Japanese Comfort Food: Must-Try Beef Dishes

Meat and Potato Stew, Simple Stuffed Cabbage Rolls and Simmered Meat and Tofu

When it comes to Japanese beef dishes, sukiyaki is the most well-known. However, there are more comforting home-cooked recipes using beef!

Beef in Japanese Home-Cooking

Japanese home-cooked dishes on the table
Japanese home-cooked dishes on the table

In Japan, eating meat has been forbidden for centuries until westernization during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Since then, the Japanese have used beef as an ingredient in various home-cooked dishes. Nowadays, thinly sliced beef and ground beef are readily available at the supermarket, which is perfect for everyday meals.

Recipe 1: Simmered Meat and Tofu

Simmered Meat and Tofu

This beef and tofu dish is known as "Niku Tofu." It is similar to sukiyaki, but with distinct differences. Sukiyaki is prepared in a communal pot along with vegetables and other ingredients and served at the table with a dipping sauce. Niku Tofu is a more humble dish that’s served in individual portions. The seasoning for Niku Tofu is typically lighter, which brings out the delicate flavor of the tofu.

Recipe 2: Meat and Potato Stew

Meat and Potato Stew

Meat and Potato Stew, known as "Nikujaga,” is a classic home-cooked dish simmered in a sweet-savory broth. It became popular after WWII, and the dish varies by region and household. For example, pork is commonly used in eastern Japan and beef in western Japan. There’s also a preference in the use of firm or starchy potatoes.

Recipe 3: Simple Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Simple Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

The Japanese use ground meat in various recipes and it can consist of chicken, pork, and beef. A convenient and commonly used ground meat is "aibiki niku," a  ground pork and beef blend. It’s available at any supermarket and it’s  perfect for dishes like Japanese cabbage rolls.

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Published on Jul 18, 2024