Kamameshi(Seasoned Rice In An Iron Pot)
Kamameshi is a flavorful Japanese seasoned rice dish cooked with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce, offering a comforting and versatile meal suitable for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash rice well and soak in water for 30 minutes, then drain and let it sit for another 30 minutes.
- Thinly slice gobo and soak in water.
- Slice carrots thin and boil string beans then cut short.
- Cut aburage into 1-inch squares.
- Soak shiitake mushrooms in water for 20 to 30 minutes, then squeeze to drain and remove stems.
- Separate and wash shimeji mushrooms with salt water.
- Mix the prepared ingredients and cook in a saucepan with soy sauce, sugar, and soup stock.
- Season eggs with sugar and salt, then cook in a frying pan as thin omelets.
- Cut omelets into 1-inch pieces and add to the rice mixture.
- Combine all ingredients and cook together until flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use high-quality soy sauce and ensure the rice is well-washed to remove excess starch. If you can't find gobo, use thinly sliced carrots or parsnips as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, omit the eggs and use vegetable stock instead of water. You can also add other seasonal vegetables for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Kamameshi is best served hot, garnished with additional sliced green onions or sesame seeds. Pair it with a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. It also complements well with dishes like Cheese Hearts or other vegetarian recipes for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover to prevent drying out. Microwave or steam until heated through, ensuring the rice remains moist and fluffy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kamameshi(Seasoned Rice In An Iron Pot) contains roughly 548 calories, with 17g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (132% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2951mg per serving (128% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, so be prepared to experiment a bit to achieve the right texture.
Is it possible to make Kamameshi in a rice cooker?
Absolutely! To make Kamameshi in a rice cooker, prepare the ingredients as directed and add them to the rice cooker with the appropriate amount of water. Select the appropriate setting for white rice and let the cooker do the work. Just be sure to check for doneness.
What can I substitute for shiitake mushrooms?
If you can't find shiitake mushrooms, you can substitute them with cremini or button mushrooms for a similar texture. However, keep in mind that shiitake mushrooms have a unique flavor that adds depth to the dish, so consider adding a dash of mushroom seasoning if using substitutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).