own unique style of ramen, making it a versatile and delicious dish to try. Don't forget to add some chili oil or spices for an extra kick of flavor.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These handheld snacks are made with seasoned rice that is shaped into a triangle or ball and wrapped with seaweed. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pickled plums, tuna, or salmon. Onigiri is a convenient and tasty snack that's perfect for on-the-go eating.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are a popular appetizer or side dish in Japan. These dumplings are made with a thin dough wrapper and filled with a mixture of pork, cabbage, and garlic. They are then pan-fried until crispy and served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. Gyoza is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Udon noodle soup is a simple yet comforting dish that's perfect for a cold day. This soup is made with thick wheat noodles and a savory broth that's flavored with bonito flakes, soy sauce, and mirin. It can be served with various toppings, such as tempura, tofu, or green onions, making it a versatile and delicious meal.
Japanese eggplant, or nasu, is a type of eggplant that's commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It has a long and slender shape and a slightly sweeter taste compared to other eggplants. It can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, fried, or simmered in a broth. Try it in miso eggplant for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
Soba noodles are thin buckwheat noodles that are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are usually served cold and can be topped with various ingredients, such as vegetables, tempura, or meat. A popular way to enjoy soba noodles is with a creamy and flavorful peanut sauce. This dish is perfect for a hot summer day and is packed with protein and veggies.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
Yakitori is a popular Japanese street food that consists of grilled chicken skewers. The chicken is usually marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, sake, and sugar, giving it a delicious and caramelized flavor. This dish is perfect for a barbecue or a quick and easy dinner. Don't forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch.
Japanese zucchini, or hakusai, is a type of squash that's commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It has a light and delicate flavor and can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, sautéed, or pickled. One popular dish is hakusai no miso-ni, which is braised zucchini simmered in a flavorful miso sauce. It's a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with any Japanese meal.
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Japanese Beef Steak
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sake, Water, New York Steaks
Japanese beef steak, also known as gyu-niku, is a popular and indulgent dish in Japan. It's usually made with high-quality Wagyu beef that is marinated and grilled to perfection. The marbling and tenderness of Wagyu beef make it a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Serve it with a side of steamed rice and grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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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 rice bowl dish that consists of pork cutlet, egg, and rice. The pork cutlet is breaded and fried until crispy, then topped with a sweet and savory sauce and a soft-boiled egg. The heat from the rice and the runny egg yolk creates a rich and delicious dish that's perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Baking Powder, Vegetable Stock, Eggs, Soy
Japanese sweet potato, or satsuma-imo, is a type of sweet potato that's popular in Japan. It has a purple skin and a creamy and sweet flesh, making it perfect for desserts and savory dishes. One delicious way to enjoy it is in sweet potato okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with grated sweet potato, bacon, and cheese. It's a unique and delicious take on the traditional okonomiyaki.
Japanese curry is a popular dish that's known for its rich and comforting flavor. Unlike Indian or Thai curries, Japanese curry is milder and sweeter, making it a favorite among both adults and children. It's usually made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, and is served with steamed rice and fukujinzuke, a pickled side dish. It's a hearty and delicious meal that's perfect for a chilly day.
Japanese milk bread, also known as shokupan, is a soft and fluffy bread that's commonly used for sandwiches and toast. The secret to its unique texture is the use of tangzhong, a roux made with flour and water that helps the bread retain moisture and stay soft. This bread is perfect for making French toast or enjoying with some fruit jam and butter.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
Yaki udon is a simple and delicious stir-fried noodle dish that's perfect for beginners in Japanese cooking. The noodles are cooked with vegetables, meat, and a savory sauce, making it a complete and satisfying meal. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients and seasonings. Don't forget to top it off with some sesame seeds and green onion for a pop of flavor and color.
The Importance of Tangzhong in Japanese Milk Bread
What is Tangzhong?
Tangzhong, also known as a "water roux," is a mixture of flour and water that is cooked until it becomes a thick paste. The paste is then cooled and added to the rest of the bread dough. This method was first developed in Japan in the 1980s and has since become a popular technique for making soft and fluffy bread.
Why is Tangzhong Used in Japanese Milk Bread?
Tangzhong is the secret to achieving the signature soft and fluffy texture of Japanese milk bread. The gelatinization of the starches in the flour during the cooking process creates a network of strong bonds, which helps to hold onto moisture and give the bread its soft and bouncy texture. This process also allows the bread to stay fresh for longer periods.
The Benefits of Using Tangzhong
Using tangzhong in bread-making has several benefits, including creating a soft and fluffy texture, improving the shelf life of the bread, and enhancing the flavor. The tangzhong method also helps to distribute the moisture evenly throughout the dough, resulting in a more consistent and uniform texture.
How to Make Tangzhong
Making tangzhong is a simple process that involves cooking equal parts of flour and water over medium heat until it thickens into a paste. The paste is then cooled and added to the rest of the bread dough, which can be kneaded by hand or with a stand mixer.
In Conclusion
The tangzhong method is what sets Japanese milk bread apart from other bread recipes. By using this technique, you can create a soft, moist, and bouncy bread that is perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Japanese milk bread for yourself?