Shiitake Donburi from Wagamama features tender shiitake mushrooms sauteed with savory soy sauce and fresh vegetables, served over a bed of steamed rice, presenting a hearty and aromatic Japanese-inspired bowl that's both nutritious and satisfying.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium saucepan (for rice)
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Rice cooker (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) short-grain Japanese rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 8 oz (225g) fresh shiitake mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Using fresh shiitake mushrooms is crucial for achieving the authentic flavor and tender texture characteristic of Shiitake Donburi. Short-grain Japanese rice is preferred as it provides the right stickiness and consistency to complement the sauteed vegetables and savory sauce. Soy sauce, mirin, and sake must be balanced carefully to create the signature umami-rich taste Wagamama is known for. Fresh vegetables like onion, carrot, bell pepper, and baby spinach add both nutrition and vibrant color to the dish. Your homemade Shiitake Donburi from Wagamama copycat menu will offer a wholesome and aromatic meal that mirrors the restaurant experience closely.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Rinse the rice until water runs clear.
- Combine rice and 1 1/2 cups water in a saucepan (or rice cooker).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Wipe shiitake mushrooms clean, remove stems, and slice caps.
- Peel and thinly slice the onion.
- Peel and julienne the carrot.
- Core and slice the red bell pepper into thin strips.
- Thinly slice green onions for garnish; set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and carrot; sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add shiitake mushrooms and red bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until mushrooms are tender.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sake, sesame oil, and sugar.
- Add the sauce to the vegetables and stir, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add baby spinach and toss until just wilted.
- Fluff cooked rice and divide among serving bowls.
- Spoon the mushroom and vegetable mixture over the rice.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Shiitake Donburi from Wagamama copycat menu highlights the rich flavor of shiitake mushrooms simmered in a savory soy-based sauce with fresh vegetables over steamed Japanese rice. If fresh shiitake mushrooms are unavailable, dried shiitake soaked in warm water can be used as an effective substitute, adding an even deeper umami flavor. You can replace sake with a splash of dry white wine or omit it altogether, balancing the flavors with a little extra mirin. Use any short-grain rice if Japanese rice is hard to find, as it provides the best texture for donburi. Avoid overcrowding the pan when sauteing mushrooms to ensure they cook evenly and retain their tenderness.
Tips
Rinsing the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear is crucial to remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky. When cooking the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they saute evenly and develop a rich, savory flavor. Be careful not to overcook the spinach; it should be tossed in just until wilted to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients. Your green onions and sesame seeds provide the final flavorful touch, so add them fresh just before serving for the best aroma and texture.
Nutritions
Shiitake Donburi provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, with short-grain Japanese rice offering complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. The shiitake mushrooms supply valuable dietary fiber, B vitamins, and important minerals like copper and selenium, supporting immune function and metabolism. Fresh vegetables, including spinach, bell pepper, and carrot, contribute essential vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that promote overall health. This dish is low in saturated fat, and the use of soy sauce and sesame oil adds beneficial plant-based compounds while enhancing your meal's umami flavor.
Storage
Store leftover Shiitake Donburi in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Keep the rice and mushroom mixture separate if possible to prevent sogginess. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet until heated through, ensuring your meal stays flavorful and safe to eat.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap shiitake mushrooms with oyster or cremini mushrooms for a different texture while maintaining umami richness. Use brown rice instead of short-grain Japanese rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, adjusting water and cooking time accordingly. Incorporate tofu cubes or cooked shredded chicken to boost protein content and create a more filling donburi bowl. Toast the sesame seeds lightly before garnishing to enhance their nutty aroma and crunchiness, elevating the dish's overall texture.
Allergies
Shiitake Donburi contains soy sauce, which includes soy, a common allergen that may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Sesame oil and sesame seeds are also present, posing a risk for those with sesame allergies. If you have food allergies, be sure to check all ingredients carefully to avoid any adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Wagamama's Shitake Donburi features rich umami flavors from the fresh shitake mushrooms paired with perfectly steamed rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The dish combines authentic Japanese ingredients with a harmonious blend of soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil, elevating its taste to a savory delight. Your attempt to make the copycat version allows you to enjoy this restaurant-quality experience at home, customizing the flavors to your liking and ensuring freshness. Many appreciate the balance of nutrition and taste in Shitake Donburi, making it a beloved choice for mushroom lovers and health-conscious diners.