How to Make Butadon (Japanese Pork Bowl) That Never Fails

In this video, I'll show you how to make authentic Butadon - a comforting Japanese pork rice bowl that's ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners with tender pork belly glazed in caramelized soy sauce.

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% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Cut Japanese leek white part horizontally to the core and peel off outer layers. Press layers flat and cut thinly along the grain to make strings. Soak the leek strings in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

Add turbinado sugar and small amount of water to saucepan. Heat on medium while swirling occasionally until golden. Add remaining water carefully, reduce to medium-low, then add soy sauce, sake, mirin, and honey. Cook until syrup-like consistency before setting aside.

Step 3

Cut pork belly into thick slices and season with salt, pepper, and potato starch, mixing until evenly coated. Heat frying pan on medium-high with cooking oil, then fry pork slices in single layer until golden brown on one side.

Step 4

Flip the pork and wipe excess fat from pan with paper towel. Pour sauce over pork and move around until sauce thickens and clings to meat before removing from heat.

Step 5

Place cooked rice in bowls and top with pork slices. Garnish with prepared leek strings, green peas, and pickled ginger.