Shirasu Gohan is a simple and nutritious Japanese rice bowl topped with delicate whitebait (shirasu), fragrant myoga (Japanese ginger), and nutty sesame seeds. Lightly seasoned with men-tsuyu (noodle sauce), this dish is quick, healthy, and perfect for a light meal. Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to enjoy a traditional Japanese shirasu rice bowl at home!
Shirasu Gohan
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆1
servings10
minutes10
minutesIngredients
1 bowl of steamed rice (Japanese short-grain rice recommended)
Shirasu (whitebait), enough to cover the rice (Substitute: Small dried anchovies or cooked baby shrimp if unavailable)
1 myoga, thinly sliced (Substitute: Chopped scallions if unavailable)
A pinch of white sesame seeds
1 tsp men-tsuyu (4x concentrated noodle sauce) (Substitute: ½ tsp soy sauce + ½ tsp dashi stock if needed)
Directions
- Prepare the Rice
Scoop steamed rice into a serving bowl. - Add the Shirasu
Evenly spread the shirasu over the surface of the rice. - Garnish with Myoga & Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle thinly sliced myoga and white sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and texture. - Drizzle with Men-Tsuyu
Lightly drizzle men-tsuyu (noodle soup base) over the top to enhance the umami flavor. - Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy this light, refreshing, and nutritious Japanese rice bowl!
Notes
- ✔ For extra flavor: Add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or grated yuzu zest.
✔ For a heartier meal: Serve with a soft-boiled egg or natto (fermented soybeans) on top.
✔ For a crunchier texture: Sprinkle crispy tempura bits (tenkasu) as a topping.
✔ For a seafood twist: Mix in a spoonful of ikura (salmon roe) for an umami boost.
✔ Storage: Shirasu is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.