Kinpira Gobo, a beloved Japanese side dish, is a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. This simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe features gobo (burdock root), a root vegetable with a subtly earthy taste and satisfying crunch. Stir-fried with carrots and seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, Kinpira Gobo offers a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. Its appealing dark brown color and irresistible crunch make it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a standalone side. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
The unique combination of ingredients creates a complex taste profile that's both comforting and sophisticated. Beyond its deliciousness, Kinpira Gobo is also incredibly healthy, boasting a good source of dietary fiber and various vitamins. Ready to experience the magic of this Japanese culinary gem? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious batch of Kinpira Gobo.
Tools Needed
- Wire scrubber or knife back
- Bowl
- Knife
- Pan
Ingredients
- Japanese Burdock Root (Gobo)
- Carrot: 1
- Dried Chili: 1
- Chicken Stock Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Light Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Soy Sauce: 1 + 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Sake: 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Oil
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash thoroughly, then scrape off the skin using a wire scrubber or the back of a knife. Cut into diagonal slices, then into thin strips.
- Soak the burdock root strips in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Peel, cut in half lengthwise, then slice into thin strips.
Step 2. Stir-fry and Season
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the dried chili (optional) to flavor the oil.
- Add the burdock root and carrot to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until slightly softened but still crunchy.
- Pour the sauce into the pan and continue stir-frying until the liquid reduces.
- Add the remaining soy sauce and cook until the sauce is nearly gone.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Add mirin and stir-fry until the sauce is completely reduced.
- Turn off the heat, stir in sesame seeds, and serve.
Step 4. Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, combine chicken stock powder, light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and sake. Mix until the powder and sugar dissolve.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- Cut the burdock root and carrots thinly for even cooking.
- Don't overcook the vegetables; they should be crunchy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 7-10gg
- Carbs: 30-35gg
- Protein: 5-7gg
FAQs
1. Where can I buy gobo (burdock root)?
Gobo can often be found in Asian grocery stores, some larger supermarkets with well-stocked produce sections, and online retailers specializing in Asian ingredients.
2. Can I substitute other vegetables for the carrots?
Yes! Other root vegetables like daikon radish or even regular carrots can be used as a substitute or in addition to the carrots. However, using other vegetables will change the color and subtle flavor of the dish.
With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, Kinpira Gobo is a recipe you'll return to again and again. This versatile side dish adds a delightful crunch and earthy flavor to any meal, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the satisfying results of your homemade Kinpira Gobo!