Shogayaki, which features the perfect combination of pork and ginger, is a popular dish in Japan and is also known for its fatigue-reducing properties. It is both delicious and nutritious.
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What is Shogayaki ?
Shogayaki is a dish made by sautéing pork with a sauce made from ginger and Japanese seasonings. "Shoga" means ginger, and "yaki" stands for sautéing. While the name of the dish may sound like it is just sautéing ginger, "shogayaki" refers to a dish in which pork is cooked with a ginger-based sauce.
Ginger is known for its ability to reduce the odor of meat and oil, and it also contains components that tenderize meat. Therefore, pork and ginger are considered to be a great combination, making this dish delicious.
Exploring the fatigue-reducing properties
Shogayaki also possesses fatigue-reducing properties. Pork and ginger, both primary ingredients in this dish, contain components that contribute to keeping you in good shape.
Pork is rich in vitamin B1, which converts carbohydrates into energy and helps relieve fatigue. Additionally, ginger contains shogaols and gingerol, which warm the body and regulate the gastrointestinal tract. Due to these benefits, shogayaki is said to energize the body.
Choosing the suitable cut of pork
To prepare this dish, there are primarily two cuts of pork that work well: pork shoulder and pork loin. Shoulder meat offers a good balance of fat and lean, while loin meat provides a fine texture.
Both cuts are suitable, so feel free to try it with your preferred type of pork. Regardless of your choice, it is common to slice it to a thickness of about 0.14 inch (3-4 mm).
Serving suggestions
Shogayaki can be enjoyed on its own, but it is commonly served with shredded green cabbage. This not only complements the flavor of shogayaki but also adds brightness to the dish with its vibrant color. Using hakusai (napa cabbage) instead of green cabbage also pairs well. Feel free to serve it according to your preference.
Ingredients
- 9 oz. (250g) sliced pork shoulder / loin (thickness: 0.14 inch/3-4 mm)
- 0.7 oz. (20g) ginger
- 3.5 oz. (100g) onion
- 4.2 oz. (120g) green cabbage
Seasonings:
- 1 Tbsp sake
- 2 Tbsp mirin
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
Step-by-step instructions
🕒 Total 15 mins
Step 1
Peel and grate the ginger. Mix the grated ginger with seasonings (sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce) in a bowl.
Step 2
Slice the onion into 0.3 inch (8mm) thick pieces. Cut the cabbage into thin strips.
Step 3
Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onion over medium heat. When it becomes slightly translucent, move it to the edge of the pan. Then, add the pork, overlapping as little as possible, and cook it on both sides until browned.
Step 4
Add the seasoning liquid from the bowl to the pan. Cook the mixture, turning the pork occasionally, until most of the liquid has reduced.
Step 5
Serve the pork on plates with shredded cabbage on the side.
To Store
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips on how to make
- Avoid overcooking the pork more than necessary. If cooked too long, it will become tough.
- The seasoning liquid should be added after the pork is browned. If it is added first, it will burn before the pork is cooked.
Recipe Card
Shogayaki (Japanese Ginger Pork)
Ingredients
- 9 oz. (250g) sliced pork shoulder / loin (thickness: 0.14 inch/3-4 mm)
- 0.7 oz. (20g) ginger
- 3.5 oz. (100g) onion
- 4.2 oz. (120g) green cabbage
Seasonings:
- 1 Tbsp sake
- 2 Tbsp mirin
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
Instructions
- Peel and grate the ginger. Mix the grated ginger with seasonings (sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce) in a bowl.
- Slice the onion into 0.3 inch (8mm) thick pieces. Cut the cabbage into thin strips.
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onion over medium heat. When it becomes slightly translucent, move it to the edge of the pan. Then, add the pork, overlapping as little as possible, and cook it on both sides until browned.
- Add the seasoning liquid from the bowl to the pan. Cook the mixture, turning the pork occasionally, until most of the liquid has reduced.
- Serve the pork on plates with shredded cabbage on the side.
Notes
- You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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