Stir-fried burdock root and carrots with a sweet and savory sauce, a classic Japanese side dish perfect with rice. Great for meal prep and bento boxes.

Ingredients

• 150g (5 oz) burdock root
• 1 carrot
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1½ tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Sesame seeds, as needed
• Sliced chili pepper, as needed (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the burdock root: Peel the burdock root and cut it into thin matchsticks. Soak the burdock root in water for 30 minutes to remove excess bitterness. Drain well and pat dry.
2. Prepare the carrot: Peel the carrot and cut it into thin matchsticks, similar in size to the burdock root.
3. Sauté the burdock root: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the burdock root and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly softened.
4. Add the carrot: Add the carrot to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, or until the carrot is tender-crisp.
5. Add the seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, sake, mirin, and soy sauce. Add the seasoning mixture to the pan and stir to coat the vegetables.
6. Simmer until the liquid is reduced: Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid is almost reduced and the vegetables are tender.
7. Finish with sesame seeds and chili pepper (optional): Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced chili pepper, if desired. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Tips

• For a more authentic flavor, use Japanese-style soy sauce, which is less salty than regular soy sauce.
• If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar.
• Kinpira gobo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Health and beauty benefits

The dietary fiber abundant in burdock root helps regulate the intestinal environment and is believed to relieve constipation. Additionally, vitamin C in burdock root has antioxidant properties, preventing blemishes and wrinkles and promoting beautiful skin. Furthermore, the dietary fiber in burdock root promotes a feeling of fullness and is believed to aid in weight loss.