An Ordinary Japanese Guy

This was one of the dishes from my dinner yesterday. ​It’s called Tamago Kake Gohan (TKG)—literally, raw egg over rice. ​I made a small well in the center of the freshly cooked rice, which was boiled in a donabe (clay pot), and dropped a raw egg right into it. Then, I sprinkled katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) around the egg and drizzled some soy sauce over everything. ​To finish it off, you thoroughly mix the egg in the center and the soy sauce-soaked bonito flakes right into the hot rice. ​While it’s an incredibly simple dish to make, it’s mind-blowingly delicious. ​Before I knew it, it was all gone. ​What kind of dish do you have in your country that is super simple to make but incredibly delicious? Let me know in the comments!

Yesterday, I cooked the most delicious rice ever! ​In Japan, most people use electric rice cookers, but if you want the absolute best flavor, you use a Donabe (a traditional Japanese clay pot) over a gas flame. ​It takes a little bit of effort, but the result is worth it. Here is my method: 1.​Wash about 300g (2 cups) of rice and let it soak in water for 30 minutes. 2.​Cook in the Donabe over medium-high heat until it starts to boil (about 7-8 minutes). 3.​Once boiling, turn the heat to low and simmer for another 7 minutes. 4.​For the grand finale, turn the heat to high for about 40 seconds to create Okoge (crispy, browned rice at the bottom). 5.​Turn off the heat and let it steam for 10 minutes. 6.​Mix gently from the bottom, serve it in a bowl, and enjoy! ​It’s mysterious how truly delicious rice can be. When it’s cooked this way, it’s so tasty that I find myself going for second or even third helpings, even without any side dishes!

Today’s lunch is what I’d call "The Standard Japanese Home Meal." ​It’s a simple spread: white rice, grilled "Abura-age" (deep-fried tofu), miso soup, spinach with sesame dressing (Goma-ae), fresh tofu, and natto. ​On top of the rice, I’ve sprinkled some powdered green tea and a pinch of salt. The subtle bitterness of the tea combined with the savory saltiness makes the rice incredibly delicious! ​Except for the rice and the spinach, I bought everything at my local supermarket. ​Whether you stay at a high-end Ryokan or eat out at a restaurant, you’ll rarely find a meal this "ordinary." But this is exactly the kind of food that sustains our daily lives. That’s why I wanted to share it with you—if you ever have the chance, I’d love for you to try this kind of real Japanese home cooking!