She Strengthens

Discover the Flavorful Simplicity of Tamago Kake Gohan

On a lazy Sunday morning, a conversation sparked about a Japanese dish that’s both humble and rich in flavor. Tamago Kake Gohan, made with just three ingredients – rice, raw egg, and soy sauce – is a culinary delight that will surprise you with its complexity.

A Simple yet Versatile Dish

This traditional Japanese breakfast dish is easy to prepare. Simply heat up leftover rice, crack an egg over it, add a dash of soy sauce, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. The result is a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. But what makes Tamago Kake Gohan special is its adaptability. You can dress it up or down, adding various ingredients to suit your taste.

A Rich History

Tamago Kake Gohan’s history dates back to the 19th century, when Japan’s first war reporter, Ginko Kishida, popularized the dish. Its simplicity and flavor soon made it a staple in Japanese cuisine. Today, there are over 50 specialty soy sauces designed specifically for Tamago Kake Gohan, each with its unique flavor profile.

Elevating the Dish

At Tamashii Ramen House, a Japanese soul food restaurant in Oklahoma City, chef Matthew Sebacher takes Tamago Kake Gohan to the next level. He whips the egg whites until frothy, adds them to the hot rice, and tops it with a raw egg yolk. The result is a light and airy dish that’s both familiar and innovative.

Tips and Variations

To make the most of Tamago Kake Gohan, use high-quality ingredients, including Japanese short-grain rice and fresh, organic eggs. Experiment with different soy sauces, sesame seeds, and add-ons like furikake rice seasoning, kimchi, or seaweed flakes. For a more authentic experience, try using Otamahan soy sauce, which is sweeter and more mellow than regular soy sauce.

A Recipe to Try

Ingredients:

• 1/2–1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
• 1 raw egg
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (or more if you want)
• Dash of soy sauce (recommended Otamahan) to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the rice or heat up leftover rice.
2. Crack the egg over the rice.
3. Add soy sauce and sesame seeds to taste.
4. Stir and eat.

Optional add-ons:

• Furikake rice seasoning
• Sliced scallions or green onions
• Kimchi
• Seaweed flakes
• Katsuobushi (bonito flakes)
• Kombu (kelp)
• Tarako (cod roe) and mentaiko (spicy pollack roe)

Remember to use pasteurized eggs for health reasons, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make Tamago Kake Gohan your own.