Donburi is a classic Japanese comfort food made by topping a bowl of steamed rice with savory ingredients. The name “Donburi” (丼) literally means “bowl” in Japanese, but it refers to a full meal served in one bowl. From meat to seafood to vegetables, Donburi is flexible and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for quick lunches or dinners. This recipe is for Gyudon, one of the most popular variations made with thin slices of beef and onions simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce. It serves 2 people.
Ingredients
For the Beef Topping:
-
200 g thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin)
-
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
-
1 tablespoon oil
-
1½ tablespoons soy sauce
-
1 tablespoon mirin
-
1 tablespoon sake (or water if unavailable)
-
1 tablespoon sugar
-
½ cup dashi broth (or use light chicken broth)
-
Optional: grated ginger or garlic for extra flavor
For Serving:
-
2 bowls cooked Japanese rice (or any short-grain rice)
-
Pickled red ginger (beni shoga), for garnish
-
Chopped spring onions or scallions
-
Optional: soft boiled egg or raw egg yolk on top
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the onion and beef into thin pieces. If using frozen beef slices, let them thaw slightly so they’re easier to cut.
2. Cook the Onion and Sauce
In a frying pan or shallow pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened. Pour in the dashi, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the Beef
Add the sliced beef to the simmering sauce. Spread it out in the pan and cook gently until the beef is just cooked through. This only takes 3–5 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the beef tender.
4. Assemble the Donburi
Scoop hot cooked rice into two bowls. Spoon the beef and onion mixture over the rice along with some of the cooking broth. Top with sliced scallions, pickled red ginger, and a soft-boiled egg or raw yolk if you like it rich.
5. Serve Warm
Serve immediately while hot. Donburi is best enjoyed fresh with a hot bowl of miso soup or a side of pickles.
Donburi is one of those dishes you can customize endlessly—swap beef for chicken, tofu, tempura, or even sashimi. It’s all about balance: warm rice, tasty toppings, and a touch of sauce soaking in. Simple, fast, and always satisfying.
