17 Nikujaga Recipe Japanese Cooking 101 Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Nikujaga, which literally means "meat and potatoes" in Japanese, is a classic comfort food dish that is beloved by many in Japan. It is a simple dish that consists of beef, potatoes, and onions cooked in a savory broth. This dish is a staple in Japanese home-cooking and is often served in households throughout the year. In this article, we will take you through the steps of making the perfect nikujaga dish, and share some tips and tricks for creating an authentic Japanese flavor.
Main Ingredients: Water, Bonito Flakes, Tofu, Miso Paste, Green Onions
Miso soup is a classic Japanese dish that is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients. It is made from a combination of miso paste, dashi broth, and various ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and green onions. The flavors are bold and comforting, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Here are some variations of miso soup that you can try at home.
Nikujaga is a hearty and comforting beef stew that is popular in Japanese cuisine. The dish is made with thinly sliced beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, cooked in a savory broth made from soy sauce, sake, and sugar. This stew is perfect for cold winter nights, and can be easily made in a slow cooker for a convenient meal.
Beef and potatoes are a classic combination in many cuisines, and Japan is no exception. This dish is a simple and delicious way to enjoy these two ingredients. The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, then stir-fried with potatoes and onions. The end result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with a bowl of steaming rice.
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Nikujaga - Japanese Beef and Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Beef, Small Potatoes, Medium Carrot, Small Onion, Green
This version of nikujaga adds a twist to the classic beef and potato stew by using thinly sliced pork instead. The pork is cooked with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a savory broth flavored with soy sauce, sake, and sugar. The result is a tender and flavorful stew that is perfect for a cozy night in.
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Japanese Meat and Potato Stew (Nikujaga)
Main Ingredients: Beef, Potatoes, Onion, Carrot, Shirataki, Oil, Dashi
If you're looking for a vegetarian version of nikujaga, this recipe is for you. It replaces the meat with tofu, making it a healthier and lighter option. The tofu is cooked with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a flavorful broth made from soy sauce, sake, and sugar. This stew is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter alternative to the traditional beef stew.
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Nikujaga (Japanese meat and potato stew)
Main Ingredients: Large Onion, Medium Potatoes, Medium Carrots, Beef
This version of nikujaga adds an extra punch of flavor with the addition of garlic and ginger. The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, then stir-fried with garlic and ginger before adding in the potatoes and onions. The resulting stew is bursting with flavor and is a must-try for any meat lover.
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NIKUJAGA - JAPANESE STYLE POTATO AND BEEF STEW
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Onion, Beef, Fresh Ginger, Vegetable Oil
These pancakes are a popular breakfast option in Japan and are often found at street vendors or cafes. They are made with a batter that includes eggs, flour, and milk, and are cooked in a round mold to create a perfect circular shape. Some variations of Japanese pancakes include fillings such as red bean paste, chocolate, or fruit, making them a sweet and indulgent treat.
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a comforting bowl of nikujaga, this slow cooker version is perfect for you. Simply add all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it cook for a few hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful stew that is perfect for a busy day.
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Slow Cooker Nikujaga (Japanese Stewed Beef and...
Main Ingredients: Beef, Vegetable Oil, Large Onion, Potatoes, Large
This is a popular dessert in Japan, known for its light and fluffy texture. The cheesecake is made with cream cheese, eggs, and sugar, and is steamed to create a soft and airy texture. It is often served with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit, making it a light and refreshing dessert option.
Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage. It can be filled with various ingredients such as pork belly, seafood, or cheese, and is topped with a special sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. This dish is a popular street food in Japan and is a must-try for anyone visiting the country.
This version of nikujaga is a quick and easy recipe that can be made in just two steps. First, the beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, then it is stir-fried with potatoes and onions. The result is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight.
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The Guy's Two-Step Nikujaga (Japanese meat and...
Main Ingredients: Boiling Potatoes, Onion, Fresh Ginger, Ground Beef
This refreshing and light salad is a staple in Japanese cuisine. Thinly sliced cucumbers are marinated in a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce, resulting in a tangy and sweet dressing. The salad is often topped with sesame seeds or seaweed, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
This is a classic version of nikujaga that is perfect for anyone looking for a simple and authentic recipe. The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, then cooked with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a savory broth. This hearty and comforting dish is a staple in Japanese households and is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Japanese cuisine.
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Nikujaga
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Beef, Onion, Yukon Gold Potatoes
Ramen is a beloved dish in Japan and has gained popularity all over the world. It is a noodle soup dish that usually consists of wheat noodles, broth, and various toppings such as pork, eggs, and vegetables. There are many variations of ramen, each with its own unique broth and toppings, making it a versatile and customizable dish.
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a popular snack in Japan. They are made by shaping rice into a triangular or cylindrical shape, and are often filled with ingredients such as pickled plum, salmon, or tuna. Onigiri can be found in convenience stores all over Japan and are a convenient and delicious option for a quick meal on-the-go.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Udon is a type of thick and chewy noodle that is often used in Japanese cuisine. This noodle soup dish is made with udon noodles, broth, and various toppings such as tempura, beef, or vegetables. The broth is typically made from dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, resulting in a rich and savory flavor that is perfect for a cold day.
Gyoza, also known as potstickers, are a popular appetizer in Japanese cuisine. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings, then pan-fried for a crispy and flavorful exterior. They are often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil, making them a tasty and addictive snack.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
This version of nikujaga adds an extra layer of umami with the addition of mushrooms. The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, then stir-fried with mushrooms, potatoes, and onions. The result is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for a cold winter night.
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Nikujaga (Japanese-style meat and potatoes)
Main Ingredients: Snow Peas, Vegetable Oil, Sirloin Steak, Potatoes
Eggplant, or nasu in Japanese, is a versatile ingredient in Japanese cuisine. It can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, steamed, or stir-fried, and is often used in dishes such as tempura, stew, or donburi. Eggplant is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal and is a staple in Japanese cooking.
Miso soup is a classic Japanese dish that is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients. It is made from a combination of miso paste, dashi broth, and various ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and green onions. The flavors are bold and comforting, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Here are some variations of miso soup that you can try at home.
The Key Ingredients for Nikujaga
When it comes to creating the perfect nikujaga, it's important to use the right ingredients. The star of this dish is, of course, the beef. Thinly sliced beef, specifically beef for shabu-shabu, is the preferred choice for nikujaga as it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the broth well. You can find this type of beef at your local Asian grocery store or ask your butcher to thinly slice a cut of beef for you.
Potatoes and Onions
The other key ingredients for nikujaga are potatoes and onions. Starchy potatoes, such as russet or Yukon gold, are the best choice for this dish as they hold their shape well during the cooking process. Onions, on the other hand, add a sweet and savory flavor to the broth. Make sure to slice them thinly and evenly so that they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
The Broth
The broth is what ties all the ingredients together in this dish. A combination of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin creates a rich and flavorful broth that is the essence of nikujaga. Dashi is a Japanese cooking stock made from dried bonito flakes and kelp, giving the dish a subtle umami flavor. Soy sauce adds a salty and savory taste while mirin, a sweet cooking wine, balances out the flavors.
The Cooking Process
To start, heat a large pot over medium heat and add some vegetable oil. Once hot, add the thinly sliced beef and cook until it is browned. The key to achieving a deep and rich flavor in nikujaga is to brown the beef well before adding the other ingredients. Next, add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent. Add the potatoes, broth, and any additional seasonings, such as ginger or garlic, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the dish cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Serving and Enjoying Nikujaga
Once the dish is finished cooking, it is ready to be enjoyed. Nikujaga is typically served with a side of steamed rice and some pickled vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also garnish it with some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends and family.
Now that you have the know-how to make a delicious nikujaga, it's time to get cooking! Remember to use the key ingredients and follow the cooking process for the best results. With its hearty flavors and simple cooking process, it's no wonder why nikujaga is a beloved dish in Japan.