20 Delicious Japanese Pork Recipes You Must Try

Japanese cuisine offers a treasure trove of flavorful pork recipes that are easy to whip up and utterly satisfying. From succulent tonkatsu to savory yakitori, you’ll find plenty of dishes that highlight the rich taste of pork in delightful ways.

Dive in and explore these simple yet mouthwatering recipes that will bring a taste of Japan to your kitchen!

Pork Belly Buns

Pork belly buns are a delightful treat that brings together soft, fluffy buns and savory, tender pork belly. The combination of textures and flavors is simply delightful. The buns are typically steamed, making them light and airy, while the pork belly is marinated for a rich, umami-packed taste.

This recipe is not overly complicated, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious dish that’s perfect for a casual dinner or an impressive party appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly, skin removed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 8 bao buns
• 1/2 cup pickled vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, etc.)
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and five-spice powder. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Pork: In a skillet over medium heat, add the marinated pork belly and cook until browned and crispy, about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
3. Steam the Buns: While the pork is cooking, steam the bao buns according to package instructions until warm and fluffy.
4. Assemble: Place the cooked pork belly in each bun. Top with pickled vegetables and green onions.
5. Serve: Enjoy your pork belly buns warm and fresh!

Katsu Curry Rice

Katsu Curry Rice is a delightful dish that combines crispy breaded pork cutlets with a rich, flavorful curry sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s both comforting and satisfying, making it a popular choice for many. The contrast between the crunchy katsu and the smooth curry creates a delicious harmony that makes every bite enjoyable.

This recipe is relatively simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless pork chops
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Katsu: Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Dredge each chop in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Fry the Katsu: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the breaded pork until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Curry Sauce: In the same pan, sauté the onion until translucent. Add the carrots and potato, cooking for a few minutes. Stir in curry powder and soy sauce, and then add the broth. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
4. Assemble the Dish: Slice the katsu and place it over a bed of rice. Ladle the curry sauce over the top and enjoy!

Pork Gyoza Dumplings

Pork gyoza dumplings are a delightful treat that showcases the savory flavors of seasoned pork wrapped in a tender, thin dough. Their crispy edges and juicy filling make them a popular choice for appetizers or a main dish. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home, perfect for a fun cooking session with family or friends.

The blend of pork, garlic, and green onions creates a robust flavor that pairs well with a soy dipping sauce. Whether you choose to pan-fry, steam, or boil them, these gyoza are sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet light.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 package gyoza wrappers
• Oil for frying
• Water for steaming

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ground pork, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Assemble the Gyoza: Take a gyoza wrapper and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper over, and pinch to seal. Repeat until all the filling is used.
3. Cook the Gyoza: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Place the gyoza in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
4. Add Water: Carefully pour a small amount of water into the skillet, cover, and let steam for about 5 minutes until the water has evaporated and the gyoza are cooked through.
5. Serve: Enjoy the gyoza hot with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Shogayaki (Ginger Pork)

Shogayaki, or ginger pork, is a beloved Japanese dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh ginger and tender pork. It’s often enjoyed with a side of steaming rice, making it a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. The combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes creates a delightful taste that’s both satisfying and easy to love.

This dish is simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a quick family meal. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a hearty and flavorful stir-fry that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 500g pork loin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 green onions, chopped
• Rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and grated ginger. Add the sliced pork and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork, discarding any excess marinade.
3. Cook the Pork: Stir-fry the pork for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Add chopped green onions during the last minute of cooking.
4. Serve: Serve the shogayaki hot over a bed of rice, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Pork Ramen with Soft Boiled Egg

Pork ramen is a comforting bowl of goodness that brings warmth and satisfaction. The rich broth, infused with savory flavors, perfectly complements tender slices of pork and a beautifully soft boiled egg. Each spoonful is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a cozy meal for any time of the day.

This recipe is straightforward and accessible for home cooks, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Japan without a lot of fuss. With just a few ingredients and some simple techniques, you can create a dish that feels like a treat.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken or pork broth
• 200g ramen noodles
• 200g pork belly, sliced
• 2 soft boiled eggs
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon miso paste
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 green onion, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a pot, combine the broth, soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook the Pork: In a separate pan, cook the sliced pork belly until crispy. Once done, add it to the simmering broth to absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bowl: Place the cooked noodles in a bowl. Pour the hot broth and pork over the noodles. Halve the soft boiled eggs and place them on top.
5. Garnish: Finish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade pork ramen!

Miso Braised Pork

Miso braised pork is a delightful dish that combines the rich umami flavors of miso with tender, juicy pork. The slow cooking process allows the meat to absorb the delicious miso sauce, creating a comforting and hearty meal. It’s simple to make and perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a cozy dish.

This recipe is all about balancing flavors—sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. Serve it over rice or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup miso paste (preferably red or brown)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sake
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Water as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the miso paste, soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork: Add the pork belly cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
3. Braise the Pork: In a large pot, add the marinated pork and any leftover marinade. Add enough water to cover the pork. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the pork is tender.
4. Serve: Once done, remove the pot from heat. Garnish the braised pork with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy it with steamed rice or your choice of side dish.

Tonkatsu with Homemade Sauce

Tonkatsu is a delightful Japanese dish featuring breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. It strikes a beautiful balance between crispy and tender, making it a satisfying meal for both the eyes and the taste buds. The homemade sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory pork, making this dish a favorite at home and in restaurants.

This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and the result will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless pork chops
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
2. Coat the Pork: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, dip in the egg, and coat with panko.
3. Fry the Tonkatsu: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded pork chops. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
5. Serve: Slice the tonkatsu and drizzle with the homemade sauce. Enjoy with rice and shredded cabbage on the side!

Korean-Japanese Pork Tacos

These Korean-Japanese pork tacos are a delightful fusion that combines the savory flavors of marinated pork with fresh, crunchy vegetables. The tacos are filled with tender pork, stir-fried peppers, and topped with cilantro for a burst of freshness. This recipe is not only delicious but also quite simple to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty tacos in no time. The blend of Korean and Japanese spices adds a unique twist, making every bite a flavorful experience. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a delicious adventure!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
• 4 small flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine the pork strips, soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, garlic, and ginger. Mix well and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
2. Cook the Pork: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until just tender.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with pork and sautéed vegetables. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Niku Udon (Pork Udon Noodles)

Niku Udon is a delightful Japanese noodle dish featuring thick, chewy udon noodles served in a savory broth, topped with tender slices of pork. The combination of flavors creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, this dish brings warmth and joy with each bite.

This recipe is not only delicious but also quite simple to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, you’ll find it easy to whip up a bowl of Niku Udon that rivals your favorite ramen shop experience.

Ingredients

• 200g udon noodles
• 200g pork belly, thinly sliced
• 4 cups dashi stock
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake
• 1/2 block of tofu, diced
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 sheet nori, cut into strips
• Optional: chili flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Cook the Udon: Bring a pot of water to boil and add the udon noodles. Cook according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, heat the dashi stock. Once warm, add soy sauce, mirin, and sake. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes.
3. Add the Pork: Add the sliced pork to the broth and cook until it turns opaque and tender. This should take about 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate Tofu: Gently add the diced tofu to the pot, allowing it to warm through for a couple of minutes.
5. Assemble the Dish: In serving bowls, divide the cooked udon noodles and ladle the hot broth with pork and tofu over them. Top with chopped green onion, nori strips, and chili flakes if desired.

Pork Sukiyaki

Pork Sukiyaki is a delightful Japanese hot pot dish that’s perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings. This recipe features tender slices of pork cooked in a savory and slightly sweet broth, combined with fresh vegetables and tofu. The flavor is rich and comforting, making it a favorite in many households.

The best part? It’s simple to prepare! You can customize the ingredients to your liking, adding more vegetables or adjusting the seasoning for your taste. Gather around the table with family and friends, and enjoy the experience of cooking and eating together.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork belly, thinly sliced
• 1 block of firm tofu, diced
• 2 cups napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup daikon radish, sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 4 cups dashi broth (or water)
• Sesame oil for frying
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Heat until sugar dissolves and the mixture is warmed through.
2. Cook the Pork: In a large skillet or sukiyaki pan, heat a small amount of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced pork and cook until browned.
3. Add Vegetables and Tofu: Layer the chopped napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, green onions, daikon radish, and tofu on top of the pork. Pour the broth over the ingredients.
4. Simmer: Cover and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
5. Serve: Enjoy hot, served over a bowl of cooked rice for a complete meal.

Spicy Pork Stir-Fry

Spicy Pork Stir-Fry is a quick and satisfying dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. The combination of tender pork and vibrant vegetables creates a delightful contrast, enhanced by a flavorful sauce that packs a spicy kick. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it easy to whip up after a long day.

The stir-fry technique allows the ingredients to maintain their freshness and crunch, while the spicy sauce adds depth and excitement. Serve it over rice, and you have a delicious meal that’s sure to please!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili paste
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine sliced pork, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers, green onions, and chilies. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.
4. Add the Sauce: Return the cooked pork to the pan. In a small bowl, mix chili paste, honey, and rice vinegar, then pour it over the stir-fry. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve: Serve the spicy pork stir-fry hot over cooked rice, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Unagi Pork Rice Bowl

If you’re looking for a dish that combines savory flavors with a touch of sweetness, the Unagi Pork Rice Bowl is a delightful choice. This recipe features tender pork glazed with a rich eel sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice and topped with vibrant vegetables. It’s not just tasty; it’s also simple to prepare, making it a go-to weeknight meal.

The balance of flavors and textures in this bowl is truly satisfying. The juicy pork pairs perfectly with the slight crunch of fresh veggies and the comforting rice, creating a wholesome meal that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re trying this for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 1 lb pork tenderloin
• 1/4 cup unagi sauce (eel sauce)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 zucchini, julienned
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Prepare the Pork: Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Rub the pork tenderloin with sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Pork: Cook the pork for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked. Brush with unagi sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
4. Prepare the Vegetables: Sauté the julienned carrot, zucchini, and red bell pepper in a pan over medium heat until slightly tender, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Assemble the Bowl: Slice the grilled pork and layer it over the cooked rice. Add the sautéed vegetables on the side, drizzle with soy sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.

Pork and Vegetable Tempura

Pork and vegetable tempura is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden-fried pork with a medley of fresh vegetables. The tempura batter gives everything a light and airy texture, making it a joy to bite into. This recipe is not only satisfying but also straightforward, perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.

The combination of savory pork and crunchy veggies creates a delightful contrast, while the dipping sauce adds a touch of umami. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, this tempura will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced thin
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Assorted vegetables (like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers), cut into strips
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, combine the cold water and the beaten egg. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring gently until just combined.
2. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil for frying.
3. Fry the Pork: Dip the pork slices into the batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place them in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Fry the Vegetables: Repeat the same process with the vegetable strips, frying until they’re crispy and golden.
5. Serve: Enjoy the tempura hot with a dipping sauce of your choice, like a soy or a sweet chili sauce.

Yakitori Pork Chops

Yakitori pork chops are a delightful twist on the traditional Japanese grilled dish. These tender, juicy chops are marinated in a savory-sweet sauce that brings out the natural flavor of the pork. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of sugar creates a beautifully caramelized exterior that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a dish that’s flavorful and satisfying, making it a great addition to your Japanese pork recipes collection.

Ingredients

• 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Place the pork chops in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. You can also use a grill pan on the stove if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
3. Grill the Chops: Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place them on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Pork Tonkotsu Ramen

Pork Tonkotsu Ramen is a hearty and comforting dish that showcases rich flavors and a creamy broth. This ramen features a deeply savory pork bone broth that simmers for hours, creating a deliciously indulgent base. With the addition of tender noodles, succulent pork slices, and vibrant toppings, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. While it may take some time to prepare, the process is generally straightforward and rewarding, making it a favorite for ramen lovers.

The combination of umami from the pork and the aromatic notes from the toppings creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can customize your bowl with a variety of toppings to make it your own!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork bones (neck or trotters)
• 1 pound pork belly
• 1 onion, halved
• 1 head of garlic, halved
• 1 piece of ginger (2 inches), sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon miso paste
• 4 servings of fresh ramen noodles
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Nori (seaweed), for garnish
• Soft-boiled eggs, for serving
• Fresh cilantro or spinach, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, cover the pork bones with water. Bring to a boil and boil for 10 minutes. Drain and rinse the bones to remove impurities.
2. Simmer the Broth: Return the cleaned bones to the pot. Add the pork belly, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cover with water and simmer for at least 6 hours, adding water as needed to keep everything submerged.
3. Season the Broth: After simmering, strain the broth and return it to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce and miso paste to taste.
4. Cook the Noodles: Prepare the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Ramen: In serving bowls, place a portion of noodles, ladle the hot broth over them, and top with slices of pork belly, chopped green onions, nori, and a soft-boiled egg. Garnish with fresh herbs or greens as desired.

Pork Shabu-Shabu

Pork Shabu-Shabu is a delightful Japanese dish that’s both comforting and fun to prepare. This hot pot-style meal features thinly sliced pork cooked quickly in hot broth, allowing the meat to retain its tenderness and rich flavor. The dipping sauces, fresh vegetables, and savory broth create a wonderful balance of tastes that everyone will enjoy.

Making Pork Shabu-Shabu is easy and perfect for gatherings. Each person can customize their own bowl, choosing the amount of meat and vegetables they want. It’s a great way to bring friends and family together while enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound thinly sliced pork (such as pork loin or belly)
• 4 cups dashi broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup green onions, cut into pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Dipping sauces (such as ponzu or sesame sauce)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a pot, bring the dashi broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the broth heats up, arrange the sliced pork, vegetables, and dipping sauces on a platter.
3. Cook the Pork: Once the broth is simmering, add a few slices of pork to the pot. Cook for about 30 seconds or until the pork is just cooked through.
4. Add Vegetables: After cooking the pork, toss in the vegetables, and let them cook for a few minutes until tender.
5. Dine: Using chopsticks or a slotted spoon, serve the cooked meat and vegetables in individual bowls with dipping sauce. Enjoy your meal!

Pork and Daikon Stew

Pork and Daikon Stew is a comforting Japanese dish that brings together tender pork and the mild flavor of daikon radish. This stew has a rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out. The combination of ingredients creates a deliciously hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this satisfying dish in no time. It’s a great way to enjoy traditional Japanese flavors!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 large daikon radish, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups dashi stock (or chicken broth)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Pork: In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, daikon, and carrots. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the onions are softened.
3. Add Liquid: Pour in the dashi stock, soy sauce, and mirin. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer: Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Sesame Pork Stir-Fry

Sesame Pork Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that combines tender pieces of pork with crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory sesame sauce. The balance of flavors, with a hint of sweetness and nutty sesame undertones, makes this stir-fry a flavorful option for any dinner table. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe not only brings vibrant colors to your plate but also packs a nutrition punch. While the pork provides a good source of protein, the variety of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals. Serve it over fluffy rice for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork loin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced pork and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the bell peppers and broccoli; sauté until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce and honey, then pour it over the pork and vegetables. Toss everything to coat well.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve over cooked rice.

Kakuni (Braised Pork Belly)

Kakuni is a delightful Japanese dish known for its tender braised pork belly, which melts in your mouth. The rich flavors come from a combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, giving it a slightly sweet and savory taste that is truly comforting. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

The slow cooking process allows the pork to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a dish that pairs beautifully with a bowl of rice or some steamed vegetables. Plus, the addition of soft-boiled eggs makes it even more satisfying. Here’s how you can make your own Kakuni at home!

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sake
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• Soft-boiled eggs (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the pork belly cubes and blanch for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Braise the Pork: In the same pot, add the soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook: Return the pork belly to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and let it cook on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the pork is tender.
4. Add Eggs (if using): If you’re including soft-boiled eggs, add them to the pot in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
5. Finish and Serve: Once done, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve the Kakuni hot, garnished with green onions, alongside rice or steamed vegetables.

Teriyaki Pork Skewers

Teriyaki pork skewers are a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors that make them a favorite at any gathering. These skewers are simple to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

The juicy pork pieces are coated in a rich teriyaki sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving you that irresistible charred flavor. Served with a sprinkle of green onions, these skewers are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until combined.
2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork cubes in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Skewer the Pork: Thread the marinated pork onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with sliced green onions, and enjoy!