Nikumaki: My Mom’s Comfort Food Classic
This recipe holds a special place in my heart—it’s my absolute favorite from Mom’s kitchen. I could easily eat an entire plate of her Nikumaki! The perfect bite of savory meat wrapped around veggies, paired with a bowl of fluffy rice, brings me right back home. Every time I make it, I feel that same warmth and comfort.
What is Nikumaki?
Nikumaki is a delicious Japanese dish where thinly sliced meat (usually pork, beef, or chicken) is wrapped around vegetables or other tasty fillings. Then, it’s pan-fried or grilled to create juicy, flavorful rolls.
Why You’ll Love It
A Unique Flavor Combo: The savory meat and fresh veggies come together for an irresistible flavor that’s hard to forget. The seasoning or marinade adds layers of deliciousness to every bite.
Endless Variations: One of the things I love most about Nikumaki is its versatility! You can switch up the fillings—try pairing pork with asparagus, or experiment with new combos that suit your taste.
Pure Comfort: Whether it’s a hearty appetizer or part of a main meal, Nikumaki is Japanese comfort food at its finest. It’s a dish that will warm your heart, no matter where you are.
Where to Find Nikumaki in Japan
If you’re in Japan, there are some fantastic spots to try Nikumaki:
Nikumaki Honpo (Fukuoka): Famous for their delicious rice-stuffed pork rolls, this specialty store is a must-visit for Nikumaki lovers. Check them out here.
Torimaru Izakaya (Tokyo): A cozy izakaya in the heart of Tokyo, known for its creative take on traditional Nikumaki. A great spot for dinner with friends! Visit their site here.
Osaka Izakaya Kawakita (Osaka): Enjoy a local twist on Nikumaki at this popular izakaya, offering a variety of fillings and flavors. Discover more here.
Let’s Enjoy Nikumaki
Whether you’re trying it in Japan or making it at home, Nikumaki is a dish that’s full of flavor, comfort, and versatility. Give it a try and savor the taste of Japanese home cooking!
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat and Enoki Mushrooms:
- Lay out a slice of pork or beef on a clean surface.
- Place a small bundle of enoki mushrooms (or half an asparagus) at one end of the meat slice.
- Roll the meat tightly around the enoki mushrooms, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with the remaining meat and enoki mushrooms.
2. Cook the Nikumaki:
- Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Place the nikumaki seam side down in the pan and cook until the meat is golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally. Brush with the sauce mixture during cooking.
Nikumaki (Pork belly wrapped asparagus and enoki)
Ingredients
- 8 - 10 slices thinly sliced pork belly
- 1 small bundle enoki mushrooms
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tbsp oil
- 2 tbsp sake
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions
- Cut the pork belly in half so they are about 8 cm (3 inches) long
- Rip apart a small bundle of enoki mushrooms and dip the bottoms in the cornstarch.
- Wrap the pork belly around the enoki mushroom until most of it is wrapped.
- Mix together the mirin, soy sauce and sake.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Place the nikumaki (wraps) seam side down in the pan and cook until meat is golden brown and cooked through. Turning so all sides are browned, on the last side, pour the sauce over all the pork belly wraps.
- Cook until the sauce is slightly thickened. Turn the heat off.
- Serve and enjoy!
