Japanese cuisine is renowned for its ability to combine simplicity with bold flavours, and Vegetable Donburi is no exception. This delightful dish brings together fresh vegetables and steamed rice in a way that feels both comforting and satisfying. It’s a perfect example of how Japanese cooking transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special.
At the heart of Vegetable Donburi lies the concept of donburi itself. The word donburi translates to “bowl,” referring to a meal served in a bowl over rice. What makes this dish stand out is its harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Picture this: tender mushrooms simmered to perfection, releasing their earthy flavour into a savoury sauce. Add a hint of heat from vibrant red chillies, a burst of freshness from scallions, and the satisfying crunch of tender stem broccoli. These ingredients come together in a way that feels light yet indulgent, making each bite a pleasure.
The bed of steamed rice beneath the vegetables is more than just a base—it’s an integral part of the dish. The rice soaks up the rich juices from the mushrooms and the sauce, creating a hearty, flavourful combination that’s hard to resist. It’s no wonder that donburi dishes are such a staple in Japanese households!
Vegetable Donburi isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. It works beautifully as a main meal, whether you’re dining solo or serving it to guests. The variety of colours and textures make it as visually appealing as it is tasty. And for those seeking healthier meal options, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a nutrient-rich, plant-based dish without compromising on flavour.
For anyone looking to try something new or add more Japanese dishes to their repertoire, Vegetable Donburi is a must. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with the umami flavours that make Japanese cuisine so beloved worldwide.
So why not give it a try? One bowl is all it takes to understand why donburi dishes hold a special place in Japanese food culture.
Vegetable Donburi
Vegetable Donburi is a comforting Japanese rice bowl topped with tender stem broccoli, mushrooms, red chillies, and scallions, simmered in a savoury sauce. This simple yet flavourful dish is perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.
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Servings: 2 People
Calories: 509kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup short grain rice uncooked Japanese
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 200 g mushrooms sliced (shiitake or button mushrooms work well)
- 150 g tender stem broccoli cut into smaller pieces
- 1 large red chilli thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 medium scallions finely sliced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp mirin or 1 tsp sugar mixed with 2 tbsp water as a substitute
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger grated
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 1 tsp sesame seeds optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.1 cup short grain rice
- Cook according to package instructions or using a rice cooker. Set aside and keep warm.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Add the mushrooms and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.200 g mushrooms
- 150 g tender stem broccoli, 1 large red chilli, 1 tsp ginger
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Divide the cooked rice into two bowls.
- Spoon the vegetables and sauce over the rice.
- Sprinkle the scallions and sesame seeds (if using) on top.2 medium scallions, 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Tip:
You can easily customise this dish by adding tofu or swapping in other vegetables like carrots or snow peas. Alternatively use chicken, beef or lamb for the non vegetarian option. Adjust the heat by using more or fewer chillies.
Nutrition
Calories: 509kcal | Carbohydrates: 96g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 2119mg | Potassium: 574mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 614IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 6mg