There is a 1952 Ozu film entitled Ochazuke No Aji which, in english, means The Flavor of Green Tea over Rice. In the film, an unhappy couple battles through the monotony and unhappiness of their arranged marriage but at the end come together over a bowl of green tea with rice.

Seems simple enough?

Ochazuke is literally just leftover rice (I suppose it could be fresh) with green tea. It’s eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner all over Japan because of its simplicity. Of course each family has their own recipe for combination of condiments to add. Grilled salmon Ochazuke is popular if you want to make it into a filling protein-packed dinner.

Where to find Ochazuke in New York City?

I’ve seen it on menu’s at

Qoo Robata Bar 

367 Metropolitan Ave
(at Havemeyer St)
Brooklyn, NY 11211

Sake Bar Hagi 

152 W 49th St
(between 7th Ave & Avenue Of The Americas)
New York, NY 10019

But why pay $10.00 when you can make it at home for pennies? The flavor is very subtle so be warned. The broth is just green tea with a dash of soy sauce but if you like clean Japanese food, you’re going to love this.

Ochazuke is wonderful in the morning. I’ve tried to force myself to like oatmeal: it’s fast and cheap and easy to bring to work. But I just can’t do it, I don’t like it! Ochazuke is my oatmeal substitute and take about 5 minutes to make, perfect for the pre-work rush before the caffeine kicks in.

Make sure to visit your Japanese grocery store and pick up condiments for your Ochazuke.

Ochazuke

Serves 1

You will need:

1/2 cup leftover cooked rice at room temperature (white sushi rice or brown rice)

1 green tea bag (I used Sencha  but hojicha and genmacha will work)

1 cup water

1/2 teaspoon soy sauce

1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds

1 teaspoon toasted nori flakes (or furikake)

Method:

1. Bring the water to boil and brew the tea for 2 minutes in a mug.

2. If your rice is straight out of the fridge, heat it the microwave for 30 seconds. In a serving bowl, pour the brewed tea over the rice and stir. Add the toppings and more soy sauce to taste.