Niku Jaga (Japanese Beef Stew in the Crock Pot)
Description:
This Niku Jaga recipe is a delightful Japanese-inspired beef stew, slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot, resulting in tender meat and flavorful broth. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year, whether you’re craving something hearty on a chilly winter evening or hosting a casual potluck with friends. Unlike traditional Western stews, Niku Jaga has a unique consistency – it’s supposed to be slightly runny, with plenty of savory broth to soak into a bed of sticky rice. So, get ready to enjoy a taste of Japan with this easy-to-make, deliciously satisfying meal!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 361.6
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 96.8mg
- Sodium: 1217.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 33.6g
- Fiber: 3.9g
- Sugar: 11.9g
- Protein: 36.8g
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup Japanese sake
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
Keywords:
Vegetable, Meat, Japanese, Asian, Healthy, Potluck, Spring, Summer, Winter, Weeknight, Beginner Cook, Easy, Inexpensive

Instructions:
Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|
5 minutes | 12 hours | 12 hours 5 minutes |
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Prep Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Peel and slice the potatoes and onion.
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Combine Ingredients: In the crock pot, add the beef stew meat, sliced potatoes, and onion.
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Mix Sauces: In a separate bowl, mix together the water, Japanese sake, sugar, soy sauce, and salt until well combined.
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Pour Mixture: Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables in the crock pot.
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Cooking Time: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 10-12 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
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Stir Before Serving: Once cooked, give the Niku Jaga a good stir to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
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Serve: Ladle the Niku Jaga into bowls and serve hot, preferably with a side of sticky rice to soak up the delicious broth.
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Enjoy: Sit back, relax, and savor the delightful flavors of this comforting Japanese beef stew. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
This Niku Jaga recipe serves 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or for sharing with friends at your next gathering. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this easy and inexpensive dish is guaranteed to impress with its rich flavors and hearty texture. So, give it a try and enjoy a taste of Japan right in your own kitchen! 🍲🇯🇵