Japanese style Hamburger (和風ハンバーグ)
Course: Featured, Japanese, Main Course, UncategorizedAlright, let’s dive into the world of Japanese-style hamburgers, a dish that stands out for its unique sourish zing, thanks to the radish and a special sauce that’s a game changer. What sets this burger apart isn’t just its taste, but its nutritional profile, making it a healthier pick. Blending beef and pork, this recipe brings a mix of proteins to the table, while ingredients like daikon radish and shiso leaves add a fresh and almost peppery twist.
Now, here’s a nugget of history for you: the concept of mixing ingredients from different cultures has been around since the late 19th century in Japan, evolving over time into dishes like this one that blend the Western hamburger with distinctly Japanese flavors. The addition of daikon, a staple in Japanese cuisine known for its digestive health benefits, and the use of shiso, which is packed with vitamins and minerals, makes this burger not only a delight to eat but also a boost to your health.
One of the coolest parts about making this burger is how the radish is grated and drained, which is key to achieving that signature sourish flavor without the sogginess. And let’s not forget the Ponzu sauce—a blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lemon juice—that adds a tangy kick, elevating the whole dish to new heights. This isn’t just any burger; it’s a carefully crafted meal that respects the balance of flavors and nutrition.
Serving it up on shiso leaves instead of a bun is the cherry on top, giving it an authentic touch and adding an extra layer of flavor. Plus, this method of serving cuts down on the carbs, making it an even healthier option. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking to shake up your burger game, this dish is a testament to the delicious harmony of health and flavor. It’s like hitting the gym and the flavor jackpot at the same time!
Now, here’s a nugget of history for you: the concept of mixing ingredients from different cultures has been around since the late 19th century in Japan, evolving over time into dishes like this one that blend the Western hamburger with distinctly Japanese flavors. The addition of daikon, a staple in Japanese cuisine known for its digestive health benefits, and the use of shiso, which is packed with vitamins and minerals, makes this burger not only a delight to eat but also a boost to your health.
One of the coolest parts about making this burger is how the radish is grated and drained, which is key to achieving that signature sourish flavor without the sogginess. And let’s not forget the Ponzu sauce—a blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lemon juice—that adds a tangy kick, elevating the whole dish to new heights. This isn’t just any burger; it’s a carefully crafted meal that respects the balance of flavors and nutrition.
Serving it up on shiso leaves instead of a bun is the cherry on top, giving it an authentic touch and adding an extra layer of flavor. Plus, this method of serving cuts down on the carbs, making it an even healthier option. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking to shake up your burger game, this dish is a testament to the delicious harmony of health and flavor. It’s like hitting the gym and the flavor jackpot at the same time!
Ingredients
Minced mixture of beef and pork 300 g (10.7 oz)
Finely chopped onion 50 g (1.78 oz) or 2 tbsp
Shiso leaves
Finely chopped lotus root 50 g (1.78 oz)
1 egg
2 small daikon radishes or one medium
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp lemon sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
3 tbsp Panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
Sesame oil for frying
Directions
- Grate the Daikon radish on a fine grater. Drain off excess liquid and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion and lotus root, salt, pepper, panko breadcrumbs and chopped shiso leaves.
*Reserve some of the shiso leaves for garnish. We’ll need 2 shiso leaves for garnishing one hamburger.
- Form equally sized hamburgers.
- Fry them in sesame oil under a closed lid until golden brown. It should take about 7 minutes on each side over medium heat.
- Now let’s prepare the Ponzu sauce. To do this, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar and lemon juice. It’s ready!
- Now the final stage. Place the hamburger on a shiso leaf, cover it with a second one, then place grated daikon on top and pour 1 teaspoon of ponzu sauce over it. Do the same with all the hamburger. This dish is traditionally served with rice. This Japanese-style version of the hamburger is healthier and has its unique flavor thanks to shiso leaves, Ponzu sauce and daikon.
