Japanese Hamburg steak, or Hambagu, is far more than just a simple patty. This iconic dish transcends the ordinary hamburger, boasting a luxuriously tender texture, a rich, savory flavor, and a uniquely Japanese flair. Forget dry, overcooked burgers; Hambagu is all about juicy, flavorful perfection, achieved through a careful blend of ground beef, aromatics, and a masterful cooking technique. Its delightful umami depth comes from a special blend of ingredients and a perfectly developed pan sauce. The result? A culinary experience that's both comforting and sophisticated.
Beyond its deliciousness, making Hambagu is a rewarding culinary journey. This recipe will guide you through each step, from preparing the flavorful meat mixture to creating the rich and decadent pan sauce. Get ready to experience the juicy explosion of flavors that makes Japanese Hamburg Steak truly unforgettable. Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Microwave
- Large bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Onion: 100g (or half a large onion)
- Oil: 1 tbsp
- Breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Egg: ½
- Ground Meat: 300g (70% beef, 30% pork, 20% fat)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tsp
- Salt: 2 pinches
- Nutmeg: 2 pinches
- Water: 3 tbsp
- Worcestershire Sauce (for sauce): 3 tbsp
- Ketchup (for sauce): 2 tbsp
- Cooking Sake (for sauce): 2 tbsp
- Butter (for sauce): 10g
- Ponzu (for variation)
- Grated Daikon Radish (for variation)
- Shiso Leaves (for variation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Finely chop the onion. The finer, the better for easy blending with the meat.
- Microwave the chopped onion with 1 tbsp of oil for 2 minutes at 500W, then 1 more minute to evaporate excess moisture. This enhances sweetness.
- Set aside 1 tbsp of microwaved onions for the sauce later.
- Mix breadcrumbs and milk. Add half a beaten egg and mix thoroughly. Adding the egg later prevents coagulation.
- Add the ground meat, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and nutmeg to the mixture. Gently mix and knead, avoiding heating the meat.
- Oil your hands to prevent sticking. Shape the meat mixture into two patties, about 2cm thick, tapping out excess air.
Step 2. Cook the Hamburg Steaks
- Sear the patties in a medium-high heat pan for 3 minutes per side, without moving them to retain juices.
- Add 3 tbsp of water, cover, and steam bake on low heat for 5 minutes. Let it rest for 1 minute after turning off the heat.
Step 3. Create the Delicious Sauce
- add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, cooking sake, and butter. Simmer until thickened. Add the reserved onions.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Pour the sauce over the hamburger steaks.
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- Use cold ground meat to prevent fat from melting and leaking out.
- Finely chopping the onions is crucial for a smooth texture.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What makes Japanese Hamburg steak different from a regular hamburger?
Japanese Hamburg steak uses a different blend of meats, often including bread crumbs and finely chopped vegetables. The cooking method also differs, resulting in a juicier, more tender patty with a richer flavor.
2. Can I use different types of ground meat?
Yes, but a blend of beef and pork is traditional and creates the best flavor and texture. Avoid using ground meats with high fat content, as they may become too greasy.
3. What's the best way to keep the Hamburg steak juicy?
Don't overcook it! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety, but aim for slightly less for maximum juiciness. Also, gently handling the patty and using a pan sauce helps retain moisture.
So there you have it – your very own juicy, flavorful Japanese Hamburg steak! Enjoy the rewarding taste of this culinary masterpiece, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner. Now go forth and create your own meat juice bomb!