Okinawan Taco Rice Bowl

Popular in Japan, this dish is a mash-up of Tex-Mex and Japanese comfort food. The combination of Japanese flavor (soy, ginger, miso) and Tex-Mex (cumin, chili, paprika) might sound misplaced, but it all comes together in a hearty and filling bowl that's vibrant and bold in spice. It's got enough contrasting textures and temperatures (crunchy lettuce, chewy sushi rice, hot ground beef, and melty cheese).

Ingredients:

For Taco bowls

  • 2 cups short-grain sushi rice or arborio rice
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mild white cheese like Gruyere, asiago, or mozzarela)
  • 2 cups shredded iceberg or romain lettuce
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 tablespoon chili flakes
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sweet miso paste, dissolved in 1/2 cup water
For the salsa
  • 3/4 cup diced fresh tomatoes
  • 50 milliliters rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon mirin
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 small red chili, minced (optional, only if you like heat)
Instructions
  • Put the rice with 2 cups cold water and a pinch of salt in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer, cover, and cook until tender and the water is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  • To make the beef, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add beef and stir to break up any lumps, cooking for about 4 minutes until well-browned.
  • Add the chili flakes, cumin, coriander, and paprika, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Add the soy sauce and miso/water blend. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and the liquid is mostly cooked. Remove the heat.
  • To make the salsa: combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and mix well.
  • Divide the rice between four bowls. Top with the seasoned beef, lettuce, shredded cheese, and salsa. If you want a more filling meal, add sliced avocado and/or an egg.

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