Torigohan Recipe: Savory Chicken & Burdock Rice Bowl

Torigohan, meaning "chicken rice" in Japanese, is a comforting and flavorful dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This savory rice bowl features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth infused with the subtle sweetness of burdock root, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. It's a versatile recipe adaptable to your preferences – add more vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or even swap the chicken for another protein. Torigohan is a perfect weeknight meal, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout. It's also wonderfully adaptable for meal prepping, making it ideal for busy individuals or families.

The unique flavor profile of torigohan stems from the careful combination of ingredients and the gentle simmering process. The burdock root adds a unique earthy note, while the chicken broth provides a comforting base. This recipe offers a balanced meal, providing protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice, making it a complete and nourishing option. Ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade torigohan? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Chicken
  • Burdock root (Gogo): 1/2
  • Rice
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon
  • Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Mirin (sweet rice wine): 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, grated
  • Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken and Burdock

  • Prepare the ingredients. Cut the burdock root into thin diagonal slices. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces.
  • Quickly blanch the burdock root in water to prevent it from losing nutrients.
  • Sauté the chicken in a pan with olive oil until lightly browned.
  • Add the burdock root to the pan and sauté.
Prepare the ingredients. Cut the burdock root into thin diagonal slices. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces.Quickly blanch the burdock root in water to prevent it from losing nutrients.Sauté the chicken in a pan with olive oil until lightly browned.Add the burdock root to the pan and sauté.
Prepare and Cook the Chicken and Burdock
  • Season the chicken and burdock with sugar, soy sauce, mirin, and grated garlic.
  • Cook until the liquid evaporates and the chicken and burdock are well-cooked. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Season the chicken and burdock with sugar, soy sauce, mirin, and grated garlic.Cook until the liquid evaporates and the chicken and burdock are well-cooked. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Prepare and Cook the Chicken and Burdock

Step 2. Prepare the Rice

  • Prepare the cooked rice.
Prepare the cooked rice.
Prepare the Rice

Step 3. Combine and Serve

  • Gently mix the cooked chicken and burdock mixture with the hot rice. Be careful not to crush the rice grains.
  • Serve immediately.
Gently mix the cooked chicken and burdock mixture with the hot rice. Be careful not to crush the rice grains.Serve immediately.
Combine and Serve

Read more: Onsen Tamago: How to Make Perfect Japanese Hot Spring Eggs

Tips

  • Don't peel the burdock root, as the nutrients are in the outer layer.
  • If you prefer softer burdock, add more water and cook longer.
  • You can add other vegetables like carrots and mushrooms.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 500-600
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Carbs: 70-80g
  • Protein: 25-30g

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?

Absolutely! Torigohan works well with pork, beef, or even tofu. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the protein you choose.

2. What if I don't have burdock root? Can I omit it?

While burdock root adds a unique flavor, you can omit it if needed. The dish will still be delicious, though slightly less complex in flavor. Consider adding other root vegetables like carrots or daikon for a similar earthy taste.


Enjoy your homemade bowl of comforting and flavorful Torigohan! This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients combined to create a truly satisfying meal. We hope you'll make this delicious Japanese dish a regular part of your culinary repertoire.