Jasmine Rice Bowl with Apricot Miso Glazed Pork, Sautéed Zucchini and Seed Furikake

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Place the jasmine rice in a strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs almost clear. Add it to a saucepan with 480 ml (2 cups) water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to the lowest heat, cover, and cook for 12 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes.

2. 2

   2. While the rice cooks, whisk together the white miso, apricot jam, 30 ml (2 tbsp) soy sauce, 15 ml (1 tbsp) rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, 5 ml (1 tsp) sesame oil, and lime juice in a bowl until smooth.

3. 3

   3. Add the pork loin strips to the bowl with the glaze and toss well to coat. Let stand for 10 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the remaining components.

4. 4

   4. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and red pepper flakes, and toast for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until fragrant. Turn off the heat, stir in the crumbled toasted nori sheet and a small pinch of salt. Set this homemade furikake aside.

5. 5

   5. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 10 ml (2 tsp) neutral oil and 10 ml (2 tsp) sesame oil. Add the white parts of the scallions and the zucchini. Stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still slightly firm. Add 15 ml (1 tbsp) soy sauce and 15 ml (1 tbsp) rice vinegar, toss for 30 seconds, and transfer to a plate.

6. 6

   6. In the same large skillet or wok, add the remaining 5 ml (1 tsp) neutral oil and heat over high heat. Add the pork with all of its glaze and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring, until the pork is fully cooked and the sauce becomes glossy and lightly thickened. If you prefer to verify doneness with a thermometer, the center of the pork should reach 63°C / 145°F and then rest for 3 minutes.

7. 7

   7. Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it among 4 bowls. Top with the sautéed zucchini and the glazed pork. Scatter over the green parts of the scallions and finish with the sesame, sunflower seed, and nori furikake.

8. 8

   8. Serve immediately, making sure each portion includes jasmine rice, apricot miso pork, sautéed zucchini, scallions, and homemade furikake.