Simple Mentaiko Ochazuke: A Quick & Hearty Japanese Home-Style Meal
Simple Mentaiko Ochazuke: A Quick & Hearty Japanese Home-Style Meal
Mentaiko Ochazuke Recipe: Savory Pollock Roe Meets Aromatic Green Tea
Discover ‘Mentaiko Ochazuke’, a classic Japanese home-style dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy days. The delightful combination of savory mentaiko (seasoned pollock roe), warm rice, and fragrant green tea creates a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is beginner-friendly and ideal for anyone looking for a quick, delicious option!
Main Ingredients- 2 stalks Scallions
- 1 string Low-sodium Mentaiko (seasoned pollock roe)
- 1 bowl Warm cooked rice
- 1.5 cups Strong green tea (or Genmaicha)
- Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning), to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, finely chop the scallions. Rinse them thoroughly, pat them dry, and then mince them into small pieces. These will be used as a garnish, so aiming for very thin slices will enhance the presentation and flavor.
Step 2
Place the warm cooked rice into a wide bowl or your ochazuke bowl. Sprinkle your favorite furikake generously over the rice. The furikake adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making the dish even more delicious.
Step 3
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add about 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil. Carefully place the whole string of low-sodium mentaiko into the pan. Sear it gently on both sides until it’s lightly golden and slightly firm to the touch. Be careful not to burst the roe’s membrane.
Step 4
Once the mentaiko is nicely seared, remove it from the pan and let it cool slightly. Then, make decorative cuts across the mentaiko. Scoring it in a diamond pattern not only makes it visually appealing by showing off the roe inside but also helps it meld beautifully with the green tea broth.
Step 5
Finally, arrange the seared and scored mentaiko over the rice. Pour the warm green tea over the rice until it’s mostly submerged. Garnish with the chopped scallions if desired. Your delicious Mentaiko Ochazuke is now ready! It’s best enjoyed immediately while hot.
