Savory Yoshinoya Beef Bowl
Indulge in the flavors of Japan with this Savory Yoshinoya Beef Bowl! Featuring tender, thinly sliced beef simmered in a deliciously sweet and savory sauce with aromatic onions, this dish is served atop a bed of fluffy Japanese steamed rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings the beloved taste of Yoshinoya right to your kitchen. Enjoy each bite garnished with pickled red ginger for an added punch of flavor!
4
Servings
300
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Japanese steamed rice
4 cups (Cooked)
Beef (thinly sliced)
1 lb (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
Onion
1 (Thinly sliced)
Dashi soup
1 1/3 cups (Prepared)
Soy sauce
5 tablespoons (none)
Mirin
3 tablespoons (none)
Sugar
2 tablespoons (none)
Sake
1 teaspoon (none)
Red ginger (benishoga)
1 teaspoon (For topping)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the Japanese rice according to the package instructions until fluffy. Keep warm.
2
While the rice is cooking, prepare the ingredients: thinly slice the onion and cut the beef into bite-sized pieces.
3
In a large skillet or pot, combine the dashi soup, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and sake. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4
Add the sliced onions to the pan and allow them to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become tender and translucent.
5
Next, gently add the sliced beef into the pan. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is cooked through and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
6
To serve, spoon a generous amount of the beef and onion mixture over a serving of warm steamed rice in deep rice bowls.
7
As a finishing touch, garnish with a teaspoon of pickled red ginger on top for added zest. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
7.5
Fat
45
Carbs
15
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Yoshinoya Beef Bowl?
A Yoshinoya Beef Bowl, or Gyudon, is a classic Japanese dish consisting of thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in a sweet and savory dashi-based sauce, served over steamed rice.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Thinly sliced beef, such as ribeye or sirloin, is best. You can often find pre-sliced beef at Asian grocery stores labeled for hot pot or shabu-shabu.
Can I use a different type of rice?
While Japanese short-grain rice is traditional and recommended for its sticky texture, you can use other white rice if necessary.
What is dashi soup?
Dashi is a Japanese soup stock made from kombu (dried kelp) and katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), providing a deep umami flavor.
What can I substitute for dashi soup?
If you cannot find dashi, you can substitute it with beef broth or chicken broth, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because it contains soy sauce. You can use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
How long does it take to cook the beef?
The beef cooks very quickly because it is thinly sliced; it only needs about 3 to 5 minutes of simmering.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving over fresh rice.
What is the purpose of pickled red ginger (benishoga)?
Benishoga adds a bright, acidic contrast and a bit of a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the beef and sauce.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
Can I substitute chicken for beef?
Yes, you can use thinly sliced chicken thighs, though this would technically be called Oyakodon or a chicken bowl variation.
Is mirin essential to the recipe?
Mirin adds a unique sweetness and luster to the sauce. If you don't have it, you can use more sugar and a splash of white wine or water.
What can I use instead of sake?
You can substitute sake with dry sherry or simply omit it if you prefer not to use alcohol.
How should I slice the onions?
The onions should be thinly sliced so they become tender and translucent quickly during the simmering process.
Can I add other vegetables to this bowl?
While not traditional for Yoshinoya style, you can add mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides approximately 15 grams of protein.
What is the fat content in this recipe?
This recipe contains about 7.5 grams of fat per serving.
Can I freeze the beef and sauce?
Yes, the cooked beef and onion mixture freezes well. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the beef mixture in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. It is best to store the rice separately to prevent it from getting mushy.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the dish itself is sweet and savory. The only heat comes from the optional pickled ginger garnish.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your preference, though it may change the traditional balance of the sauce.
What kind of pot is best for cooking this?
A large skillet or a shallow pot is ideal for even simmering and easy stirring.
How do I get the beef sliced very thin?
For easier slicing, freeze the beef for about 30-45 minutes until firm but not rock-hard, then use a sharp knife to cut thin slices.
How do I ensure the rice is fluffy?
Rinse the Japanese rice several times until the water runs clear before cooking, and let it steam for 10 minutes after the heat is turned off.
Can I use brown rice for a healthier option?
Yes, you can serve the beef over brown rice, though the texture and flavor will be different from the traditional version.
Is there a low-sodium version?
To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce and ensure your dashi stock is not pre-salted.
How big should the bite-sized pieces of beef be?
Aim for pieces about 2 to 3 inches long so they are easy to pick up with chopsticks or a spoon.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use a large enough pot to allow the beef to simmer evenly in the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the sweet and savory flavor profile is generally very popular with children.