Savory Hayashi Rice: A Classic Japanese Dish
This delightful recipe for Hayashi Rice, a comforting Japanese dish featuring tender meat, a rich sauce, and fluffy rice, will transport you to the heart of Japanese home cooking. Originally featured in the early 1990s in The Daily Yomiuri newspaper, this version can be adapted easily for larger gatherings, making it a versatile choice for both intimate family dinners and festive occasions. Whether served as a hearty main course or as a side dish alongside a refreshing green salad, Hayashi Rice is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385.8 |
| Total Fat | 24.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 91.1 mg |
| Sodium | 584.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 3.8 g |
| Protein | 24.9 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 tablespoons | butter |
| 5 tablespoons | flour |
| 100 ml | tomato juice |
| 1 | bay leaf |
| 2 1/2 cups | water |
| 2 cubes | beef bouillon cubes |
| 1/2 teaspoon | ground cloves |
| 2 | onions, chopped |
| 4 tablespoons | Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 tablespoon | soy sauce |
| 1 teaspoon | garlic paste |
| 1 cup | cooked rice |
Instructions
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Melt the Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over low to medium heat, allowing it to become frothy without letting it brown too much. This step will create a rich base for your sauce.
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Prepare the Tomato Gravy: Once the butter is melted, gradually whisk in the flour, stirring continuously until the mixture forms a smooth paste. This process, known as a roux, is essential for thickening the gravy. Slowly add the tomato juice, continuing to whisk until well blended and free of lumps.
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Add the Flavorings: Crumble the beef bouillon cubes into the mixture, followed by the chopped onions, garlic paste, ground cloves, and your choice of meat (either pork or beef). If you find the mixture too dry, don’t hesitate to add a bit more tomato juice to achieve the desired consistency.
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Cook Until Translucent: Allow the mixture to cook slowly, stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent. This gentle cooking helps to meld the flavors together and prevents the gravy from becoming too dark.
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Incorporate the Liquids: Add the water, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed.
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Simmer the Mixture: Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, allowing it to simmer gently. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
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Combine with Rice: Once the sauce is well flavored and thickened, add enough cooked white rice to the mixture to create a thick, hearty casserole. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the rice is coated with the delicious sauce.
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Reheat and Serve: Before serving, you may want to reheat the entire mixture for a few minutes to ensure everything is warmed through. Transfer the Hayashi Rice to a colorful serving dish, making it visually appealing, and serve hot.
This recipe encapsulates the warmth and comfort of Japanese cuisine, providing a delectable meal that is both easy to prepare and delightful to savor. Whether enjoyed on a quiet weeknight or shared with friends at a gathering, Hayashi Rice is bound to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.
