Chikuwa and bell pepper okame is a simple yet flavorful Japanese side dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful addition to your next bento box. This recipe showcases the subtly sweet and savory taste of chikuwa (Japanese fish cake) beautifully complemented by the vibrant crunch of bell peppers. The combination is surprisingly satisfying, offering a delightful textural contrast and a burst of fresh flavor. It's a recipe that's both easy to follow and incredibly versatile, adaptable to your preferred level of spice and the vegetables you have on hand.
This recipe requires minimal ingredients and even less cooking time, making it ideal for busy individuals or those new to Japanese cooking. The simple preparation ensures that the natural flavors of the chikuwa and bell peppers shine through, creating a dish that's both healthy and delicious. Ready to learn how to make this irresistible dish? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Green bell peppers: 4 (approx. 130g)
- Chikuwa: 3 (approx. 60g)
- Dried bonito flakes: 3g
- Soy sauce
- Sake
- Honey
- Sesame oil
- Rice crackers
- White sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Rinse and wipe the bell peppers. Use your thumb to bend the lower part downwards and press it to remove the stem easily.
- Cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds and any white membrane (optional).
- Cut the peppers into 5-7mm wide pieces along the grain to reduce bitterness.
- Cut the chikuwa into 1cm wide slices (round or diagonal).
Step 2. Stir-fry the Peppers
- Heat sesame oil in a frying pan for about 20 seconds.
- Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for about 1 minute.
- Add sake and continue stir-frying.
Step 3. Add Chikuwa and Seasoning
- Add the chikuwa and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until the peppers soften.
- Add honey and mix well.
- Add bonito flakes and white sesame seeds, mix.
- Add soy sauce and stir-fry briefly.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Shojin Ryori: Delicious Buddhist Vegetarian Recipes
Tips
- To easily remove the stem from bell peppers, push the bottom end in before cutting.
- Cutting bell peppers along the grain reduces bitterness. Cut across the grain for a more bitter flavor.
- For chikuwa, you can cut it into round or diagonal slices.
- When stir-frying, add honey first for better flavor, then finish with soy sauce.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables besides bell peppers?
Absolutely! Try adding onions, carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
2. What if I don't have chikuwa? Can I substitute it?
While chikuwa provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with firm tofu, cooked chicken, or even fish cakes. The cooking method remains the same.
3. How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili sauce during cooking. A sprinkle of togarashi (Japanese chili pepper) after cooking also works well.
This quick and easy chikuwa and bell pepper stir-fry is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying meal. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a visually appealing and healthy addition to any table. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish anytime you crave a quick and satisfying bite!