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Mame gohan (豆ごはん)

Japan

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Mame Gohan, Japanese rice with peas, Ghibli illustration

Fragrant rice cooked together with fresh green peas, perfect for hanami‑bento style lunch boxes. The dish is placed in the left part of the box and creates a bright color contrast with the other components.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Japanese cuisine, mame gohan, rice, beans, anime-style cooking illustration

    Rinse the rice in a colander, removing impurities, rinse with water and shake off excess moisture.

  2. Japanese Mamé Gohan recipe, cooking step, anime-style illustration

    Transfer the rice to a pot with a tight‑fitting lid, add 600 ml of water and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Japanese cuisine anime illustration cooking step

    Separate the green peas from the pods, rinse them and also shake off moisture.

  4. Japanese cuisine, mame gohan, anime-style cooking process illustration

    To the soaked rice add 1 tsp of salt, spread the peas on top. Close the lid, place over medium heat. When the water boils, reduce to low heat and simmer for exactly 12 minutes. Then turn off the heat and, without removing the lid, let the rice rest for another 10 minutes.

  5. Mame gohan Japanese rice, anime-style cooking illustration

    Remove the lid and gently stir the rice, lifting it from the sides of the pot to evenly distribute the peas, trying not to crush them.

  6. Japanese cuisine, mame gohan, recipe step, anime illustration

    Before placing the rice in the bento box, lightly moisten its surface so the rice does not stick. Put the cooked rice in the left side of the box.

  7. Japanese cuisine, mame gohan, anime-style cooking illustration, Studio Ghibli style

    (Optional) Form a small cup for asparagus from aluminum foil and place it in the upper part of the box next to the rice. Add pieces of fried chicken, omelette, and pickled ginger for a complete bento set.

FAQ

What is Mame Gohan (豆ご飯)?

Mame Gohan (豆ご飯) is a traditional Japanese dish featuring fragrant rice cooked with fresh green peas, often enjoyed in bento boxes for its vibrant color and delicate flavor.

How long does it take to make Mame Gohan?

This Mame Gohan recipe takes approximately 83 minutes to prepare, including cooking time for the rice and peas.

What can I serve with Mame Gohan?

Mame Gohan is often served as part of a balanced Japanese meal or in a bento box. It pairs well with grilled fish, tempura, or other savory side dishes.

Can I use frozen peas for Mame Gohan?

While fresh green peas are traditional, you can use frozen peas as a substitute. Our Umami Guru app can help you find suitable ingredient replacements.

Is Mame Gohan featured in anime?

While not explicitly named in every scene, simple, comforting dishes like Mame Gohan embody the wholesome, aesthetic food often seen in Studio Ghibli films and other anime.