Kinpira Gobo (Burdock Root Stir-Fry)

A classic Japanese side dish of burdock root and carrot. Crunchy, sweet, and deeply savory.

Ingredients

• 2 medium burdock roots (gobo), peeled and julienned
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp sake
• 1 tsp sugar
• Red pepper flakes
• Sesame seeds

Directions

1. Soak julienned burdock in water with a splash of rice vinegar for 10 minutes to remove bitterness. Drain.
2. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add burdock and stir-fry 3-4 minutes.
4. Add carrot and continue stir-frying 3-4 minutes.
5. Add sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce. Toss well.
6. Cook until liquid is absorbed, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Top with red pepper flakes and sesame seeds.

Notes

Burdock root is available at Asian grocery stores. It has an earthy, sweet flavor and remarkably high fiber content. The vinegar soak is essential to remove the bitter, astringent quality.