13 of the BEST Lunch & Dinner Recipes From Tastemade Japan

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces salt intake, while tamari is often less costly.

mirin

🥗Healthier: rice vinegar + sugar

💰Cheaper: white wine

Rice vinegar with sugar mimics mirin's sweetness, while white wine is a budget-friendly alternative.

nori

🥗Healthier: seaweed salad

💰Cheaper: lettuce

Seaweed salad offers a similar flavor profile, while lettuce is more accessible.

Prepare cooked rice and let it cool slightly.

Mix ground beef with soy sauce, mirin, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.

Form the beef mixture into patties, ensuring they are compact.

Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.

Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.

While the patties cook, shape the cooled rice into buns, pressing firmly to hold their shape.

Once cooked, place the patties on one rice bun and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Add mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, and pickled vegetables on top of the patty.

Cover with the second rice bun and gently press down to secure.

Serve immediately, with additional soy sauce on the side if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens