This One Pot Japanese Nikujaga is a heartwarming dish made with tender beef, potatoes, and sweet onions simmered in a tasty soy sauce broth. It’s simple and satisfying!
If you’re looking for comfort food in a bowl, this is it! Nothing beats a cozy family dinner with Nikujaga. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Thin slices of ribeye or chuck are perfect for Nikujaga. If you want a lighter option, use chicken or firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Potatoes: Use a starchy variety like Yukon Gold for a creamy texture. If you need a substitute, sweet potatoes work well, adding a different flavor and color.
Carrots: These add sweetness and color. You can swap them for parsnips or even bell peppers if you prefer. Just keep the cooking times in mind.
Dashi stock: This is traditional in Japanese cooking. If you can’t find it, vegetable or beef broth is a good alternative. You can also make a quick dashi using instant granules.
Shirataki noodles: These are low-carb and absorb flavors well. If they’re not available, you can use regular noodles, soba, or rice to soak up the broth.
How Do I Get the Beef Just Right?
Cooking the beef correctly is essential for tender bites in Nikujaga. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot pan; this will help sear the meat and lock in the flavors.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Remember to cook it just until browned before adding other ingredients. It will continue to cook as it simmers.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure the beef remains juicy and adds to the overall flavor of your dish!
One Pot Japanese Nikujaga
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 300g thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or chuck)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 150g shirataki noodles (konjac noodles), drained and rinsed
- 150g green beans or snow peas, trimmed
- 2 cups dashi stock (or substitute with beef or vegetable broth)
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tbsp sake
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Japanese Nikujaga recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of around 40 minutes. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook it until it becomes soft and slightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the thinly sliced beef to the pot. Cook it until it starts to brown, stirring occasionally. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables:
Now, toss in the potato chunks and sliced carrots. Give them a good stir to combine everything for a minute or so.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Pour in the dashi stock (or your chosen broth). Then, add the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Stir everything together well to mix the flavors.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
6. Add Noodles:
After the vegetables are tender, add the shirataki noodles to the pot. Cook everything together for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the noodles absorb the delicious broth.
7. Finish with Green Beans:
Finally, add the trimmed green beans or snow peas to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender yet still crisp.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give the broth a taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or a bit of sugar if desired!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Nikujaga hot in bowls, making sure to spoon some broth over the beef and vegetables. Enjoy the comforting flavors and warmth this dish brings!
This dish beautifully brings together savory and slightly sweet elements with tender beef and fresh vegetables in a cozy one-pot meal. Perfect for sharing with family or friends! 🍲
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While thinly sliced beef is traditional, you can substitute it with chicken, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.
What Can I Substitute for Shirataki Noodles?
If shirataki noodles are hard to find, you can substitute them with any noodle of your choice, like soba, udon, or even regular spaghetti. Just be mindful of the cooking time for your chosen noodles!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Make Nikujaga Spicier?
Definitely! For an extra kick, add some sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil to the pot while cooking. You can also serve it with spicy condiments on the side to cater to individual preferences.