How To Make Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice)
Takikomi Gohan is a Japanese mixed rice dish commonly made with seasonal ingredients. As it uses seasonal ingredients, there are various types of Takikomi Gohan, such as Takenoko (bamboo shoot) Gohan for spring, Toumorokoshi (corn) Gohan for summer, Matsutake mushroom Gohan and Kuri (chestnut) Gohan for fall, and Kaki (oyster) Gohan for winter. These are just some examples of Takikomi Gohan; you can find many more varieties in Japan.
Although there are different types of Takikomi Gohan, the seasonings used are commonly dashi soup stock and either soy sauce or salt. Based on these seasonings, adding additional seasonings can make each Takikomi Gohan unique and enhance the flavors of each ingredient.
In our recipe, we are introducing the basic type of Takikomi Gohan, which is enjoyed all year round, and known as the most popular Takikomi Gohan, “Gomoku Gohan.” “Gomoku” means five ingredients, indicating that the ingredients used in this recipe are carrot, burdock root, konjac, deep-fried tofu pouch, and shiitake mushroom.
We are using dried shiitake mushrooms in our recipe because they have more umami flavor than fresh ones. Since preparing dried shiitake mushrooms takes time, we recommend preparing them beforehand. While there are some shortcut ways to prepare dried shiitake mushrooms, the authentic way is best to bring out the umami from the mushrooms. Well-prepared dried shiitake mushrooms will enhance the flavor and elevate your Takikomi Gohan to a higher level.
It can also be a vegan dish if you use only kombu to make dashi soup stock. There is no strict rule for making Takikomi Gohan, so you can enjoy creating your own version.
This versatile dish is perfect, especially when you are busy. In Japan, there are various ready-made Takikomi Gohan seasonings containing some ingredients, making it easier to prepare meals quickly.
Once you try our Takikomi Gohan, explore other varieties and enjoy finding your favorite one.
Overview
Prep time: 30 mins
Cook time: 60 mins
Total time: 1hr 30mins
Total servings: 5
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 300 g Uncooked Japanese Short Grain Rice
- 60 g Carrot
- 40 g Burdock Root (Gobo)
- 50 g Konjac (Konnyaku)
- 1/2 Sheet Deep Fried Tofu Pouch (Aburaage)
- 2 Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
- 50 ml Water (for Dried Shiitake Mushroom)
- 300 ml Dashi Soup Stock
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin
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