Have you ever had one of those meals that just… clicks? A dish that’s comforting, exciting, and memorable all at once? Shimane Spark Fried Rice is exactly that. It's a vibrant, flavorful dish inspired by the coastal prefecture of Shimane, Japan, known for its stunning sunsets and rich culinary heritage. I remember one time while camping, a friend made something similiar on the bonfire; it was so amazing!
This isn't your average fried rice. What sets Shimane Spark Fried Rice apart is the combination of crispy pork belly, fluffy day-old rice, and a hint of spice from chili flakes. The soy sauce and sake glaze adds a deep umami flavor that’s simply irresistible. Imagine that smoky pork, the aromatics dancing in your nostrils, and that perfect balance of savory and spicy… yeah, it’s that good. I was talking with a friend yesterday and found out that he actually uses this recipe as a way to destress after work. Who knew!
Required Equipments
- Wok
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowls
- Spatula
- Rice Cooker (optional)
Shimane Spark Fried Rice: Frequently Asked Questions
Shimane Spark Fried Rice
Shimane Spark Fried Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish featuring crispy pork belly, day-old rice, and a hint of spice, inspired by the culinary traditions of Shimane, Japan. This recipe offers a comforting and exciting meal experience, combining umami-rich flavors with satisfying textures.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Dice the pork belly into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the ginger, garlic, and green onions. Whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure your day-old rice is broken up and ready to go.
- Cook the Pork: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced pork belly and cook until it's browned and crispy, rendering out some of the fat. Remove the pork from the wok and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the wok.
- Scramble the Eggs: Add the whisked eggs to the wok with the pork fat. Scramble them until they are lightly cooked but still slightly soft. Remove the eggs from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped ginger and garlic to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Add the Rice: Add the day-old cooked rice to the wok. Break it up with a spatula and stir-fry until heated through and slightly toasted, about 3-5 minutes. This part is important to get that nice, slightly crispy texture.
- Incorporate Flavors: Pour the soy sauce and sake over the rice. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes (or more, if you like it spicy). Stir-fry to combine and ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pork and scrambled eggs to the wok. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through. This usually takes another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir in most of the chopped green onions, reserving some for garnish. Give it one last toss. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Shimane Spark Fried Rice!
📝 Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the pork belly with tofu or mushrooms.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: 80mg
