18 Japanese Rice Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
One of the most important staples in Japanese cuisine is rice. It is a fundamental ingredient in many dishes and is often served alongside main dishes. However, the Japanese take their rice very seriously and have perfected the art of cooking it. In this article, we will be sharing a traditional Japanese rice recipe that will help you achieve the perfect, fluffy rice every time.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular and convenient snack in Japan. These delicious treats are made by shaping rice into balls or triangles and filling them with various ingredients. One popular variation is Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri, which combines the rich flavor of salmon with the nutty taste of black sesame seeds.
If you're new to making onigiri, don't worry, it's not as difficult as it may seem. All you need is some cooked Japanese rice, your desired filling, and some nori (seaweed) to wrap it in. The rice is traditionally seasoned with salt, but you can also add in some soy sauce for extra flavor. The salmon and black sesame filling adds a delicious twist to this classic snack.
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Edamame Dip with Homemade Japanese Rice Crakers...
Main Ingredients: Beans, Red Onion, Red Miso, Garlic Clove, Cilantro
Another popular Japanese snack is edamame, which are young soybeans that are boiled and seasoned with salt. But have you ever thought of turning them into a dip? This Edamame Dip is creamy and flavorful, and pairs perfectly with homemade Japanese rice crackers. The combination of the dip and the crackers makes for a great party appetizer.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri is a versatile snack that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. Some popular options include pickled plums, tuna, and vegetables. But if you're looking for something a little more unique, try making these Japanese Rice Balls with an umami-packed filling of ground chicken, shiitake mushrooms, and green onions.
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How To Cook Japanese Rice With Your Pot
Main Ingredients: Rice, Soft Water
Japanese rice is a short-grained rice that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It has a slightly sticky texture when cooked, making it perfect for dishes like onigiri. While you can use a rice cooker to make Japanese rice, you can also achieve great results by cooking it in a pot on the stove. Follow these steps to learn how to cook Japanese rice with your pot.
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How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
Making onigiri is a fun and simple process that can be done in just a few steps. First, you'll need to cook your rice and let it cool slightly. Then, you'll shape the rice into balls or triangles, making a small indentation in the center to hold your filling. Finally, wrap the onigiri in a sheet of nori and enjoy! Get creative with your fillings to make unique and delicious combinations.
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Tori Zosui—Japanese Rice & Chicken Porridge
Main Ingredients: Chicken Stock, Dashi Kombu, Coarsely Ground Black
Zosui is a comforting Japanese rice porridge that is often made with leftover rice. It's similar to Chinese congee, but with a Japanese twist. This version, Tori Zosui, is made with chicken and vegetables, resulting in a warm and hearty dish that is perfect for cold days. The addition of beaten egg gives the porridge a creamy texture.
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Zosui (Japanese Rice Soup)
Main Ingredients: Stock, Cooked Rice, Beaten Eggs, Shallots, Dashi Stock
Zosui, also known as ojiya, is a popular Japanese soup made with rice, vegetables, and dashi broth. It's often served as a light meal or a late-night snack. This version of Zosui uses shrimp and spinach as the main ingredients, but feel free to add in any other vegetables or protein you have on hand. Don't forget to top it off with some sesame seeds for added flavor.
Onigiri is a staple snack in Japan that can be found in convenience stores, train stations, and even at picnics. They are perfect for on-the-go snacking, as they are compact and easy to eat. This recipe for Onigiri Japanese Rice Balls uses a classic filling of pickled plums, which adds a tangy and salty flavor to the rice.
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Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sushi Rice, Sesame
Salmon is a popular protein in Japanese cuisine, and it's no surprise that it makes a delicious filling for onigiri. This recipe for Salmon Onigiri combines flaked salmon with mayonnaise and chopped scallions for a creamy and flavorful filling. Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for a well-rounded snack or meal.
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Zosui (Japanese Rice Soup – Ojiya)
Main Ingredients: Stock, Cooked Rice, Beaten Eggs, Shallots, Dashi Stock
If you're looking for a comforting and nourishing soup, look no further than Zosui. This version, also known as Ojiya, uses chicken as the main protein, but you can also use beef or pork. The rice adds a thick and hearty texture to the soup, while the ginger and garlic give it a flavorful kick.
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Seasoned Japanese Rice with Furikake
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Rice Vinegar, Furikake, Brown Rice, Water
Furikake is a popular Japanese seasoning that typically consists of dried seaweed, sesame seeds, and other flavorings. It's often sprinkled on top of rice or used as a seasoning for various dishes. This recipe for Seasoned Japanese Rice with Furikake is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of furikake. Serve it as a side dish or use it as a base for your favorite Japanese dishes.
Another classic and simple recipe for Onigiri, these Japanese rice balls are filled with umeboshi, or pickled plums. Umeboshi has a strong and tangy flavor that pairs well with the neutral taste of rice. You can also add in some bonito flakes for added flavor and texture.
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Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) | Vegan
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Sushi Rice, Rice Vinegar
If you're a vegan or looking for a healthier option, try making Yaki Onigiri, which are grilled Japanese rice balls. This version uses a vegan filling of shiitake mushrooms and tofu, but you can also use other vegetables and proteins of your choice. The grilling process gives the onigiri a crispy exterior and a soft and warm center.
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How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Nori, Veggie, Seasoning
If you're new to making onigiri, it may seem a bit intimidating at first. But with the right technique, you'll be making perfect rice balls in no time. This recipe breaks down the process step by step, making it easy for anyone to make delicious and authentic Japanese rice balls at home. Don't forget to wet your hands with water before shaping the rice to prevent it from sticking.
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Portobello Mushroom Katsu Curry with Japanese Rice
Main Ingredients: Portobello Mushrooms, Soy Yogurt, Breadcrumbs
Katsu curry is a popular Japanese dish that typically consists of breaded and fried meat served with a curry sauce. This vegetarian version uses portobello mushrooms as the main protein, which are coated in a panko breadcrumb mixture and then baked until crispy. The curry sauce is made from a blend of spices and coconut milk, giving it a creamy and flavorful taste.
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Sanshoku Bento (Tri-coloured Japanese Rice Bowl)
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Beef Mince, Ginger, Soy Sauce, Sake
Bento boxes are a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to enjoy a meal in Japan. They typically consist of a main dish, a side dish, and rice. This Sanshoku Bento, or tri-colored rice bowl, is made with three different types of rice: white, brown, and black. Each rice has its own unique flavor and texture, making this bento box a fun and delicious experience.
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Mushroom and Egg "Gyudon" Japanese Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: King Mushrooms, Yellow Onions, Sugar, Eggs, Neutral
Gyudon is a popular Japanese rice bowl dish that is made with thinly sliced beef, onions, and a sweet and savory sauce. This vegetarian version replaces the beef with mushrooms and adds in some egg for extra protein. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.
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Tuna and Kimchi Onigirazu aka Japanese Rice Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Nori, Tuna, Vegenaise, English
Onigirazu is a type of onigiri that is wrapped in a sheet of nori like a sandwich. It's a convenient and portable option for on-the-go eating. This recipe for Tuna and Kimchi Onigirazu adds a spicy and tangy twist to the traditional snack, making for a flavorful and filling meal or snack.
Last but not least, here is a classic recipe for Onigiri, the quintessential Japanese snack. This version uses a simple yet delicious filling of pickled plums and bonito flakes. The combination of salty and tangy flavors makes for a perfect snack or addition to your bento box.
The Importance of Rice in Japanese Cuisine
Japanese rice has been cultivated and consumed in Japan for thousands of years. It is the base of many traditional dishes such as sushi, onigiri, and donburi. The Japanese have a deep appreciation for rice and even have a word, "gohan", specifically for cooked rice. It is not just a side dish, but the heart of a meal. This is why mastering the art of cooking Japanese rice is essential for any aspiring home cook.
The Key to Perfect Japanese Rice
When it comes to cooking Japanese rice, the type of rice and the cooking method are crucial. The most commonly used rice in Japan is short-grain white rice, also known as Japonica rice. It has a sticky texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for sushi and other dishes. As for the cooking method, the Japanese use a pot called a "donabe" which is specifically designed for cooking rice. However, if you do not have a donabe, a regular pot with a tight-fitting lid will work just fine.
The Traditional Japanese Rice Recipe
To begin, measure out the desired amount of rice and rinse it in a bowl of cold water. Gently rub the grains together with your hands to remove any excess starch. Drain the water and repeat this process until the water runs clear. This step is crucial as it ensures that the rice will not become too sticky.
Next, add the rinsed rice to your pot and add enough water to cover the rice by about an inch. Let the rice soak for 30 minutes before cooking. This step allows the rice to absorb the water and cook evenly.
After soaking, turn the heat to medium-high and bring the rice to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice cook for 15 minutes without opening the lid.
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork or rice paddle and serve hot.
In Conclusion
With this traditional Japanese rice recipe, you can achieve perfectly cooked rice every time. Remember to use short-grain white rice and soak it before cooking for best results. Serve your fluffy rice alongside your favorite Japanese dishes and enjoy the authentic taste of Japan in the comfort of your own home.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
