Kani Zosui is a delicate and flavorful Japanese rice porridge made with crab meat, dashi broth, and silky egg. This dish is light yet deeply satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy meal or a gentle dish when you’re feeling under the weather. Follow this easy one-pot recipe to enjoy a comforting bowl of crab zosui at home!
Crab Rice Porridge (Kani Zosui)
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆1
servings20
minutes20
minutesIngredients
- Main Ingredients:
30g (about 1 oz) snow crab meat (Zuwaigani), shelled (Substitute: Imitation crab or cooked shrimp if needed)
100g (½ cup) cooked rice (Japanese short-grain rice recommended)
1 egg, lightly beaten
Chopped green onions, for garnish
- For the Broth:
250ml (1 cup) water
1 tsp hondashi (Japanese dashi powder) (Substitute: ½ tsp chicken bouillon powder for umami boost)
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp mirin (Substitute: ½ tsp sugar + ½ tsp sake if unavailable)
A pinch of salt, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Rice & Egg
Place cooked rice in a strainer and rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch (this helps keep the porridge light and smooth).
Let the rice drain well.
Beat 1 egg in a small bowl and set aside. - Make the Broth
In a small pot or donabe (Japanese clay pot), add water, dashi powder, soy sauce, mirin, and salt.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. - Cook the Rice
Once the broth is simmering, add the rinsed rice to the pot.
Reduce to low heat and let the rice simmer gently for about 5 minutes, absorbing the flavors. - Add Egg & Crab
When the rice becomes soft and slightly thickens, slowly drizzle in the beaten egg in a circular motion.
Let the egg set for about 30 seconds without stirring.
Add the crab meat and gently mix.
Taste and adjust salt if needed. - Serve & Enjoy!
Turn off the heat and let the zosui sit for 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- ✔ For a richer flavor: Use kombu dashi or seafood stock instead of water.
✔ For a thicker consistency: Simmer longer to break down the rice.
✔ For extra umami: Add a splash of yuzu juice or a small piece of butter before serving.
✔ For a heartier meal: Serve with grilled fish, pickled vegetables, or miso soup on the side.
✔ For meal prep: Cook extra zosui and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.