Gyudon, a classic Japanese dish, consists of tender beef and onions simmered in sake and soy sauce, served over steamed rice. This comforting and flavorful bowl is a quick, easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Savory and Sweet: The combination of sake, soy sauce, and sugar creates a balanced, flavorful sauce that complements the beef and onions.
- Perfect Comfort Food: A delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
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1 lb beef (ribeye, chuck, or thinly sliced beef for Philly cheesesteaks)
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1 onion, sliced into slivers
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1 cup dashi (or powdered Hondashi)
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2 tbsp sake
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp sugar
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Steamed rice, for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Beef: Slice beef thinly (freeze for easier slicing). Set aside.
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Cook Onions: In a pot, combine sliced onions with dashi, sake, soy sauce, and sugar. Simmer until onions soften.
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Simmer Beef: Add beef to the pot, cooking until tender and fully cooked through.
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Serve: Serve over bowls of hot steamed rice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Different Meat: Try chicken instead of beef for a twist.
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Add Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bok choy for added nutrients.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, any thinly sliced beef works well for gyudon, like flank or sirloin.
2. How do I get the beef thin enough?
Freeze the beef slightly before slicing to make it easier to cut thinly.
3. Can I make gyudon without dashi?
Yes, use a combination of soy sauce, water, and a little bit of fish sauce as a substitute for dashi.
4. Is gyudon served with any other toppings?
Traditionally, gyudon is served with pickled ginger or a raw egg on top.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a bit of chili oil or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
6. Can I make gyudon ahead of time?
Yes, gyudon can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
7. Can I freeze gyudon?
You can freeze the beef and onions mixture, but it’s best to freeze it separately from the rice.
8. Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
Yes, instant rice can be used for convenience, though freshly cooked rice is ideal.
9. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Use tofu or seitan as a substitute for the beef.
10. What type of rice is best for gyudon?
Short-grain or medium-grain rice is best for gyudon due to its sticky, tender texture.
Conclusion
Gyudon is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to make, bringing the taste of Japan right to your kitchen. With its savory beef and rich sauce, it’s a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Print
Gyudon (Japanese Simmered Beef and Rice Bowls)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Gyudon is a traditional Japanese dish featuring tender beef simmered with onions in a savory and sweet sauce made from sake, soy sauce, and sugar, served over a bowl of steamed rice. Ready in just 20 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb beef (ribeye, chuck, or thinly sliced beef for Philly cheesesteaks)
1 onion, sliced into slivers
1 cup dashi (or powdered Hondashi)
2 tbsp sake
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar
Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly (freezing it for easier slicing). Set it aside.
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Cook Onions: In a pot, combine the sliced onions with dashi, sake, soy sauce, and sugar. Simmer until the onions soften and the mixture becomes fragrant.
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Simmer Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the pot and simmer until tender and fully cooked.
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Serve: Spoon the beef and onions over bowls of hot steamed rice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Toppings: Gyudon is traditionally served with pickled ginger or a raw egg on top for added flavor and texture.
Rice: Short-grain or medium-grain rice is preferred as it holds the sauce well and provides the ideal texture.
Spicy Option: For a spicy kick, add a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Japanese
