Rice > Asian > Japanese

Mirin-Sesame Rice Bowl Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup sliced scallions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Special equipment needed:
- Rice cooker or pot with lid
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Place the rice and water in a rice cooker or pot with a lid and cook according to package instructions.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mirin, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, sesame seeds, salt, and black pepper.

3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and pour the mirin-sesame mixture over it. Stir to combine.

4. Divide the rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with sliced avocado, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, scallions, and cilantro.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
N/A
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 340
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 550mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice.
- Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.
- Sliced bell peppers or snap peas can be used instead of shredded carrots.

Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
- Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
- Top with a fried egg for a breakfast version of the dish.

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the avocado, cucumber, and scallions.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for extra flavor.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the rice bowl in a shallow bowl or plate to showcase the colorful toppings.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra sesame seeds and cilantro on top for garnish.

Pairings:
Pair with a side of miso soup or edamame for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
Miso soup, edamame, or a side salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water or more of the mirin-sesame mixture to moisten it.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash all produce before slicing and serving.

Food history:
Mirin is a sweet Japanese rice wine that is commonly used in cooking. It is often used in marinades, sauces, and glazes.

Flavor profiles:
This dish has a sweet and savory flavor from the mirin, soy sauce, and honey. The sesame oil adds a nutty flavor, while the ginger and cilantro add a fresh, herbaceous taste.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the rice bowl with chopsticks and a spoon for easy eating.

Related Categories

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Region: Japanese

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Sweet, Umami, Aromatic