Thinly sliced beef simmered in a sweet and savory sauce with onions, served over rice with a generous helping of pickled ginger (beni shoga).
Cook the rice according to package directions or your preferred method.
In a large skillet or pot, combine dashi, soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
Add the thinly sliced onions to the simmering sauce. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Increase the heat slightly and add the thinly sliced beef to the pot. Separate the beef slices as you add them to ensure they cook evenly. Cook until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, about 3-5 minutes. Do not overcook.
Spoon a generous portion of cooked rice into each bowl.
Top the rice with the beef and onion mixture, making sure to include plenty of the sauce.
Garnish with a generous amount of pickled ginger (beni shoga) and chopped green onions, if desired.
Serve immediately.
Nutrition per serving (400g)
For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce at the end.
If you don't have sake, you can substitute with a dry sherry or omit it entirely.
Adjust the sugar to your liking. Some people prefer a sweeter gyudon.
Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef. Cook in batches if necessary.
A soft-boiled egg or onsen tamago (Japanese hot spring egg) is a popular topping for gyudon.
Large skillet or pot
Rice cooker or saucepan
No wine pairing suggestions available for this recipe.