Salmon Gohan in 4 Easy Steps

Friends of Paulina Cocina, we know that there are many types of rice in the world and although it may surprise you, we surely know very few varieties. In the case of gohan, It is a rice that is consumed in Japan as an ingredient or as a main dish..

Why is it so sought after as part of the oriental diet? Because it is appreciated for its versatility and ability to adapt to a variety of flavors and cooking styles. And if I didn’t convince you with this to know more, I know that you will be convinced when you see that the recipe is so simple that It is done in 4 steps. Of course, as always we give you the tips and data so that it fits you perfectly.

About gohan, a dish and an ingredient

The gohan plate, in the japanese cuisine, does not refer to a specific dish, but to cooked rice, which is a fundamental component in the daily diet. The word “gohan” used to describe both cooked rice itself and a complete meal. In the Japanese culinary context, this dish is a versatile base that accompanies various dishes, from fish and meat to vegetables.

The quality of the rice and its preparation are essential to achieve a perfect texture. The cultural importance highlights its central role in the Japanese diet and its adaptability in various preparations.

What does the word gohan mean?

The word “gohan” in Japanese It is made up of two characters: “go” meaning “cooked” or “cooked food” and “han” meaning “rice”. The name reflects the cultural importance of rice in the Japanese diet and highlights its preparation as a staple food.

This term illustrates the centrality of rice in Japanese cuisine and the symbolic richness that this grain has in daily life and the country’s cultural identity. Although we can also find emblematic recipes without rice such as miso soup, yakisoba and mochi.

What is the ideal rice for gohan?

Rice for gohan, in Japanese cuisine, is a crucial component that requires care and attention during preparation. The most commonly used type of rice is short grain rice.known as “Japanese rice” or “glutinous rice.”

This rice is essential to achieve characteristic sticky and soft texture. Before cooking, the rice is washed to remove excess starch, improving its consistency. The Water ratio and cooking method are critical to ensuring the rice reaches the proper consistency.

The quality of the rice is essential, since it directly influences the culinary experience, offering a perfectly cooked grain for various Japanese dishes, including the so-called plated sushi.

Curious facts for the perfect gohan

When it comes to preparing the gohan recipe, there are several techniques and styles that can be employed. Cooking rice is a fundamental process, and the quality of the dish will depend largely on how this step is prepared.

In traditional Japanese cuisine, special attention to the texture and flavor of the riceseeking to achieve a perfect balance that complements the other components of the dish.

A variant that has gained popularity is the salmon gohan. This preparation combines the characteristic softness and flavor of salmon with neutral rice base. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Chicken Gohan for those who don’t want fish

He chicken gohan It is a variant of Japanese rice that incorporates chicken as the main ingredient. Combining the softness of rice with the juiciness and flavor of chickenthis preparation creates a comforting and satisfying dish.

The chicken can be cooked in various ways, such as grilled, steamed or stir-fried, before being mixed with the rice. It fuses the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavors, providing a versatile and delicious option in Japanese cuisine. The combination of proteins and carbohydrates in the chicken recipe makes it a balanced and nutritious option.

chinese version of gohan

In Chinese cuisine, gohan It is known as “mifan” and is essential in most meals. Unlike Japanese rice, Chinese rice, often long grain, is served as a side dish or main dish.

Can be fried, steamed or boiledand is commonly accompanied by a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and seafood. This Chinese rice reflects the country’s culinary diversity, with different regions contributing their own unique techniques and flavors. The importance of rice in Chinese cuisine highlights its versatility and central role in the daily diet.

6 facts to write down and not forget

1. Dual Meaning: In Japanese, “Gohan” not only refers to cooked rice, but is also used informally to describe a complete meal.
2. Food Ritual: In Japan, it is considered good manners to leave a small pile of rice undisturbed on the plate at the end of the meal, indicating that the person has been adequately fed.
3. Cultural Symbolism: Rice has deep cultural meaning in Japan, being associated with prosperity, fertility and spiritual connection.
4. Rice Varieties: There are different varieties of rice used, with short grain rice being the most common, known for its sticky texture.
5. Washing Technique: Before cooking, the rice is washed to remove excess starch, improving its texture and flavor.
6. Versatility: It can be served as a side dish or as a main dish, and its versatility allows it to adapt to a wide variety of flavors and culinary styles.

Follow me on Instagram (here)

And on YouTube I upload new videos every week (click here)

gohan recipe

Yield: 4 portions

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups Japanese short grain rice
• 2 1/2 cups of water
• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Sal

The easiest and fastest way to make gohan

1. Place the rice in a bowl and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and improves the texture of the rice.
2. Place the rice and water in a rice cooker or saucepan. Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the water.
3. After cooking, let the rice rest, covered, for about 10 minutes. This completes the steaming process and improves the texture.
4. Mix a small amount of rice vinegar, sugar and salt and heat it slightly. Add the cooked rice, stirring slowly.