Vida Recetas Editorial
Nikujaga is a comforting Japanese stew that combines thin slices of beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots in a savory-sweet broth made with dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sake. This dish, whose name literally means 'meat and potatoes', is a classic of Japanese home cooking, perfect for cold days or when you crave a hearty and nutritious meal.
The combination of simple ingredients and slow-cooking techniques allows the flavors to meld harmoniously. The potatoes absorb the broth and become tender, while the meat adds umami and the onions naturally sweeten the preparation. It's a versatile dish that admits variations: you can use chicken or pork instead of beef, or add other vegetables like mushrooms or tofu.
This stew is ideal for beginners in Japanese cooking, as it requires no complicated techniques and the ingredients are easy to find. It's also perfect for making in large batches and enjoying throughout the week, as the flavors intensify the next day.
Prep
40 min
Servings
4
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent.
Add the thinly sliced beef to the pot and cook until it changes color.
Pour in the dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
Add the potato chunks and carrot slices to the pot. If using green beans, add them as well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Occasionally skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
Serve hot in bowls, with each portion of Nikujaga having a good balance of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Japanese comfort food!
This recipe has a easy difficulty level, which means it's accessible for cooks of all levels.
The preparation time is 40 minutes and the cooking time is minutes.
This recipe is designed for 4 servings.
Yes, many ingredients can be substituted with similar alternatives. We recommend checking the recipe variations.
Store the preparation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Some preparations can be frozen for up to 3 months.
