Name: Gyudon (Japanese Beef Bowl)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: ½ pound thinly sliced beef ribeye (or chuck eye); ½ large yellow onion (thinly sliced); ½ cup water; 4 tablespoons mirin; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (light sodium); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon hondashi powder; 2 cups cooked white rice (hot); 2 large egg yolks (or onsen eggs, optional); Pickled red ginger (beni shoga or kizami shoga, optional); Green onion (thinly sliced, optional)

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japanese beef bowl edited — Gyudon (Japanese Beef Bowl) 6

Why Make This Recipe

Gyudon, or Japanese Beef Bowl, is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table. It features tender slices of beef simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish is quick to prepare and is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying. Plus, it’s a meal that can be customized with your preferred toppings, making it a hit with the whole family.

How to Make Gyudon

Ingredients

½ pound thinly sliced beef ribeye (or chuck eye)
½ large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
½ cup water
4 tablespoons mirin
3 tablespoons soy sauce (light sodium)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon hondashi powder
2 cups cooked white rice (hot, more or less to your preference)
2 large egg yolks (or onsen eggs, optional)
Pickled red ginger (beni shoga or kizami shoga, optional)
Green onion (thinly sliced, optional)

Directions

In a saucepan or any deep pan, combine the water, mirin, soy sauce, sugar, and hondashi powder for the sauce. Stir well and add the sliced yellow onions.
Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Once simmering, gently place the thinly sliced beef on top of the onions, spreading it as evenly as possible.
Cook until the beef is no longer pink. If desired, skim off any foam that forms. Remove from heat.
Serve the beef and onions over two bowls of hot rice and drizzle your preferred amount of sauce over the top.
For a special touch, top with a raw egg yolk or an onsen tamago, and garnish with pickled red ginger and sliced green onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Gyudon

Gyudon is best served freshly made, right over steaming hot rice. You can add condiments like pickled red ginger and green onions to enhance the flavor. It makes a lovely meal on its own but can also be paired with a side salad or miso soup for a fuller dining experience.

How to Store Gyudon

If you have leftovers, you can store Gyudon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving again. However, keep in mind that the texture of the beef may change after storing.

Tips to Make Gyudon

To achieve tender and flavorful beef, use high-quality, thinly sliced meat. Marinating the beef for 15 to 30 minutes in a bit of soy sauce and mirin before cooking can enhance the flavor. Be careful not to overcook the beef to maintain its tenderness. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a nice touch.

Variation

You can vary Gyudon by using different types of meat, such as pork or chicken, and experimenting with vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of chili sauce or chili flakes.

FAQs

What is Gyudon?

Gyudon is a popular Japanese dish that features thinly sliced beef simmered in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, served over a bowl of rice. It’s often topped with a raw egg yolk or an onsen egg for added richness.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Gyudon?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like sirloin or flank steak. Just ensure they are thinly sliced for quick cooking. Ribeye or chuck eye provides great flavor and tenderness.

Is Gyudon healthy?

Gyudon can be a healthy option when enjoyed in moderation. It provides protein from the beef and can be paired with vegetables to boost nutrition. Opt for brown rice for additional fiber if preferred.

How do I make Gyudon vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Gyudon, substitute the beef with firm tofu or shiitake mushrooms. Use a similar sauce made with vegetable stock, soy sauce, and mirin to retain that umami flavor.

Conclusion

Trying Gyudon is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Japan into your home. It’s a flavorful dish that the whole family can enjoy together, evoking warm feelings of comfort and satisfaction. For more delicious recipes and tips, follow me on Pinterest and Medium!