You are probably familiar with sushi and bento, but maybe you are less familiar with a traditional Japanese dish called donburi. It is essentially a meal served in a bowl, prepared with rice, meat or fish, and vegetables. Though simple, donburi is flavorful and satisfying, especially when made with high-quality seafood. The origins of donburi are traced back to the 1600s and consisted of rice topped with grilled eel. Whether eaten quickly on the go or as a wholesome sit-down meal, it is enjoyed by many still today.

What Are the Main Ingredients in Donburi?

1. Rice

The foundational component of donburi is the rice. Often, it could be one of three choices: white rice, sushi rice, or brown rice. Sushi rice—made with short-grain rice and often referred to as sticky rice—is the most commonly used in donburi. 

Its distinctive flavor is created by combining the rice with vinegar, salt, and sugar. The rice is meant to complement the fish or meat and to make the dish more substantial and filling.  

2. Meat or Seafood 

For donburi, high-quality seafood, such as ahi (tuna), unagi (freshwater eel), Hamachi (fish), or salmon, is often used, whether it is raw or cooked. The raw fish is sometimes marinated and flavored with Mentsuyu, which is a Japanese sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and rice wine.

Instead of seafood and fish, rice bowls are sometimes topped with breaded and fried pork cutlets, grilled chicken, or strips of beef. The meat is often simmered with onions and other vegetables, eggs, and broth to create a depth of flavor.

3. Vegetables

Pickled ginger root, spicy kimchi, and julienned daikon or radishes are some of the most common toppings or sides offered with donburi. Pickled ginger, which usually accompanies sushi to cleanse the palate between bites, is also frequently served vegetable side with donburi. No matter what vegetables are used, they offer a refreshing, crunchy counterpart to the rich meat or delicate fish and the steamed rice it accompanies.

For high-quality seafood and authentic Japanese meals, look no further than Ahi and Vegetable in Honolulu, HI. Their two locations feature many fresh choices and offer the most enticing menu items. From local Hawaiian ahi and tasty bento specials to donburi meals and catering platters, they have it all. Check out their website for offerings or call (808) 845-3500 to learn more.