Tomato Meat Jaga is a comforting and flavorful Japanese stew that's surprisingly easy to make. This hearty dish combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the richness of ground meat and the satisfying heartiness of potatoes, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Forget complicated Japanese cooking; this recipe is accessible to home cooks of all levels, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques. The savory sauce, simmered to perfection, coats every bite, making it a truly irresistible meal. It's perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting weeknight dinner.
This simple yet deeply satisfying recipe elevates the humble potato to new heights. The blend of Japanese flavors, the satisfying texture, and the ease of preparation make this a dish you'll want to add to your regular rotation. Ready to experience the deliciousness of Tomato Meat Jaga? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Microwave oven
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Spatula
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Pork
- Potatoes: 300g
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Garlic
- Soy Sauce
- Potato Starch
- Salt
- Mirin
- Pizza Cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables and Marinate the Pork
- Cut the tomatoes in half vertically, remove the bottom, and then cut into thirds or fourths. It's easier to cut from the side opposite the skin.
- Cut the onions into slices, aiming for a soft and gooey texture. Cut off the head, halve it, and then make triangle-shaped cuts, adjusting the size as needed.
- Microwave the whole potatoes (unpeeled) for 2 minutes per 100g. This ensures even heating and tender results.
- Peel the cooked potatoes. If you find the skin difficult to remove, ensure the potatoes are thoroughly cooked.
- Finely chop the garlic. You can crush it first to remove the thin skin and release its aroma.
- Marinate the pork with soy sauce and potato starch.
Step 2. Cook the Pork and Vegetables
- Heat a frying pan using the water droplet method (adding water to check heat). Stir-fry the pork in oil until browned and fragrant.
- Add the garlic, onions, and tomatoes to the pan and stir-fry. Add salt and mirin to season.
- Add the potatoes to the pan. Add a bit of water, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 3. Simmer and Combine
- Mix everything together well to combine the flavors. Serve immediately or let cool.
Step 4. Serve (Optional Cheese)
- (Optional) Add pizza cheese at the end and stir to create a cheesy variation.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- Leaving the tomato skin on preserves flavor, but consider removing it for older people to prevent choking hazards.
- For perfectly cooked potatoes, microwave them whole without cutting, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Don't overcook the pork; leave it slightly pink for a softer texture. Add ingredients progressively while it’s still slightly red.
- Adding salt to the sautéed onions and tomatoes intensifies the flavor.
- This dish is delicious served warm or cold, making it ideal for bento boxes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat besides ground meat?
Yes! Ground beef, pork, or even chicken would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the meat you choose.
2. What can I do if my Jaga is too watery?
Simmer uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate. You can also thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at the end.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tomato Meat Jaga tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of Tomato Meat Jaga! This simple recipe is a testament to how satisfying and flavorful home-cooked meals can be. We hope you'll make this a regular part of your culinary repertoire.