Egg over rice, known as Tamago Kake Gohan in Japan, has a special place in my heart and pantry. The first time I tasted this simplicity in a bowl, I was instantly hooked. It’s a dish that combines the warmth of freshly steamed rice with the richness of a raw egg, all brought together by a splash of soy sauce. It’s a staple comfort food for many, often enjoyed on a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday brunch. The beauty of this dish lies in its uncomplicated preparation and the depth of flavor it offers despite being so easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Tamago Kake Gohan is more than just a dish—it’s a delightful experience. It takes mere minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those rushed family dinners or lazy weekends when you crave something comforting yet satisfying. Not only is this recipe budget-friendly, but it’s also kid-approved, leaving everyone in the family smiling. Trust me; you’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something so deliciously special.
"I never thought something this simple could taste this good! My kids love it with nori on top!" – A happy home cook.
The Cooking Process Explained
This recipe is a breeze from start to finish. You’ll start by steaming some rice, the heart of the dish. Once it’s nice and warm, you’ll crack a raw egg right over the rice. A dash of soy sauce elevates the flavor, and a gentle mix allows the heat of the rice to cook the egg just enough to create a creamy texture. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings to give it that personal touch, and voila! You’ve got a bowl of comfort food ready to delight your taste buds.
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious Egg Over Rice, gather the following:
- Steamed rice
- Raw egg
- Soy sauce
- Toppings (such as green onions, nori, or sesame seeds)
You can easily substitute the toppings based on what you have on hand; sriracha or avocado can also add a delicious twist!

Directions to Follow
- In a bowl, add a serving of hot steamed rice.
- Crack a raw egg over the warm rice.
- Add a splash of soy sauce for flavor.
- Stir gently to mix everything together, allowing the warmth of the rice to slightly cook the egg.
- Top with your choice of toppings for added texture and taste.
- Enjoy your Tamago Kake Gohan immediately for the best experience!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For a delightful meal, consider pairing your Egg Over Rice with a side of miso soup to create a traditional Japanese experience. You might also enjoy it alongside pickled vegetables for added crunch and acidity. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some chili oil over the top for a spicy kick, or serve it with a refreshing cucumber salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave, but remember that the egg will not retain its creamy consistency as well when reheated. Fresh is truly best for this dish!
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure the egg blends well with the rice, the rice should be steaming hot when you add it. This warmth is key to creating that deliciously creamy texture without cooking the egg too much. If you prefer a firmer egg, you can mix in a little hot water before stirring, which will help to slightly cook the egg.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this classic dish! Swap out the soy sauce for tamari to make a gluten-free version. Add some grated cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist or stir in some cooked vegetables for added nutrition. For a more traditional touch, consider adding dashi powder for that umami flavor characteristic of Japanese cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe comes together in about 5 minutes, making it perfect for quick meals.
Can I use cooked rice?
Absolutely! Just ensure that your rice is warm to slightly cook the egg.
Is it safe to eat raw eggs?
If you’re concerned about eating raw eggs, consider using pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of salmonella.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the egg or replace it with a plant-based egg substitute that you prefer.
What other toppings work well?
Many options work, including shredded chicken, tofu, or your favorite veggies. Get creative!

Tamago Kake Gohan (Egg Over Rice)
A simple yet delightful Japanese comfort food combining warm steamed rice with a raw egg and soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Steamed rice
- Raw egg
- Soy sauce
- Toppings (such as green onions, nori, or sesame seeds)
Instructions
- In a bowl, add a serving of hot steamed rice.
- Crack a raw egg over the warm rice.
- Add a splash of soy sauce for flavor.
- Stir gently to mix everything together, allowing the warmth of the rice to slightly cook the egg.
- Top with your choice of toppings for added texture and taste.
- Enjoy your Tamago Kake Gohan immediately for the best experience!
Notes
Best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Reheating may change the egg’s texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
