Rice Burger
Fast Food, Japanese Style
The first time I tried a rice burger was at Mos Burger, a popular Japanese fast food chain. I remember being intrigued by the concept—it wasn’t what I expected from a burger chain, but it worked! Mos Burger has found success not only in Japan but across Asia, proving that unique ideas can thrive. It’s a great reminder to take creative risks, whether in the kitchen or in business!
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable: with crispy rice patties as the base, you can layer it with any protein, veggies, and sauces you like. It’s easy to make vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, or however you prefer!
Ingredients
-
- 2 cups steamed short-grain rice
- 2 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (for brushing)
- Lettuce or spinach (any green of choice)
- Kimchi (optional)
- Korean marinated short ribs (or any protein, including tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms!)
Sauces to add: Spicy mayo, Tonkatsu, or Sriracha!
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Mix the steamed short-grain rice with mirin or rice vinegar, salt, and sugar while it’s still warm. Let the rice cool for a little in a bowl, then shape the seasoned rice into patties about the size of a burger bun. You can use a small bowl, your hands, or any circular object like a cookie cutter! Refrigerate or let cool before frying so it doesn’t break apart easily.
- Fry the Rice Patties: Having 2 tbsp of oil may help if your rice patties stick to the pan Heat oil in a pan over medium to low heat. (high heat will burn and stick the rice to the pan easily) Fry the rice patties until they are golden and crispy on both sides, brushing them with soy sauce as they cook.
- Assemble the Burger: Place a rice patty as the base, layer with lettuce or spinach, kimchi, and a generous serving of the grilled short ribs/protein choice(recipe for short ribs here) Top with another rice patty to complete the burger and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Serve immediately while the rice patties are still crispy. This burger is a fusion of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and fun to eat.