Comforting Pork Rice Bowl You Can Make in Under an Hour

Your Go-To Cozy Pork Rice Bowl for Chilly Nights

There’s a certain feeling that settles in with November, isn't there? The air gets crisp, the sweaters come out, and my kitchen cravings shift toward all things warm and comforting. With the holiday season just around the corner, life tends to get a little busier, and I find myself deeply grateful for simple, satisfying meals that don’t demand hours of my time.

That’s where this pork rice bowl comes in. It’s my answer to the question, "What's for dinner?" on a busy weeknight when I want something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s savory, a little sweet, and comes together in well under an hour. It’s the kind of meal that makes a quiet Tuesday night feel special.

What I appreciate most is its simplicity. The sauce uses ingredients I almost always have on hand, and the result is a rich, flavorful pork topping that pairs perfectly with fluffy steamed rice. Let's get to it.

Ingredients

This recipe serves about 2-3 people, but it’s easy to double for a larger family.

• 1 lb ground pork
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
• 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice for serving (about 2-3 cups)
• Optional toppings: sliced scallions, sesame seeds, a fried egg, steamed broccoli, or quick-pickled cucumbers

Instructions

1. Start Your Rice: First things first, get your rice cooking according to the package directions. Whether you use a rice cooker or a pot on the stove, having it ready to go is key.
2. Cook the Pork: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat if you like.
3. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the pork. Stir and cook for about a minute until you can smell them. They should be fragrant but not browned.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the pork in the skillet.
5. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly and beautifully coat every piece of the pork.
6. Assemble Your Bowls: To serve, scoop a generous portion of fluffy rice into each bowl. Top with the saucy pork mixture and finish with your favorite toppings. A sprinkle of scallions and sesame seeds is a must for me!

A Few Ideas for Toppings

This is where you can really make the dish your own. A perfectly fried egg with a runny yolk adds a wonderful richness. Steamed or blanched broccoli adds a nice bit of green, and some quick-pickled cucumbers or shredded carrots provide a lovely, tangy crunch to cut through the savory pork.

This meal has become a staple in my home during the fall and winter months. It’s a small, grounding ritual to be thankful for—a delicious, home-cooked dinner that brings warmth and comfort without any of the stress.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. What are your go-to comfort toppings for a rice bowl? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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