Hayashi rice, a comforting and deeply flavorful Japanese beef stew, is a beloved dish perfect for a cozy evening meal. Its rich, savory sauce, a harmonious blend of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and often a touch of demi-glace, coats tender chunks of beef and vegetables. Unlike its thicker, chunkier cousins like beef bourguignon, Hayashi rice boasts a smoother, more integrated sauce, creating a delicious harmony between the meat and the fluffy, short-grain rice it's served over. The subtle sweetness and umami depth make it a captivating dish for both seasoned cooks and culinary novices.
This classic Japanese comfort food is surprisingly easy to master, requiring readily available ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. Forget complicated techniques; this recipe breaks down the steps to achieve perfectly tender beef and a richly flavorful sauce. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Japan's kitchens? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own authentic Hayashi rice.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Frying pan
- Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Celery
- Carrot
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bay leaf
- Water
- Flour
- Oil
- Thinly sliced beef
- Mushrooms
- Tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- Ketchup
- Soy sauce
- Red wine
- Salt
- Pepper
- Butter
- Cooked green peas
- Steamed rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broth and Roux
- Chop vegetables, heat oil in a pan, cook ground beef until browned. Add chopped vegetables, sauté for a couple of minutes. Add bay leaf and water, cook for 20-30 minutes. Strain, reserving only the broth.
- In a frying pan, add flour and oil, cook at medium heat, stirring constantly until brown (about 10 minutes). Set aside.
Step 2. Season the Broth and Prepare the Beef & Vegetables
- Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, red wine, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and butter. Add the roux and cook at medium heat for 20 minutes, or until thickened.
- Cut onion, mushrooms, and thinly sliced beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a pan with butter, add sliced beef and cook for a minute. Add onion and mushrooms, cook until tender.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Add the cooked beef and vegetables to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Pour the stew over steamed rice and garnish with green peas.
Read more: Ochazuke Recipe: Easy Japanese Green Tea Rice Bowl
Tips
- You can use store-bought beef broth instead of making your own.
- The usage of brown sauce and wine is Western influenced, but the flavor is uniquely Japanese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 30-45g
- Carbs: 60-80g
- Protein: 35-45g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of beef for Hayashi Rice?
Yes! While chuck beef is traditional, you can use other cuts like short ribs or sirloin, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Tougher cuts benefit from longer simmering.
2. What can I substitute for demi-glace if I don't have any?
If you don't have demi-glace, you can substitute with a combination of beef broth and a spoonful of soy sauce for added umami. A little brown sugar can help balance the flavors.
Enjoy your homemade Hayashi rice! This comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. With its simple yet deeply satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.