How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew)?

You need 18 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 1 lb ground beef or 1 lb pork loin, cubed, 4 potatoes, halved and cut in 1/4-inch cubes or 2 lbs pumpkin, cut into bite sized pieces, 1 carrot, peeled and quartered, and more.

Is Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew) suitable as soups & stews?

Yes, Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew) falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew)?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew) Recipe

Name: Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 1 lb ground beef or 1 lb pork loin, cubed; 4 potatoes, halved and cut in 1/4-inch cubes or 2 lbs pumpkin, cut into bite sized pieces; 1 carrot, peeled and quartered; 12 white pearl onions; 8 large shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and quartered; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 1 yellow bell pepper; 1 red bell pepper; 3 cups dashi; 2 cups sake; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon curry powder (optional); 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped; shichimi togarashi, to taste (optional); steamed japanese rice, as an accompaniment (optional)

Warm up with this hearty Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew) recipe. Made with vegetable oil, ground beef, potatoes and carrot. Easy step-by-step instructions…

This Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew) relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as vegetable oil, carrot, peeled and quartered, white pearl onions and minced ginger. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 400 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It works as a light main on its own or as a starter alongside crusty bread, and it's just as good for a cozy night in as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers keep well, so it's a smart choice for meal prep too.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Soups & Stews

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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Nikujaga (Japanese Beef Stew)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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