One evening, while wandering through a bustling food market in Tokyo, I stumbled upon a tiny eatery hidden in a quiet alley. The scent of sizzling beef and savory sauces filled the air. I watched as the chef expertly seared thick slices of steak, placing them over a steaming bowl of rice, then drizzled a golden scallion-infused salt sauce on top. One bite, and I was hooked—the umami-packed flavors, the tender steak, and the simplicity of a perfectly crafted donburi.
Back home, I knew I had to recreate this comforting bowl. With just a few simple ingredients, this Japanese steak donburi has become a favorite quick meal, perfect for satisfying those cravings for something both hearty and elegant.
Japanese Steak Donburi with Scallion Salt Sauce Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 2):
For the Steak & Donburi:
- 250g (8oz) ribeye or sirloin steak
- 1½ cups cooked Japanese rice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
For the Scallion Salt Sauce:
- 3 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon grated garlic
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
For Garnish:
- 1 soft-boiled egg (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Thinly sliced nori (seaweed)
Instructions:
1. Make the Scallion Salt Sauce
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped scallions, salt, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated garlic, and ginger.
- Heat the sesame oil in a small pan until it starts shimmering, then carefully pour it over the scallion mixture. Stir well and set aside.
2. Cook the Steak
- Pat the steak dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side (for medium-rare) or adjust to your preferred doneness.
- Add butter to the pan and baste the steak with the melted butter for extra richness.
- Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.
3. Assemble the Donburi
- Spoon warm Japanese rice into a bowl.
- Arrange the sliced steak on top.
- Drizzle with the scallion salt sauce and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and nori.
- Serve with a soft-boiled egg for extra richness.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
🥩 Juicy, Tender Steak – Perfectly seared for a rich, umami-packed bite
🍚 Comfort in a Bowl – A satisfying mix of rice, steak, and bold flavors
🌿 Savory & Aromatic – The scallion salt sauce adds an irresistible depth
⏱ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
