Grilled & Marinated Daikon Radish: Easy & Quick Japanese Side Dish

Daikon radish, a staple in Japanese cuisine, often gets overlooked beyond its use in soups and pickles. But this versatile root vegetable shines when grilled, offering a surprising sweetness and tender texture that's both comforting and refreshing. Forget bland side dishes – grilled daikon is a flavor explosion, easily customizable to your taste with a variety of marinades. Its slightly peppery bite mellows beautifully under the grill's heat, resulting in a char that adds delightful complexity. This simple yet elegant side dish elevates any meal, from hearty dinners to light lunches.

This recipe showcases the incredible versatility of daikon radish, transforming it from a humble ingredient into a star. We'll guide you through the simple process of preparing and grilling perfectly tender daikon, resulting in a delicious side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Ready to discover the magic of grilled daikon? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Tools Needed

• Frying pan
• Knife
• Paper towels

Ingredients

• Daikon Radish: 800g
• Deep-fried Tofu
• Ginger
• Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Daikon

• Wash the daikon radish thoroughly and wipe off excess water with paper towels.
• Cut the daikon radish in half lengthwise, then into half-moon shapes. Cut it a little thicker.

Step 2. Grill the Daikon

• Place the daikon slices in a frying pan.
• Add 2 tablespoons of oil to the daikon in the pan.
• Cover the pan and cook on low to medium heat to steam the daikon.
• Let it steam until the daikon is soft and has a nice color.

Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe

Tips

• Using the skin on the daikon adds flavor, so wash it well.
• Wiping off excess water prevents the daikon from becoming watery.
• Coating the daikon with oil concentrates its sweetness.
• This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 45 days or in the freezer for a month.
• It's delicious cold, perfect for lunchboxes.

Nutrition

• N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of radish instead of daikon?

While daikon is ideal for its size and mild flavor, you can experiment with other larger radishes. However, cooking times may need adjustment depending on the radish's size and density.

2. What if I don't have a grill? Can I cook this another way?

Absolutely! You can pan-fry the daikon slices in a little oil over medium heat until tender and slightly charred. A broiler works well too.

Grilled and marinated daikon radish offers a surprisingly delicious and versatile side dish that elevates any meal. Its simple preparation and delightful flavor profile make it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner. So, fire up the grill and enjoy this easy, flavorful Japanese treat!