16 Japanese Seafood Congee Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Seafood lovers rejoice! This article will introduce you to a savory and comforting dish that is popular in Japan - seafood congee. Also known as "okayu," this rice porridge is a staple breakfast or light meal in Japanese households. While it may seem simple, this dish is packed with flavors and nutrients, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. So, let's dive into the world of Japanese seafood congee and learn how to make it at home.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
If you're a fan of sushi, then you'll definitely love these Japanese rice balls! Onigiri, also known as omusubi, are a classic Japanese dish made of rice shaped into balls or triangles and often stuffed with delicious fillings like salmon and black sesame seeds. These make for a perfect snack or light meal and are easy to make at home.
Okonomiyaki, meaning "grilled as you like it," is a savory Japanese pancake that is often filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, cabbage, and green onions. It's then topped with a flavorful okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. This popular street food is a must-try for any foodie.
3of 20
Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri is a staple in Japanese cuisine and can be found in convenience stores, restaurants, and even school lunch boxes. These rice balls are typically filled with various fillings like pickled plum, grilled salmon, or spicy tuna. They are perfect for a quick and satisfying snack on-the-go.
4of 20
Easy Sushi Bowl
Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, Rice Vinegar, Sugar, Salt, Seafood, Diced
If you're craving sushi but don't want to go through the hassle of rolling it, try making a sushi bowl instead. Simply top a bowl of rice with your favorite sushi ingredients such as raw salmon, cucumber, avocado, and sesame seeds. Drizzle with soy sauce and sriracha and you have a delicious and easy meal.
5of 20
Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
Yaki udon is a popular stir-fry dish in Japan made with thick, chewy udon noodles, pork, vegetables, and a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for beginners as it's quick and easy to make, but still packed with flavor. You can also add your own twist by using your favorite protein and vegetables.
6of 20
Japanese Salmon Bowl
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Rice Wine Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Chilli Sauce
If you're looking for a healthy and filling meal, try making a Japanese salmon bowl. Simply grill or pan-fry salmon and serve it over a bed of rice with steamed vegetables and a teriyaki sauce. This dish is not only delicious, but it's also packed with omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.
7of 20
Garlic Shrimp Udon Noodles Stir Fry | Japanese Udon...
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Shrimps, Cloves, Green Onion, Light Soy
This garlic shrimp udon noodles stir fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines thick udon noodles with tender shrimp, garlic, and vegetables. The dish is finished off with a savory sauce made of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sesame oil. It's a must-try for any seafood lover.
8of 20
Japanese Teriyaki-Style Glazed Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillets, Sea Salt, Cracked Black Pepper, Grape
For a simple and delicious meal, try making this Japanese teriyaki-style glazed salmon. The salmon is marinated in a flavorful teriyaki sauce and then baked or grilled to perfection. Serve it with a side of rice and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
While making sushi rolls may seem intimidating, it's actually quite easy with a little practice. All you need is some sushi rice, nori sheets, and your choice of fillings such as sliced fish, avocado, and cucumber. Roll it up and slice into bite-sized pieces for a delicious and impressive homemade sushi experience.
10of 20
Japanese Cabbage Salad
Main Ingredients: Shredded Coleslaw Mix, Granulated Sugar, Light Soy
This Japanese cabbage salad, also known as kyabetsu sarada, is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs well with any Japanese meal. The salad is made with thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, and green onions and dressed in a light and tangy ginger dressing. It's the perfect way to add some vegetables to your meal.
11of 20
Japanese-style Ceviche
Main Ingredients: Fresh Salmon, Ginger, Garlic Cloves, Sugar, Wasabi
Put a Japanese spin on a Latin American classic with this Japanese-style ceviche. The dish features raw fish marinated in a flavorful sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and green onions. Serve it with some wonton chips for a tasty and unique appetizer.
12of 20
Okonomiyaki (Savory Japanese Pancake)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Corn Starch, Baking Powder, Salt
Okonomiyaki is a popular street food in Japan that is often referred to as a "salty pancake." This savory pancake is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and cabbage and is filled with delicious ingredients like pork belly, shrimp, and squid. Top it off with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes for a flavor explosion in every bite.
13of 20
Okonomiyaki (Savory Japanese Pancakes)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Sugar, Baking Powder, Baking Potato
If one okonomiyaki isn't enough, you can make a whole batch of mini savory Japanese pancakes! These make for a fun and customizable meal as everyone can add their own toppings like cheese, kimchi, or tempura bits. Serve them as an appetizer or make a few for a satisfying meal.
14of 20
How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
If you've never made onigiri before, don't worry, it's easier than you think. All you need is some sushi rice, your favorite fillings, and a little bit of practice. Watch a tutorial or follow a recipe to learn how to shape and stuff your rice balls for the perfect on-the-go snack.
15of 20
Hiyayakko (Japanese Cold Tofu)
Main Ingredients: Silken Tofu, Spring Onion, Ginger, Bonito, Japanese Soy
This simple and refreshing dish is perfect for hot summer days. Hiyayakko is a dish made of cold tofu topped with green onions, bonito flakes, and a drizzle of soy sauce. You can also add other toppings like grated ginger or shiso leaves for added flavor and texture.
Tamagoyaki, also known as Japanese omelette, is a staple in Japanese cuisine. This sweet and savory egg dish is made by rolling layers of thinly beaten eggs and cooking them in a rectangular pan. It's a popular breakfast dish and can also be served as a side dish.
Okonomiyaki, also known as cabbage pancake, is a popular dish in Japan that is often served at festivals or as street food. The batter is made with flour, eggs, and cabbage, and is topped with various ingredients like bacon, octopus, or cheese. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
18of 20
1 egg tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette)
Main Ingredients: Large Egg, Water, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Bonito Flakes
If you don't have a rectangular pan, you can still make a delicious tamagoyaki using just one egg. This 1 egg tamagoyaki is perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or snack. Simply beat an egg with a bit of soy sauce and sugar, cook it in a pan, and roll it up for a tasty treat.
19of 20
Japanese Salmon Avocado Rice Bowls
Main Ingredients: Rice, Avocado, Smoked Salmon, Cucumbers, Nori Seaweed
This Japanese salmon avocado rice bowl is a healthier and more affordable alternative to sushi rolls. Simply top a bowl of rice with grilled salmon, sliced avocado, and your choice of other toppings like cucumber, carrots, or edamame. Drizzle with some spicy mayo for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
20of 20
My Mom's Simple Japanese Okra
Main Ingredients: Okra, Katsuo Bushi, Soy Sauce
This dish may not be as well-known as others on this list, but it's a beloved home-cooked dish in many Japanese households. My mom's simple Japanese okra is a quick and easy side dish made with okra, soy sauce, sesame oil, and bonito flakes. It's a great way to add some vegetables to your meal without much effort.
The Origins of Seafood Congee
From Ancient China to Modern Japan
Seafood congee has a long history, dating back to ancient China. It was believed to have been created as a medicinal dish to help people recover from illness or surgery. Over time, this dish spread to other parts of Asia, including Japan. Today, seafood congee is a popular breakfast dish in Japan, especially during the cold winter months. Its warm and comforting properties make it an ideal dish to start the day with.
The Key Ingredients
A Nutritious and Flavorful Combination
The main ingredient of seafood congee is, of course, rice. However, unlike regular rice, the rice used in congee is cooked for a longer period, resulting in a porridge-like consistency. Some variations also use other grains such as millet or barley. As for the seafood, the most commonly used types are salmon, shrimp, and scallops. These proteins add a delicious and savory element to the dish. Other key ingredients include ginger, soy sauce, and dashi, a type of fish stock commonly used in Japanese cuisine.
The Cooking Process
A Simple Yet Flavorful Method
To make Japanese seafood congee, start by rinsing and soaking the rice in water for about 30 minutes. Then, drain the rice and add it to a pot with water, ginger, and dashi. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the rice has reached a porridge-like consistency, add in the seafood and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, season with soy sauce and any other desired toppings, such as green onions or seaweed.
Pro tip: For an extra flavorful congee, use the leftover seafood shells to make a quick stock to cook the rice in.
The Health Benefits
A Nutritious and Healing Dish
Aside from being a delicious and comforting meal, Japanese seafood congee is also packed with nutrients. The seafood provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the rice is a good source of carbohydrates and B vitamins. The ginger and dashi also have anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish a great choice for those with a cold or flu.
Now that you know the ins and outs of Japanese seafood congee, it's time to give it a try. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you'll have a warm and satisfying dish on your table in no time. So, next time you're in the mood for a hearty and nutritious breakfast, remember to give this recipe a try. Your taste buds and body will thank you.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
