Torijaga, or Chicken Nikujaga, is a comforting and flavorful Japanese stew that's perfect for a cozy night in. This delightful dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory dashi broth with potatoes, carrots, and onions, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Unlike its beef counterpart, Nikujaga, the chicken version offers a lighter, more delicate flavor profile while retaining the soul-satisfying warmth of a classic Japanese stew. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, requiring minimal ingredients and simple techniques.
This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and authentic Torijaga. From preparing the ingredients to achieving the perfect simmering consistency, we'll walk you through the entire process, ensuring you achieve a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Get ready to experience the heartwarming flavors of this beloved Japanese comfort food!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 2
- Onion: 1
- Potato: 3
- Carrot: 1
- Soy sauce: 5 tablespoons
- Sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Sake: 3 tablespoons
- Mirin: 3 tablespoons
- Water: 200ml
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
- Green onion: optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and cut the carrot into bite-sized pieces . Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, removing any eyes . Peel and slice the onion . Remove the skin from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces .
Step 2. Brown the Chicken and Sauté Vegetables
- Heat vegetable oil in a pot . Add the chicken and cook for about a minute until the outside is cooked .
- Add the prepared vegetables to the pot and cook until they are lightly coated with oil .
Step 3. Simmer the Stew
- Add 200ml water, 5 tablespoons soy sauce, 3 tablespoons each of sugar, sake, and mirin .
- Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes . Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking .
- Check if the potatoes and carrots are cooked through . Turn off the heat .
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Add some chopped green onions for garnish .
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- You can use chicken thighs with or without the skin .
- The beauty of this dish is the potatoes soaking up the tasty broth .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables besides potatoes, carrots, and onions?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like daikon radish, konnyaku (konjac), or even green beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What can I substitute for dashi?
If you don't have dashi, you can use chicken broth or a combination of water and soy sauce for a similar savory base. Kombu (kelp) adds a nice umami flavor if available.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan/vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian or vegan version. Ensure your dashi is vegetarian-friendly or use vegetable broth.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Torijaga! This comforting stew is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.