Butadon facts for kids
Butadon (which means "pork bowl" in Japanese) is a yummy Japanese dish. It's made with a bowl of rice topped with tender pork. The pork is cooked in a special sauce that tastes a little sweet. Sometimes, green peas are sprinkled on top for extra color and flavor.
This popular food is often served with takuan, which is a type of pickled radish. The name Butadon comes from two Japanese words: Buta means "pig" or "pork," and don is a short way of saying donburi, which means "bowl."
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Where Did Butadon Come From?
Butadon first appeared in the city of Obihiro, Japan. Obihiro is located on the island of Hokkaido. It's known for its farming and dairy products.
The History of Butadon
Butadon was created in 1933 by a restaurant owner named Abe Taichirō. He owned a restaurant called Pancho in Obihiro. At that time, Gyūdon (beef bowl) was very popular in Japan. However, it was hard to get good quality beef in Obihiro.
So, Abe Taichirō decided to use pork instead. He wanted to create a hearty and tasty meal for farmers and workers. He cooked pork slices in a sweet soy sauce. This sauce was similar to the one used for unagi (grilled eel). This new dish quickly became a favorite in Obihiro.
What Makes Butadon Special?
Butadon is loved for its simple yet delicious taste. The pork is usually thinly sliced and cooked until it's very tender. The sauce is made from soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes mirin (a type of rice wine). This gives the pork a shiny glaze and a rich flavor.
Different Ways to Enjoy Butadon
While the classic Butadon uses simple pork slices, there are many variations. Some places use thicker cuts of pork. Others might add onions or other vegetables to the mix. You can also find Butadon with different toppings, like a soft-boiled egg or even cheese!
It's a comforting and filling meal, perfect for a quick lunch or a warm dinner.
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