Authentic Japanese Tamago Kake Gohan Recipe: A Comforting Bowl of Egg and Rice

Ingredients

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup of freshly cooked white rice (Japanese short grain rice preferred)
  • Soy sauce, to taste
  • Furikake or chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Cook the rice according to the instructions on the package or in a rice cooker. If using a rice cooker, fill to the appropriate water level for 1 cup of rice.
  2. Once the rice is cooked, scoop it while still hot into a bowl.
  3. Crack the egg into a separate bowl and beat it lightly.
  4. Pour the beaten egg over the hot rice. The heat from the rice will lightly cook the egg.
  5. Add a few dashes of soy sauce to taste and mix well.
  6. If desired, garnish with furikake or chopped green onions.
  7. Serve immediately while still hot.

Tools for making

  • Bowl - A bowl to mix the beaten egg and rice together.
  • Spoon - A spoon to scoop the cooked rice into a bowl.
  • Rice Cooker or Pot - A rice cooker or pot to cook the white rice.
  • Chopsticks or Fork - Utensils to mix the beaten egg, rice, and soy sauce together.
  • Optional: Furikake Shaker - A shaker to sprinkle furikake onto the Tamago kake gohan for added flavor (optional).

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked diced bacon or ham for a protein-packed version.
  • Top with sliced avocado or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds or nori flakes on top for added flavor and texture.
  • Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • Mix in a spoonful of miso paste for an umami-rich flavor.
  • Try using brown rice or mixed grains instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.
  • Add a splash of Japanese rice vinegar for a tangy kick.
  • Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or veggies for a vegetarian option.

Recipe overview

Tamago kake gohan (or TKG, as it's affectionately known amongst fans) is a simple yet flavorful Japanese dish that shines in its simplicity. This recipe takes a mere few ingredients and combines them to create a warm, comforting bowl of rice lightly cooked with a beaten egg. Often finished off with a splash of soy sauce for added umami and garnished with furikake or chopped green onions, TKG is a beloved staple in many Japanese homes. Quick to prepare and satisfying to eat, this dish is a testament to the beauty of simple, homey Japanese cuisine. Prepare to fall in love with the creamy texture and comforting taste of Tamago kake gohan!

Common questions

  1. Can I use any type of rice for Tamago kake gohan?
    It is recommended to use Japanese short grain rice for the best results.
  2. How do I cook the rice?
    You can cook the rice according to the instructions on the package or in a rice cooker. If using a rice cooker, fill to the appropriate water level for 1 cup of rice.
  3. Can I use more than one egg?
    Yes, you can use more than one egg depending on your preference. Adjust the amount of beaten egg accordingly.
  4. Can I add other ingredients or toppings?
    Absolutely! Tamago kake gohan can be customized with additional ingredients such as nori, sesame seeds, or even sliced avocado. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
  5. Is it safe to eat raw egg in Tamago kake gohan?
    While consuming raw eggs carries a risk of foodborne illness, it is generally considered safe to consume raw eggs in Japan as long as they are fresh and handled properly. However, it is always recommended to use fresh, high-quality eggs to minimize any potential risks.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rice cooker - A rice cooker is a convenient tool for cooking the rice perfectly.
  • Bowl - A bowl is needed to hold the cooked rice and mix it with the egg and soy sauce.
  • Whisk or fork - A whisk or fork is used to beat the egg before pouring it over the rice.
  • Soy sauce dispenser - A soy sauce dispenser or small bottle makes it easy to add soy sauce to the dish.
  • Furikake shaker - A furikake shaker is used to sprinkle furikake, a Japanese rice seasoning, over the dish as a garnish (optional).

Origin stories

Tamago kake gohan, or TKG as it's affectionately known in Japan, is a quintessential Japanese comfort food. Its simplicity belies an extraordinary culinary tradition. Eggs in Japan are often consumed raw, thanks to strict poultry farming regulations ensuring their freshness and safety. The dish is so beloved in Japanese culture, there's even a dedicated restaurant in Tokyo called "TKG Stop" that serves only variations of tamago kake gohan. Eating TKG is also considered a rite of passage for children learning to use chopsticks, as the dish is a perfect training ground for mastering the delicate art of manipulating these utensils. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack, TKG is a humble dish enjoyed at any time of the day.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases after you click on affiliate product links (thanks for that). But we hope the links will be relevant and beneficial to you as well.