If you’re looking for a new go-to easy Japanese dish that’s bold, comforting, and packed with flavor, let me introduce you to Japanese Shogayaki (生姜焼き). Also known as ginger pork, this dish is a hidden gem in Japanese home cooking—and once you try it, there’s no going back.
Shogayaki is quick to make, uses minimal ingredients, and pairs beautifully with a bowl of rice and a side of veggies. Whether you're a fan of Japanese cuisine or just want something different for dinner tonight, this one’s a total winner.
What is Japanese Shogayaki?
The name Shogayaki literally means "ginger-grilled" in Japanese—shoga (ginger) and yaki (grilled or fried). It’s made with thin slices of pork cooked in a savory-sweet sauce made from fresh ginger, soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of sugar or sake.
It’s often served in lunch sets and bento boxes across Japan, and while it’s a common meal at home, it somehow feels restaurant-worthy every time.
Why It's Worth Making at Home
This dish is the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and zesty, thanks to the ginger-forward sauce. It comes together in about 15–20 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights—or when you're craving Japanese food but don't feel like ordering takeout.
No deep-frying. No complicated prep. Just straight-up flavor in the simplest way.
What You’ll Need
You only need a handful of ingredients to make authentic Japanese ginger pork:
- Thinly sliced pork (pork loin or shoulder works great)
- 1 small piece of fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- Cooking oil for the pan
Optional additions: shredded cabbage, sesame seeds, sliced green onions.
How to Make Japanese Shogayaki
1. Marinate the pork.
In a small bowl, mix the grated ginger, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Add the pork slices and let them marinate for at least 10–15 minutes. You can prep this ahead and keep it in the fridge for more flavor.
2. Cook the pork.
Heat a bit of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the pork slices and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through.
3. Add the sauce.
Pour in the leftover marinade and let it simmer for a minute or two, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the pork.
4. Serve hot.
Enjoy your Shogayaki with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, or even some miso soup on the side for a full Japanese-style meal.
Tips & Variations
- If you can't find pre-sliced pork, just freeze a pork loin for 30 minutes and slice it thinly yourself.
- Add a bit of grated onion for extra flavor and tenderness.
- This dish also works great with chicken or tofu if you want to mix it up.
- Want a little heat? Add a dash of chili flakes or a squeeze of yuzu kosho for a spicy citrus twist.
What Makes Shogayaki So Special?
Unlike teriyaki, which is more on the sweet and sticky side, Shogayaki has a deeper, richer flavor thanks to the sharpness of the fresh ginger. It’s warming, satisfying, and gives off that nostalgic “home-cooked meal” feeling—without being complicated or heavy.
Plus, it tastes even better with a cold beer or iced green tea. Just saying.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're new to Japanese cooking or already love dishes like donburi and miso soup, Shogayaki deserves a spot in your recipe lineup. It’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your weekly dinner rotation.
Craving something gingery, savory, and quick? Give this Japanese ginger pork recipe a try—you won’t regret it.
