Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe

There’s something uniquely satisfying about crafting these Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steaks from scratch. The combination of beef and pork, accentuated by the umami flavors of soy and Worcestershire sauce, makes for a truly comforting dish, especially when topped with refreshing grated daikon and the zing of ponzu sauce.

My Wafu Hambagu recipe brings together the delicious, umami flavors of ground beef and pork, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. I adore how they, together with panko breadcrumbs and milk, form this dish’s tender, juicy texture.

Grating the daikon and dousing it in ponzu as a sauce is such a delightful departure from the classic hamburger. But this dish is so good, I would eat it in any iteration.

Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe Ingredients

• Ground Beef: High in protein, adds rich umami flavor.
• Ground Pork: Tender texture, balances flavor, and adds fat.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light texture, helps retain moisture.
• Milk: Moistens breadcrumbs, creates tender patties.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing savory taste.
• Egg: Binds ingredients, ensuring patties hold together.
• Soy Sauce: Salty and umami-rich, contributes depth.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Tangy, adds complexity and sweetness.

Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 8 ounces ground beef
• 8 ounces ground pork
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup grated daikon (for serving)
• 2 tablespoons ponzu sauce (for serving)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

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How to Make this Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe

1. In a large mixing bowl, gather the beef, pork, panko breadcrumbs, and milk. Combine until the breadcrumbs are fairly uniformly soaked.

2. Finely chop the onion, and add it to a bowl with the egg, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.

3. Split the meat mixture into four equal parts and fashion each part into a patty, approximately 1 inch thick.

4. In a large non-stick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

5. When the oil is hot, add the patties very carefully to the skillet. Let them cook on one side for 4-5 minutes like this: until a nice crust forms and the bottom is nicely browned.

6. Turn the patties over and lower the heat. Place a lid on the skillet and allow the patties to cook for 5-7 more minutes. They should be done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

7. While the patties are cooking, ready the grated daikon and slice the green onions.

8. Once the hamburger steaks are finished cooking, take them from the skillet and allow them to rest on a plate for several minutes.

9. Each hamburg steak should be served with a topping of grated daikon and a drizzle of ponzu sauce.

10. Top with finely chopped green onions this time, and you’re ready to enjoy your Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak!

Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Small bowl
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Non-stick skillet
8. Spatula or turner
9. Lid for skillet
10. Plate
11. Grater

FAQ

• Q: Can I use only ground beef instead of combining with pork?A: You can use just ground beef, but a mixture of beef and pork makes the flavor and juiciness even better.
• Q: What is the best substitute for grated daikon if I can’t find it?A: If you can’t find daikon, use grated turnip or leave it out altogether, although omitting it removes a refreshing touch from the dish.
• Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko, and make sure all used sauces are versions that are gluten-free.
• Q: What does ponzu sauce add to the dish?A: The citrusy, umami-rich flavor of ponzu sauce complements the savory taste of the hambagu.
• Q: Can I prepare the patties in advance?A: Yes, you can save time on the day of serving by forming the patties and then refrigerating them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Q: What’s the best way to serve Wafu Hambagu?A: Serve hot with daikon, ponzu, and green onions, alongside rice or “vegetables that can be steamed” (in their own bowl, if possible).

Wafu Hambagu Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can use ground chicken or turkey to make a lighter version of dishes that usually call for ground pork or beef.
If needed, panko breadcrumbs can be replaced by using crushed crackers or oat flour.
For a dairy-free alternative to regular milk, use almond milk or soy milk.
To make this gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce.
Alternative ingredients to grated daikon that can be used include grated radish or cucumber.

Pro Tips

1. Mix the Meat Thoroughly Combine the ground beef and pork well to achieve a consistent flavor and texture throughout the patties. Use your hands to mix if comfortable, but avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.

2. Enhance Flavor with a Chill After forming the patties, chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors meld and firm up the patties, making them easier to handle.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer Ensure accuracy in checking the doneness of your patties by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the patties to confirm they have reached the safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

4. Deglaze the Pan After cooking the patties, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of water or broth. This can create a quick and flavorful sauce that complements the patties when served.

5. Experiment with Garnish While green onions add a fresh touch, try incorporating different garnishes such as toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lemon juice to add complexity and enhance the dish’s visual appeal.