Donburi, a popular Japanese dish, combines rice with various main ingredients in a large bowl. It’s akin to fast food, offering a quick and satisfying meal similar to hamburgers or donuts. Typically flavored with sweet soy sauce, Donburi features toppings like deep-fried chicken, poke, sashimi, tempura, or beef similar to Sukiyaki. Another variant is Unajyu, served in a lacquered box resembling Wajima, traditionally seen as a premium dish due to its presentation. Unagi, or eel, used in Unajyu, faces conservation concerns, potentially affecting future availability. Unadon, similar to Unajyu but served in a simpler container, is usually more affordable.
Popular chain restaurants like Yoshinoya and Sukiya specialize in Donburi, offering dishes like Gyudon (beef bowl). Donburi menus also feature Tenpura Don, available at soba shops. Here are some common types:
Oyako Don (親子丼)
Combines chicken and egg, symbolizing “parent and child.
Kaisen Don (海鮮丼)
Features raw fish on vinegared rice, resembling Chirashi Zushi.
Ten Don (天丼)
Deep-fried shrimp and vegetables over rice, with sweet soy sauce.
Katsu Don (カツ丼)
Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet (katsu) over rice, topped with egg and onions.
Gyu Don (牛丼)
Thinly sliced beef cooked in sweet soy sauce over rice, often requested with extra sauce (“Tsuyu-daku”).
Buta Don (豚丼)
Grilled pork with sweet soy sauce over rice, varying in flavors like sweet, sour, or spicy.
These dishes offer a delicious and convenient option for both locals and tourists exploring Japanese cuisine.
