Even if you follow all the tips and instructions, sometimes rice just doesn’t come out right. Don’t worry—if your Japanese rice is too hard, there are easy ways to save it. In this post, I’ll show you how to fix undercooked rice and repurpose the rice so nothing goes to waste!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

04.04.2025

Teriyaki Mushroom Rice Bowl - Chef JA Cooks

Quick and easy teriyaki mushrooms! This simple vegan rice dish has sweet and savory flavors and is made with tender king oyster mushrooms!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

03.04.2025

3 Types of Natto: Whole Beans, Hikiwari, and Goto Natto - Chef JA Cooks

Natto is known for its sticky texture and strong smell, but did you know there are different types? In this post, I’ll introduce three types of natto. If you're curious to learn more about natto,

Chef JA Cooks Blog

25.03.2025

Vegan Soy Hambagu (Japanese-Style Hamburger Steak) - Chef JA Cooks

This vegan soy hambagu is made with soy meat, simple ingredients, and a delicious Japanese twist. Easy to make, super satisfying, and packed with a meaty texture—give it a try!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

21.03.2025

Vegan Mapo Tofu Onigirazu - Chef JA Cooks

This vegan-friendly recipe transforms leftover mapo tofu into a flavor-packed onigirazu, a Japanese rice sandwich. Perfect for a satisfying plant-based meal!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

20.03.2025

Vegetarian Tamagoyaki Onigirazu - Chef JA Cooks

This vegetarian tamagoyaki onigirazu is a flavorful Japanese rice sandwich packed with soft eggs, crisp lettuce, and seasoned bell peppers. Easy to make and perfect for lunch or a meal on the go!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

20.03.2025

Tuna Mayo Onigirazu - Chef JA Cooks

This onigirazu is easy, delicious, and perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The creamy tuna and mayo make the perfect filling for this Japanese rice sandwich! Give it a try!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

18.03.2025

Takenoko (Bamboo Shoots): Spring Vegetable in Japan - Chef JA Cooks

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, seasonal vegetables, and takenoko—bamboo shoots—are one of the best! Let me share how we enjoyed them!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

12.03.2025

[Physical Cookbook] From Japan with Flavor: Vegetarian - Chef JA Cooks

Experience the heart of Japanese cooking with From Japan With Flavor: VEGETARIAN! This physical cookbook features over 80 delicious vegetarian recipes, perfect for making nutritious and authentic Japanese meals at home!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

07.03.2025

Japanese Tamago Sando with Whole Egg - Chef JA Cooks

Try this simple and tasty Tamago Sando recipe! This delicious sandwich features a whole soft-boiled egg in the center with a perfectly runny yolk!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

04.03.2025

Hinamatsuri: What’s on the Menu for Girls’ Day? - Chef JA Cooks

Have you ever heard of Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day in Japan? Let’s dive into what this day is all about and, of course, the festive foods that come with it!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

01.03.2025

Taste of Spring: Sakura-Colored Foods! - Chef JA Cooks

Today, I’m sharing some adorable sakura-colored foods you can find during this season, from delicate pink soba to sweet sakura-flavored treats! If you’re in Japan during sakura season, don’t miss out on these limited-time foods!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

27.02.2025

Tamarizuke: The Rich, Flavorful Pickles of Nikko - Chef JA Cooks

Tamarizuke is a Japanese pickle made by soaking vegetables in "Tamari," the liquid that rises to the top during the miso fermentation process.

Chef JA Cooks Blog

27.02.2025

Japanese Daikon & Lentil Curry (Vegan) - Chef JA Cooks

Looking for a new way to enjoy daikon radish? Try this delicious Japanese-style daikon curry with lentils. Serve it over rice for a hearty meal!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

25.02.2025

5 Easy Onigiri with Canned Tuna - Chef JA Cooks

Looking for new ways to enjoy tuna onigiri? Classic tuna mayo is a favorite, but there are plenty of ways to switch it up! Try these flavorful variations for a bento box or a quick snack on the go!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

20.02.2025

Baked Tofu with Cheese (Tofu Gratin) - Chef JA Cooks

This baked tofu with cheese is a comforting dish with creamy tofu, a rich miso flavor, melted cheese, and plenty of vegetables. It’s the perfect choice for a light, flavorful vegetarian meal!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

11.02.2025

[eBook] Everyday Tofu: 14 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Tofu - Chef JA Cooks

Discover simple and flavorful cooking with "Everyday Tofu: 14 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Tofu.” If you love tofu or want to start cooking with it, this eBook is for you! Inside, you’ll find 14 easy, delicious tofu recipes, each with a video link to guide you step by step. It’s the perfect way to explore new ways to cook tofu with authentic Japanese flavors!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

11.02.2025

14 Easy Vegetarian Tofu Recipes (With Video Tutorials!) - Chef JA Cooks

Here are 14 easy vegetarian tofu recipes that are simple and delicious and come with step-by-step video tutorials! Just watch, follow along, and enjoy delicious tofu dishes every time!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

24.01.2025

7 Savory Takikomi Gohan Recipes (Japanese Mixed Rice) - Chef JA Cooks

Bring the flavors of Japan to your table with Takikomi Gohan! This easy mixed rice dish is hearty and delicious, and pairs well with classic side dishes and miso soup!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

14.01.2025

Nourishing Natto Rice Bowl with Okra and Yam - Chef JA Cooks

Boost your gut health with this Natto Rice Bowl! It’s a hearty meal with rice, okra, yam, and a soft egg on top. If you enjoy unique sticky and slimy textures, you’ll love this dish!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

20.12.2024

Curry and Egg Harumaki（Japanese Spring Rolls) - Chef JA Cooks

Turn leftover curry into delicious Curry and Egg Harumaki! Creamy-boiled eggs and savory curry are wrapped in crispy spring rolls—perfect for appetizers, snacks, or parties!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

17.12.2024

Avocado and Cheese Harumaki (Japanese Spring Rolls) - Chef JA Cooks

Make Avocado and Cheese Harumaki at home! These crispy spring rolls with a creamy, cheesy filling are perfect for parties or snacks!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

10.12.2024

Tomato Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) - Chef JA Cooks

Make this easy Tomato Takikomi Gohan in one pot! It's a comforting, light Japanese rice dish that’s perfect for sharing with family!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

05.12.2024

Mushroom Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) - Chef JA Cooks

Looking for a simple, comforting rice dish? This Mushroom Takikomi Gohan recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make in just one pot!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

02.12.2024

Japanese Egg and Tofu Rice Bowl with Napa Cabbage - Chef JA Cooks

Healthy, simple, and perfect for busy weeknights! This Egg and Tofu Rice Bowl with Napa Cabbage combines soft scrambled eggs, tender tofu, and a savory sauce into an easy, satisfying meal.

Chef JA Cooks Blog

28.11.2024

Pressure Cooker Vegetable Soup with Japanese Flavors - Chef JA Cooks

Chop the vegetables, throw them in the pressure cooker, and relax while it cooks! This simple, naturally sweet Vegetable Soup is perfect for cozy winter days!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

22.11.2024

Vegan Vegetable Soup (Japanese Kenchin Jiru) - Chef JA Cooks

Enjoy this warm Vegan Vegetable Soup (Kenchin Jiru) made with tofu and nutritious vegetables. It's perfect for chilly days and is light, flavorful, and satisfying!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

18.11.2024

15-Minute Creamy Miso Pasta for Busy Weeknights - Chef JA Cooks

This Creamy Miso Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish with a savory umami kick. It's perfect for busy weeknight dinners and a great way to use miso paste if you're unfamiliar with traditional Japanese recipes!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

15.11.2024

How To Make Natto using Store-bought Natto as a Starter - Chef JA Cooks

Learn How To Make Natto at home with just soybeans and store-bought natto as a starter. This simple guide covers the steps to create fresh, delicious, and probiotic-rich natto in your kitchen!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

04.11.2024

What is White Miso Paste? A Quick Guide to Fermented Soybeans - Chef JA Cooks

White miso is a mildly sweet, Japanese fermented soybean paste. This quick guide covers its key features, popular varieties, and tips for adding it to your cooking!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

04.11.2024

Homemade White Miso Paste in Just One Day! - Chef JA Cooks

If you love the taste of Japanese cuisine, you’ve probably come across miso paste. Did you know that you can easily make it at home? In just one day, you can create your own sweet, mild White Miso Paste! Read on!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

01.11.2024

What is White Miso Paste? A Quick Guide to Fermented Soybeans - Chef JA Cooks

White miso is a mildly sweet, Japanese fermented soybean paste. This quick guide covers its key features, popular varieties, and tips for adding it to your cooking!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

01.11.2024

Vegan Barley Soup with Japanese Flavors - Chef JA Cooks

Enjoy a bowl of this delicious Vegan Barley Soup, featuring a base of Japanese flavors with kombu dashi and soy sauce. Light yet satisfying, it’s perfect for a quick and nutritious meal!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

25.10.2024

Types of Miso Paste Explained and Which One to Choose? - Chef JA Cooks

Explore the various types of miso paste and discover which one is perfect for your cooking needs. From sweet white miso to robust red miso, learn about their flavors, uses, and tips for selecting the ideal miso!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

18.10.2024

14 Flavorful Miso Paste Recipes for Soups, Noodles, and More! - Chef JA Cooks

Looking for delicious recipes using miso paste? Explore these simple Miso Paste Recipes perfect for soups, noodles, and more! This versatile soybean paste adds a deep, savory, umami flavor to any dish. Try them today!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

11.10.2024

Miso Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Grilled Rice Balls) - Chef JA Cooks

Try this simple and delicious Miso Yaki Onigiri! The sweet and savory miso glaze gives these rice balls an irresistible flavor! Looking for onigiri recipes? Try my Egg Onigiri, Tuna Mayo Onigiri, or Salmon Onigiri!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

03.10.2024

Mini Japanese Sweet Potato Pie - Chef JA Cooks

Enjoy these delicious Mini Japanese Sweet Potato Pie made with naturally sweet, creamy sweet potatoes. These flaky, bite-sized pies are perfect for fall snacking or a cozy dessert!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

02.10.2024

From Japan with Flavor: Vegetarian (eBook) - Chef JA Cooks

Discover the essence of Japanese cooking with From Japan With Flavor: VEGETARIAN! This eBook offers over 80 delicious vegetarian recipes, perfect for anyone wanting to cook nutritious Japanese meals at home.

Chef JA Cooks Blog

01.10.2024

17 Vegetarian Japanese Appetizers Perfect for a Home Party - Chef JA Cooks

Looking for vegetarian-friendly party options? Check out these Japanese Appetizers featuring fresh salads, crispy gyoza, and fried vegetables!

Chef JA Cooks Blog

27.09.2024

Mini Kabocha Pie (Japanese Pumpkin Recipe) - Chef JA Cooks

Enjoy these delicious Mini Kabocha Pie made with sweet, creamy Japanese pumpkin. These flaky, perfectly portable pies are ideal for fall snacking or a cozy dessert!

home›Chef JA Cooks Blog›Food

Chef JA Cooks Blog - Food

Why Your Japanese Rice is Hard and How to Save It! - Chef JA Cooks

Teriyaki Mushroom Rice Bowl - Chef JA Cooks

3 Types of Natto: Whole Beans, Hikiwari, and Goto Natto - Chef JA Cooks

Vegan Soy Hambagu (Japanese-Style Hamburger Steak) - Chef JA Cooks

Vegan Mapo Tofu Onigirazu - Chef JA Cooks

Vegetarian Tamagoyaki Onigirazu - Chef JA Cooks

Tuna Mayo Onigirazu - Chef JA Cooks

Takenoko (Bamboo Shoots): Spring Vegetable in Japan - Chef JA Cooks

[Physical Cookbook] From Japan with Flavor: Vegetarian - Chef JA Cooks

Japanese Tamago Sando with Whole Egg - Chef JA Cooks

Hinamatsuri: What’s on the Menu for Girls’ Day? - Chef JA Cooks

Taste of Spring: Sakura-Colored Foods! - Chef JA Cooks

Tamarizuke: The Rich, Flavorful Pickles of Nikko - Chef JA Cooks

Japanese Daikon & Lentil Curry (Vegan) - Chef JA Cooks

5 Easy Onigiri with Canned Tuna - Chef JA Cooks

Baked Tofu with Cheese (Tofu Gratin) - Chef JA Cooks

[eBook] Everyday Tofu: 14 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Tofu - Chef JA Cooks

14 Easy Vegetarian Tofu Recipes (With Video Tutorials!) - Chef JA Cooks

7 Savory Takikomi Gohan Recipes (Japanese Mixed Rice) - Chef JA Cooks

Nourishing Natto Rice Bowl with Okra and Yam - Chef JA Cooks

Curry and Egg Harumaki（Japanese Spring Rolls) - Chef JA Cooks

Avocado and Cheese Harumaki (Japanese Spring Rolls) - Chef JA Cooks

Tomato Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) - Chef JA Cooks

Mushroom Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) - Chef JA Cooks

Japanese Egg and Tofu Rice Bowl with Napa Cabbage - Chef JA Cooks

Pressure Cooker Vegetable Soup with Japanese Flavors - Chef JA Cooks

Vegan Vegetable Soup (Japanese Kenchin Jiru) - Chef JA Cooks

15-Minute Creamy Miso Pasta for Busy Weeknights - Chef JA Cooks

How To Make Natto using Store-bought Natto as a Starter - Chef JA Cooks

What is White Miso Paste? A Quick Guide to Fermented Soybeans - Chef JA Cooks

Homemade White Miso Paste in Just One Day! - Chef JA Cooks

What is White Miso Paste? A Quick Guide to Fermented Soybeans - Chef JA Cooks

Vegan Barley Soup with Japanese Flavors - Chef JA Cooks

Types of Miso Paste Explained and Which One to Choose? - Chef JA Cooks

14 Flavorful Miso Paste Recipes for Soups, Noodles, and More! - Chef JA Cooks

Miso Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Grilled Rice Balls) - Chef JA Cooks

Mini Japanese Sweet Potato Pie - Chef JA Cooks

From Japan with Flavor: Vegetarian (eBook) - Chef JA Cooks

17 Vegetarian Japanese Appetizers Perfect for a Home Party - Chef JA Cooks

Mini Kabocha Pie (Japanese Pumpkin Recipe) - Chef JA Cooks

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