Breakfast Recipe Ideas

Japanese Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg Rice) Recipe – Quick & Easy

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Tamago Kake Gohan, often referred to as “Egg Rice,” is a beloved and comforting dish in Japan. Known for its simplicity, this dish is a traditional Japanese breakfast that has been enjoyed by generations. The recipe features a raw egg, carefully mixed with steaming hot rice, creating a creamy and savory combination. While it may sound unusual to those unfamiliar with raw eggs in cooking, Tamago Kake Gohan is both delicious and nourishing when prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. This dish is the epitome of Japanese home cooking, offering a rich, satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making a perfect Tamago Kake Gohan, including detailed instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips to make this dish truly delicious.

Ingredients for Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg Rice)

The beauty of Tamago Kake Gohan lies in its simplicity. You don’t need many ingredients to make it, but what you do need is high-quality rice and a fresh egg.

  • 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably freshly cooked and hot)
  • 1 large egg (fresh and preferably from a reliable source)
  • 1-2 teaspoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon mirin (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
  • A pinch of salt (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
  • Chopped scallions or nori (optional garnish)

Instructions for Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg Rice)

  1. Prepare the Rice: Begin by cooking your rice. Japanese short-grain rice is the best option because of its sticky texture, which helps the egg mix with the rice seamlessly. If you already have leftover rice, ensure it is hot before proceeding. If using a rice cooker, follow the machine’s instructions for cooking the rice.
  2. Crack the Egg: Crack the egg into a small bowl. It’s important to use a fresh egg for this dish, as it will be eaten raw. Make sure the egg is fresh to ensure both safety and the best possible flavor.
  3. Mix the Egg: Whisk the egg lightly in the bowl. The goal is to break the yolk and mix the egg white and yolk together. This will make the mixture creamy and allow it to coat the rice properly.
  4. Combine Rice and Egg: Once the rice is ready and hot, transfer it to a bowl. Pour the whisked egg directly onto the rice. The heat from the rice will begin to cook the egg slightly, creating a velvety texture.
  5. Add Soy Sauce and Optional Ingredients: Add 1-2 teaspoons of soy sauce over the egg and rice mixture. If you like a slightly sweeter taste, you can add a teaspoon of mirin. For extra flavor, drizzle a small amount of sesame oil or a pinch of salt. Stir everything together gently until the egg is fully incorporated into the rice, creating a creamy and savory dish.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Optional garnishes like chopped scallions, nori (seaweed), or sesame seeds can be added to the dish for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the rice is still warm.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time:

  • Active Time: 5 minutes

Resting Time:

  • Resting Time: None (Serve immediately)

Total Time:

  • Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Tamago Kake Gohan is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that make it a satisfying meal. The nutritional values can vary depending on the exact proportions and optional ingredients used, but here is an estimate for one serving (approximately 1 cup of rice and 1 egg).

  • Calories: 250-300 calories
  • Protein: 7-9 grams
  • Fat: 8-10 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 1-2 grams
  • Cholesterol: 180 mg (due to the raw egg)
  • Sodium: 300-400 mg (depending on the soy sauce used)

While it may be higher in cholesterol, this dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Cuisines and Course:

  • Cuisine: Japanese
  • Course: Breakfast or Comfort Food

Tamago Kake Gohan is often eaten for breakfast in Japan, but it can also be enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner. Its versatility makes it a great choice for anyone looking for an easy, comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Tamago Kake Gohan:

  1. Use Fresh Eggs: As the egg is served raw, using fresh eggs from a trusted source is essential for both safety and flavor.
  2. Hot Rice: Ensure the rice is freshly cooked and hot when combined with the egg. The heat from the rice will slightly cook the egg, creating a creamy consistency without fully cooking the egg.
  3. Soy Sauce or Tamari: Traditional Tamago Kake Gohan uses soy sauce for flavor. For a gluten-free alternative, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  4. Optional Add-ins: Customize your Tamago Kake Gohan with your favorite toppings. Some popular choices include sesame seeds, chopped green onions, nori, or a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese seasoning).
  5. Mirin for Sweetness: While not essential, adding mirin will give the dish a subtle sweetness that complements the savory soy sauce and egg.

Equipment Needed:

  • A rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
  • A small bowl for cracking and whisking the egg
  • A spoon for mixing the rice and egg
  • A serving bowl

Conclusion:

Japanese Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg Rice) is the perfect comfort food for anyone craving something simple, satisfying, and delicious. The dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients, but its combination of warm rice and creamy egg makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or as a quick lunch, Tamago Kake Gohan will leave you feeling nourished and content. The addition of soy sauce and other optional garnishes can elevate the flavor profile, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

With its quick prep time and minimal ingredients, this dish has become a staple in many Japanese households. So, next time you’re looking for a fast and tasty meal, give this Japanese Tamago Kake Gohan Recipe a try, and experience the comfort and simplicity of this traditional dish.

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