Discover a delightful taste of Japan with this recipe for Bamboo Shoot Mixed Rice with Thickened Tofu – a harmonious blend of textures and flavors perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. This recipe showcases the subtle earthiness of bamboo shoots, complemented by the silky smoothness of thickened tofu and the fragrant warmth of rice. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that's surprisingly easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, transforming a simple meal into a culinary experience.
This satisfying and healthy dish is surprisingly quick to make, combining the best of Japanese culinary traditions with readily available ingredients. The unique preparation of the tofu adds a luxurious touch without added complexity. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's delve into the step-by-step instructions and create this delicious Bamboo Shoot Mixed Rice with Thickened Tofu together!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice and Meat Mixture
- Mix minced meat, grated ginger, soy sauce, salt, 1 tablespoon of alcohol, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. (Mix before turning on the heat)
- Heat a frying pan to medium heat. Add the meat mixture and cook, stirring until the meat is cooked and the liquid has mostly evaporated.
- Cut boiled octopus and fish into thin slices. Cut fried tofu and bamboo shoots into thin strips.
- Add the prepared ingredients (fried tofu, bamboo shoots, boiled octopus, fish) to the cooked meat in the pan. Pour in kelp water.



- Simmer on medium heat until most of the liquid evaporates (5-7 minutes).
- Set aside half of the mixed rice for later use. Mix the other half with cooked rice.


Step 2. Cook the Thickened Tofu
- Add 100ml of water to the remaining mixture in the pan. Mix in water-dissolved cornstarch/potato starch (ratio of water to starch is approximately 1.5:1).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened. Turn off the heat once during the thickening process to prevent lumps.
- Garnish the thickened tofu with chopped green onions and white sesame seeds.

Step 3. Assemble the Dish
- Serve the mixed rice topped with the thickened tofu.

Read more: Ochazuke Recipe: Easy Japanese Green Tea Rice Bowl
Tips
- Mixing the meat mixture before cooking helps create a moist and even texture.
- Using kelp water enhances the flavor of the mixed rice.
- Washing fried tofu at 50°C helps retain flavor.
- Turning off the heat once when thickening the tofu helps prevent lumps.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the bamboo shoots with another vegetable?
Yes! Asparagus, green beans, or even mushrooms would work well as substitutes, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
2. How can I make the thickened tofu?
Simply press the tofu to remove excess water, then crumble it and gently sauté it with a little soy sauce and cornstarch until it thickens.
This Bamboo Shoot Mixed Rice with Thickened Tofu recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine in a simple, accessible way. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish as a satisfying meal any time of the year. We hope you've enjoyed this recipe and will try making it soon!