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I first encountered this dish at a small family-run restaurant in Tokyo. The combination of perfectly seasoned meatballs and jammy eggs over rice immediately captured my attention. The meatballs are incredibly tender, seasoned with a blend of traditional Japanese ingredients that give them a unique umami flavor. The soft-boiled eggs create a natural sauce when the yolks break over the rice, bringing all the elements together beautifully.
Why I love this recipe
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it perfectly balances simplicity and flavor. The meatballs are incredibly tender and juicy, while the jammy eggs add a rich, creamy element that transforms simple steamed rice into something extraordinary. I love how each component can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The fresh herbs add both color and freshness, elevating the dish from good to exceptional. It's also incredibly versatile - you can adjust the seasonings to your taste without losing the essence of the dish.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Ground Beef: Mix gently with seasonings
- Sushi Rice: Rinse thoroughly before cooking
- Eggs: Room temperature for consistent cooking
- Fresh Herbs: Chop just before serving
- Soy Sauce: Use for seasoning meat and as condiment
Let's Make These Together
- Prepare the Rice
- Rinse rice thoroughly until water runs clear. Cook using your preferred method until perfectly tender.
- Perfect the Eggs
- Achieve jammy yolks by cooking exactly 6.5 minutes, then shocking in ice water.
- Shape the Meatballs
- Gently mix seasoned meat and form into equal-sized balls for even cooking.
- Final Assembly
- Layer rice, add meatballs and eggs, then garnish with fresh herbs.
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Switch Things Up
I discovered this recipe during my exploration of Japanese home cooking. While traditional recipes often use different types of ground meat, I found that using quality ground beef creates incredibly juicy meatballs. The key is not overworking the meat mixture and ensuring the eggs are cooked just right for that perfect jammy yolk.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this rice bowl with a side of miso soup for an authentic Japanese experience. Add pickled vegetables like cucumber or daikon for a refreshing crunch. A simple green salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil would also complement the rich flavors of the meatballs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, meatballs and eggs can be prepared in advance and reheated gently.
- → What type of meat is best?
80/20 ground beef works best for juicy meatballs.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- → Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, freeze raw or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
- → What herbs work best?
Parsley, chives, or shiso leaves complement the dish well.
Conclusion
This Japanese-inspired meatball rice bowl combines the comfort of tender meatballs with perfectly cooked rice and jammy eggs. It's a balanced meal that's both satisfying and visually appealing, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.