Daikon, a type of Japanese radish, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and salads to main courses and snacks. With its mild flavor and crunchy texture, it’s no wonder why daikon has become a staple in many Japanese kitchens. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a hearty meal to warm up on a chilly day, we’ve got you covered with these 20 flavorful Japanese daikon recipes for every season.
From braised daikon dishes simmered in soy sauce and mirin to spicy pickled daikon perfect for snacking, our collection of recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple and delicious recipes will inspire you to get creative with this underrated ingredient.
Braised Daikon with Soy and Mirin
This sweet and savory braise brings out the natural sweetness of daikon radish, perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in various recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine daikon slices, soy sauce, mirin, water, sugar, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
3. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Daikon and Carrot Nimono
Nimono is a traditional Japanese cooking method that brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables. This simple recipe highlights the combination of daikon and carrots, creating a delicious and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into thin sticks
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pan or wok, combine daikon and carrots.
2. Add soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly.
3. Add water and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Pickled Daikon (Takuwan)
A popular Korean side dish, Takuwan is a spicy and sour condiment made with daikon radish. This recipe adds a kick of heat from gochugaru, Korean chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large daikon radishes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine daikon slices and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Rinse the daikon under cold running water, then drain well.
3. In a saucepan, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, and gochugaru. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
4. Pack the daikon into a clean glass jar or container, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top. Pour the spicy pickling liquid over the daikon, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. The longer it sits, the spicier and tangier it becomes.
Cooking Time: None
Simmered Daikon with Miso (Daikon no Misoni)
This Japanese-inspired side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, adding a touch of sweetness and umami flavor. Simmered daikon with miso is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s easy to make and can be served hot or cold.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish (about 2 lbs), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine daikon cubes, miso paste, water, soy sauce, sake (if using), and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the daikon is tender.
3. Serve hot or at room temperature, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Daikon and Pork Stir-Fry
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this quick and easy stir-fry, featuring crispy pork and tender daikon radish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium daikon radishes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the daikon radish and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Daikon Radish Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of daikon radish with the nutty flavor of sesame, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. The simplicity of this recipe allows the natural sweetness of the radish to shine through.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine daikon radish slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the dressing over the radish and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Daikon and Mushroom Miso Soup
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of daikon radish with the earthiness of mushrooms, all tied together with a rich miso broth. Perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium daikons, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine daikon, mushrooms, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Stir in miso paste, soy sauce, and ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer soup for an additional 5 minutes, or until flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grated Daikon with Ponzu (Oroshi Daikon)
This refreshing Japanese condiment is a great accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. Grated daikon radish mixed with ponzu sauce creates a sweet, sour, and umami flavor combination that will elevate your dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish
– 1/2 cup ponzu sauce (or yuzu juice)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the daikon radish and grate it using a box grater or a food processor with the shredding attachment.
2. In a bowl, mix the grated daikon with ponzu sauce until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including prep time)
Daikon and Tofu Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of daikon with the savory flavor of tofu, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and diced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the daikon and tofu; stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes or until the daikon starts to soften.
4. Pour in the broth and soy sauce; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the daikon is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Daikon Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Experience the crispy delight of Japanese-style tempura with this simple recipe featuring daikon radish and a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this tempura is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and cut into sticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake or dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water, mixing until smooth.
3. Dip daikon sticks into batter, coating evenly.
4. Fry tempura in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve with Dipping Sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Daikon and Beef Roll (Daikon no Buta Maki)
A Japanese-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of daikon with the savory flavor of beef, all wrapped up in a neat package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish
– 1/2 pound beef tenderloin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Rice vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the daikon into thin rounds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sesame oil.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade mixture and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Assemble the rolls by placing a slice of daikon on a piece of parchment paper, then add a few slices of marinated beef in the center.
6. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
7. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Daikon Kimchi (Japanese-style)
This Japanese-style kimchi recipe uses daikon radish instead of traditional Korean napa cabbage, giving it a unique flavor and texture. Daikon kimchi is a perfect condiment for noodles, rice bowls, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large daikon radishes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
– 2 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine daikon slices and chili flakes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, salt, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and water.
3. Pour the liquid mixture over the daikon and toss to coat.
4. Let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours to ferment.
5. Before serving, sprinkle green onion and sesame seeds on top.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (fermentation time)
Daikon and Salmon Nabe (Hot Pot)
This Japanese-inspired hot pot recipe combines the sweetness of daikon with the richness of salmon, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Enjoy this comforting and nourishing dish on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– Sesame oil and salt for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.
2. Add daikon slices and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
3. Add salmon pieces and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and drizzled with sesame oil and salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Daikon Cake (Daikon Mochi)
Get ready to experience the delightful fusion of Japanese flavors with this Daikon Cake recipe, also known as Daikon Mochi. This sweet and savory cake is a popular treat in Japan, made from daikon radish, glutinous rice flour, and other natural ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and grated
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated daikon, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add glutinous rice flour and mix until a dough forms.
3. Gradually add water while kneading the dough for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into balls or desired shapes.
5. Steam the cakes over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Daikon and Shrimp Dumplings
A classic Chinese dish, Daikon and Shrimp Dumplings are a delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe combines the crunch of daikon radish with the tender sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicate dumpling wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and grated
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine daikon, shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook the dumplings by steaming them for 8-10 minutes, or pan-frying them in hot oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Daikon with Yuzu Kosho
This recipe adds a burst of citrusy flavor to the humble daikon radish, elevating it from a simple side dish to a show-stopping appetizer. With the addition of yuzu kosho, a spicy and tangy condiment made from yuzu citrus, the grilled daikon takes on a whole new dimension.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish
– 2 tablespoons yuzu kosho
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice daikon into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together yuzu kosho, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and water.
4. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the daikon slices.
5. Grill daikon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Daikon and Chicken Tsukune
Tsukune, a popular Japanese street food, typically consists of grilled chicken skewers flavored with soy sauce and sake. This recipe adds a sweet and crunchy twist by pairing the chicken with daikon, a type of Japanese white radish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium daikons, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, garlic, and sesame oil. Add chicken and daikon; toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken and daikon onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Daikon and Wakame Sunomono
Sunomono is a classic Japanese side dish that combines the crunch of daikon radish with the savory flavor of wakame seaweed. This simple recipe brings together two popular ingredients for a delicious and healthy accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup wakame seaweed sheets, rehydrated in water
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine daikon slices and wakame seaweed.
2. In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Pour the hot sauce over the daikon and wakame mixture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Daikon Fries with Wasabi Mayo
Transform ordinary potato fries into a unique and flavorful dish by substituting daikon radish for the potatoes. This crispy and addictive snack is elevated by a tangy wasabi mayo dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large daikons, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Wasabi mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or grated daikon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each daikon piece into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the daikon pieces in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with wasabi mayonnaise for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Daikon and Scallion Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki, a popular Japanese savory pancake, gets a delicious twist with the addition of daikon (Japanese white radish) and scallions. This recipe combines the crispy texture of okonomiyaki with the sweetness of daikon and the pungency of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated daikon
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 1 tablespoon okonomiyaki sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth.
2. Add grated daikon, chopped scallions, okonomiyaki sauce, and soy sauce. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Pour in the batter and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as takuan (yellow pickled daikon), bonito flakes, or spicy mayo.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of Japanese daikon with these 20 flavorful recipes, perfect for every season. From braised dishes like Braised Daikon with Soy and Mirin to pickled delights like Spicy Pickled Daikon (Takuwan), and from hearty stews like Daikon and Pork Stir-Fry to refreshing salads like Daikon Radish Salad with Sesame Dressing, there’s a recipe for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for comforting bowls of Simmered Daikon with Miso (Daikon no Misoni) or crispy snacks like Daikon Fries with Wasabi Mayo, these recipes showcase the humble daikon’s starring role in Japanese cuisine.
