19 Japanese Roasted Eel Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!

Published on: Mar 26, 2024

In Japan, roasted eel (known as unagi) is a beloved and treasured dish with a long history. It is considered a delicacy and is often served on special occasions. The traditional method of cooking Japanese roasted eel involves grilling it over charcoal and brushing it with a special sauce, giving it a crispy and flavorful exterior while still remaining tender and juicy on the inside. In this article, we will take a closer look at the process of making this delicious dish and explore its cultural significance in Japanese cuisine.

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Unagi Don (Unadon)

Main Ingredients: Unagi, Sake, Steamed Rice, Soy Sauce, Mirin, Sugar

A classic Japanese dish Unadon in a Japanese lacquer bowl containing ...

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IG bento6ix… today’s lunch Unadon. Unagi don. Eel rice : r/Bento

Unagi don, or unadon, is a classic Japanese dish that features grilled eel served over a bed of rice. The eel is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce before being grilled to perfection. It's then placed on top of a bed of steaming hot rice and drizzled with more of the delicious sauce. This dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it's a must-try for any eel lover.

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Caterpillar Roll

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Soy Sauce, Sake, Sugar, Unagi, Avocados

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The caterpillar roll is a popular sushi roll that is sure to satisfy your cravings. It's made with avocado, cucumber, and crab, and is topped with thin slices of eel that resemble a caterpillar. The roll is then drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce that adds the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or just looking to try something new, the caterpillar roll is a must-try.

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Whole Roasted Eel

Main Ingredients: Eel, Salt, Oil

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If you're feeling adventurous, why not try a whole roasted eel? This dish is a show-stopper and is sure to impress your dinner guests. The eel is roasted whole, giving it a crispy skin and tender, succulent meat. It's then served with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you're looking to try something new.

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Unagi Kamameshi

Main Ingredients: Rice, Bamboo, Dashi, Mirin, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Mitsuba

Unagi kamameshi is a traditional Japanese dish that features grilled eel and rice cooked together in an iron pot. The eel is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce before being placed on top of the rice. The pot is then covered and cooked until the rice has absorbed all the flavors of the eel. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or when you're craving something hearty and comforting.

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Cold Ramen Noodles With Grilled Unagi

Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Mirin, Granulated Sugar, Ramen Noodles

Cold Ramen Noodles with Broiled Unagi - Cherry on my Sundae

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If you're in the mood for something light and refreshing, try cold ramen noodles with grilled unagi. The noodles are served chilled and topped with slices of grilled eel, cucumber, and a variety of other toppings. The dish is then drizzled with a tangy sauce that adds the perfect amount of flavor. It's a great option for a hot summer day or when you're looking for a lighter meal.

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Unagi Sushi Rice Bowl

Main Ingredients: Unagi, Large Egg, Cucumber, Avocado, Nori, White Sesame

One of the best Unagi Rice Bowl I’ve ever had! : r/JapaneseFood

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Unagi sushi rice bowl is a simple yet delicious dish that features slices of grilled eel served over a bowl of sushi rice. The eel is lightly glazed with a sweet and savory sauce, which pairs perfectly with the rice. This dish is perfect for those who are new to eel and want to try it in a familiar form.

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Scattered Sushi (Chirashi Sushi)

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Fresh Prawns, Shiitake Mushrooms, Large

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Scattered sushi, also known as chirashi sushi, is a popular dish that is great for those who want to try a variety of flavors in one bite. It's made with a bed of sushi rice topped with a variety of ingredients, including eel, shrimp, fish, and vegetables. The dish is then drizzled with a sweet and tangy sauce, making each bite burst with flavor.

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Fried California Sushi Roll

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Nori, Imitation Crab, Avocado, Cucumber

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If you're looking for a twist on the classic California roll, try a fried California sushi roll. This dish features all the traditional ingredients of a California roll, but it's then coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. The result is a crispy, flavorful roll that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

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Eel (Paling) baked with Mustard Sauce

Main Ingredients: Eel, Rusk, Lemon, Water, Salt, Margarine, Cornstarch

Baked eel with mustard sauce is a delicious and unique dish that is perfect for those who love bold flavors. The eel is marinated in a spicy mustard sauce before being baked in the oven. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your dinner guests. Serve it with a side of rice and some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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California Crunch Sushi Roll

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Nori, Imitation Crab Meat, Avocado

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If you're a fan of texture in your food, then the California crunch sushi roll is a must-try. This roll features all the classic ingredients of a California roll, but it's then topped with crunchy tempura flakes for an added crunch. The result is a delicious and satisfying roll that will leave you wanting more.

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Aburi-Style Smoked Salmon Oshi Sushi

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Rice Vinegar, Granulated Sugar, Smoked

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Aburi-style smoked salmon oshi sushi is a mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress. It's made with pressed sushi rice that is topped with smoked salmon and lightly seared with a blowtorch. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a perfect balance of smoky and savory flavors. It's a must-try for any sushi lover.

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Halloween Pumpkin Soup

Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Canned Pumpkin, Eel, Garlic, Salt, Dried

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Halloween pumpkin soup is a fun and festive dish that is perfect for the fall season. It's made with roasted pumpkin, broth, and a variety of spices, resulting in a creamy and flavorful soup. Top it off with some toasted pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.

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Vegan Dragon Roll and Vegan Caterpillar Roll (Vegan...

Main Ingredients: White Rice, Rice Vinegar, Liquid Aminos, White Sugar

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Even if you're a vegan, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of eel with vegan dragon rolls and caterpillar rolls. These rolls are made with a variety of vegetables and tofu, and are topped with a vegan version of the eel sauce. They're a great option for those who are looking for a plant-based alternative to traditional eel dishes.

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Japanese Style Pancakes

Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Milk, Vanilla, Sugar, Baking Powder, Flour

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If you're in the mood for something sweet, try Japanese style pancakes. These pancakes are made with a fluffier batter than traditional pancakes and are often layered with different flavors, such as chocolate or matcha. Top them off with some whipped cream, fruit, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious and indulgent breakfast or dessert.

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Japanese Okonomiyaki

Main Ingredients: Flour, Water, Eggs, Cabbage, Carrot, Spring Onions

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Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that is often referred to as a "Japanese pizza". It's made with a batter that is filled with various ingredients, such as cabbage, meat, and seafood. It's then topped with a variety of sauces and toppings, making each bite burst with flavor. It's a popular street food in Japan and is a must-try for any adventurous eater.

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Japanese ‘Cotton’ Cheesecake

Main Ingredients: Full Fat Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter, Whole Milk

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Japanese 'cotton' cheesecake is a light and fluffy version of the classic cheesecake. It's made with cream cheese, eggs, and a touch of flour, resulting in a cake-like texture that melts in your mouth. It's often served with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh fruit for a light and refreshing dessert.

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Japanese Buddha Bowl

Main Ingredients: Cooked Brown Rice, Edamame Beans, Cabbage, Furikake

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If you're looking for a healthy and satisfying meal, try a Japanese Buddha bowl. This dish is made with a variety of vegetables, grains, and proteins, and is often topped with a flavorful sauce. It's a great option for those who want to try a variety of Japanese flavors in one dish.

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Japanese Sesame Spinach (horenso No Gomaae)

Main Ingredients: Fresh Spinach, Sesame Seeds, Soy Sauce, Caster Sugar

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Horenso no gomaae is a popular side dish in Japan that features steamed spinach dressed in a flavorful sesame sauce. The dish is simple yet delicious and is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet. It's often served as a side dish to a main course, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack.

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Japanese Roasted Striped Bass Head

Main Ingredients: Fish, Yuzu, Mirin, Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Chile Sauce

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For those who are feeling adventurous, try Japanese roasted striped bass head. This dish is a delicacy in Japan and is often served in high-end restaurants. The head is grilled to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. It's a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress.

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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar

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Sunomono is a refreshing Japanese cucumber salad that is perfect for hot summer days. The cucumbers are thinly sliced and marinated in a tangy vinegar dressing, making them crisp and flavorful. It's a great side dish to accompany any meal, and it's also a great way to cool down on a hot day.

The History of Roasted Eel in Japan

The Origins of Unagi

The tradition of eating roasted eel in Japan dates back to the Edo period, around 1603-1868. It is said that the idea of eating eel for its health benefits came from a famous doctor and scholar named Kaibara Ekiken. He believed that eel had medicinal properties and could help boost energy and vitality. Soon, the dish became popular among the samurai class and was often served as a source of strength before battle.

The Role of Unagi in Japanese Culture

Over time, Japanese roasted eel became not just a dish for its health benefits, but also a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. This is because eels are known to swim upstream, overcoming obstacles and challenges, which is seen as a symbol of perseverance and resilience in Japanese culture. As a result, unagi is often served during important events such as weddings, birthdays, and the midsummer festival known as Doyo no Ushi no Hi.

The Art of Cooking Japanese Roasted Eel

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

To make the perfect Japanese roasted eel, it is important to start with high-quality ingredients. This includes fresh eel, preferably from Japan, and a special sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. The eel is also typically brushed with a layer of sake before grilling to enhance its flavor.

The Grilling Process

The traditional method of grilling eel involves using a wooden skewer to thread the eel and then grilling it over charcoal. The skewer helps to keep the eel in place and prevents it from falling apart. The eel is then brushed with the special sauce several times during the grilling process, giving it a delicious glaze and adding layers of flavor.

The Final Touches

Once the eel is cooked, it is typically served over a bed of rice and garnished with unagi no kabayaki, a special sauce made from the leftover marinade. Some restaurants also add a sprinkle of sansho pepper for an extra kick of flavor. The result is a delicious and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress. In conclusion, Japanese roasted eel is not just a dish, but a cultural icon that has been cherished for centuries. Its rich history, cultural significance, and delicious taste make it a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavors of Japan. So next time you have a special occasion, why not try making unagi at home and experience a taste of Japanese tradition?