Salmon Donburi Recipe: A Simple Japanese Comfort Food

Salmon Donburi, a beloved Japanese comfort food, offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors in a quick and easy-to-make bowl. Imagine succulent, pan-seared salmon nestled atop a bed of fluffy Japanese rice, glistening with a rich, savory sauce. This isn't your average salmon dish; the combination of fresh ingredients and a simple yet flavorful sauce elevates it to a culinary experience you'll want to repeat again and again. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a special occasion. The vibrant colors and irresistible aroma will tantalize your taste buds.

This recipe simplifies the traditional Salmon Donburi, making it accessible to even novice cooks. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!

Tools Needed

  • Baking pan
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillet
  • Sea salt
  • Sushi rice
  • Scallions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Kyari (or microgreens/alfalfa sprouts)
  • Yuzu juice (or lemon juice): 1 cup
  • Soy sauce
  • Rice vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Salmon

  • Cut the salmon fillet into four pieces and season with sea salt.
  • Bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.
  • Remove the skin from the baked salmon and flake it into smaller pieces.
Cut the salmon fillet into four pieces and season with sea salt.Bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.Remove the skin from the baked salmon and flake it into smaller pieces.
Prepare the Salmon

Step 2. Combine Ingredients

  • Mix the flaked salmon with sushi rice (or steamed white rice) in a roughly 50/50 ratio.
  • Add chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and kyari (or microgreens/alfalfa sprouts) to the salmon and rice mixture.
Combine Ingredients

Step 3. Season and Dress

  • Add 1 cup of yuzu juice (or lemon juice).
  • Add a little soy sauce to taste.
Add 1 cup of yuzu juice (or lemon juice).Add a little soy sauce to taste.
Season and Dress

Step 4. Serve and Garnish

  • Serve the salmon donburi in a bowl, garnishing with extra sesame seeds and microgreens.
Serve the salmon donburi in a bowl, garnishing with extra sesame seeds and microgreens.
Serve and Garnish

Read more: Ochazuke Recipe: Easy Japanese Green Tea Rice Bowl

Tips

  • You can make this recipe at home easily. Asian markets are a good place to find salmon and other ingredients.
  • If you can't find kyari, you can substitute microgreens or alfalfa sprouts.
  • If you can't find yuzu juice, use lemon juice for a similar citrusy flavor.
  • You can adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 600
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbs: 70g
  • Protein: 35g

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure it sears properly.

2. What can I substitute for mirin if I don't have any?

A good substitute for mirin is a mixture of equal parts dry sherry and sugar. This will provide a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.


This Salmon Donburi recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients elevated by a flavorful sauce. Enjoy the satisfying combination of textures and tastes, from the tender salmon to the fluffy rice. Now go forth and create your own delicious bowl of Japanese comfort!