Daikon radish, a staple in Japanese cuisine, offers a surprisingly versatile flavor profile—mildly sweet and subtly peppery—that lends itself beautifully to simmering. This simple yet elegant side dish, simmered daikon radish, is a testament to the magic of letting fresh ingredients shine. Its delicate sweetness complements a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to hearty stews, adding a refreshing counterpoint to richer flavors. The subtle sweetness and tender texture make it a perfect accompaniment for both everyday meals and special occasions. Beyond its culinary versatility, this recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
This recipe highlights the daikon's natural sweetness, allowing its unique flavor to take center stage. We'll use simple seasonings to enhance, not overpower, the radish's delicate taste. Ready to experience the delightful simplicity of this Japanese culinary gem? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and transform a humble daikon radish into a culinary masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic bag
Ingredients
- Daikon Radish: 500g (approx. half a radish)
- Carrots
- Konnyaku
- Soy Sauce
- Mirin
- Sake
- Water
- Sugar
- Bonito Stock (or Dashi)
- Sesame Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Peel the daikon radish thickly (about 1cm thick). Cut it into 1cm wide pieces.
- Peel and slice carrots into egg-shaped pieces.
- Cut konnyaku into bite-sized pieces. Boil konnyaku in water for 3 minutes, then drain.
Step 2. Sauté and Add Liquids
- Heat sesame oil in a frying pan. Stir-fry daikon and carrots for about 3 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Add konnyaku, stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add water, sake, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
Step 3. Simmer to Perfection
- Once boiling, simmer for 1 minute. Add bonito stock and mix well.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, bring to a boil again, then reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4. Finish and Cool
- Remove the lid and simmer for 3 minutes to evaporate excess water. Turn off the heat and let cool.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- Thickly peeling the daikon radish allows the flavor to penetrate more easily.
- Stir-frying the vegetables before adding other ingredients enhances their flavor.
- Add sweeteners before soy sauce to allow the sweetness to come through.
- Letting the dish cool allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies*
- Fat: varies*g
- Carbs: varies*g
- Protein: varies*g
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, and konnyaku (konjac) are all delicious additions. Just add them alongside the daikon during the simmering process.
2. How can I store leftover simmered daikon?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s even tastier the next day!
This simple simmered daikon radish recipe is a testament to the beauty of letting fresh ingredients shine. Its delicate sweetness and satisfying texture make it a perfect addition to any meal, elevating even the simplest dishes. Enjoy this easy and flavorful side dish, and savor the taste of authentic Japanese home cooking!