How to Make Soboro Don: A Kid-Friendly Three-Color Bowl in Bali
Learn how to prepare Soboro Don, a Japanese three-color rice bowl, with a Balinese twist. This simple and nutritious recipe features seasoned ground chicken, scrambled eggs, and vibrant vegetables served over rice.
Perfect for families with kids, this dish combines authentic Japanese flavors with tropical Balinese ingredients like kecap manis and lemongrass.
Table of Contents
What is Soboro Don?
Soboro Don is a classic Japanese dish featuring seasoned ground chicken, fluffy scrambled eggs, and colorful vegetables arranged over a bowl of steamed rice.
Known as a three-color bowl, it’s loved for its simplicity and balanced nutrition. This Balinese version adds a tropical twist, making it even more enticing for families.
Balinese Inspiration for Soboro Don
This Soboro Don recipe incorporates Balinese spices like kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) and lemongrass, enhancing its flavor with a tropical flair.
Using locally sourced vegetables and presenting the dish on banana leaves brings an authentic Bali dining experience to your table.
Ingredients for Kid-Friendly Soboro Don
Ground chicken: 300g
Eggs: 4, beaten
Balinese kecap manis: 3 tbsp
Shallots: 2, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Fresh lemongrass: 1 stalk, bruised and chopped
Carrots: 1 small, julienned
Green beans: 100g, chopped
Cooked white rice: 4 small bowls
Coriander leaves: For garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Soboro Don
Prepare the Ingredients
Finely chop the shallots, garlic, and lemongrass. Julienne the carrots and chop the green beans into small pieces.
Cook the Ground Chicken
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the shallots, garlic, and lemongrass until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in kecap manis and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
Scramble the Eggs
In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil over low heat. Add the beaten eggs and stir gently to create soft, fluffy scrambled eggs. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
Sauté the carrots and green beans in the same pan used for the chicken. Add a pinch of salt and cook until tender but still crisp.
Assemble the Soboro Don
In individual bowls, layer the cooked white rice at the bottom. Arrange the seasoned chicken, scrambled eggs, and sautéed vegetables in three separate sections on top of the rice.
Bali-Style Presentation
Serve the bowls on banana leaves or wooden plates. Garnish with coriander leaves for added freshness.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Soboro Don
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemongrass and vegetables enhance the dish’s flavor and aroma.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of kecap manis to suit your family’s preference for sweetness and savoriness.
Avoid Overcooking Eggs: Cook the eggs on low heat and stir gently to maintain their soft, fluffy texture.
Add Variety: Include additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to increase color and nutritional value.
Incorporate Local Elements: Use toasted coconut flakes or chili flakes as optional garnishes for a Balinese twist.
Serve Family-Style: Arrange all ingredients on a large platter and let each family member create their own bowl for a fun dining experience.
Nutrition Facts for Soboro Don Recipe
Calories
320 kcal
Fat
10g (3g saturated fat)
Cholesterol
180mg
Sodium
500mg
Carbohydrates
38g (6g sugars, 2g fiber)
Protein
20g
FAQs About Making Soboro Don in Bali
Q1: Can I use tofu instead of chicken?
A: Yes, crumbled tofu seasoned with soy sauce and ginger makes a great vegetarian substitute.
Q2: Where can I find kecap manis in Bali?
A: Kecap manis is widely available in local supermarkets like Carrefour and traditional markets in Bali.
Q3: How do I make this dish spicier?
A: Add sliced chili or serve with sambal matah for a spicy kick.
Q4: Can I use red rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, red rice adds a nutty flavor and additional nutrients to the dish.
Q5: What other protein options can I use?
A: Ground turkey, beef, or even shrimp work well in place of chicken.
Q6: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Q7: Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Cook the chicken, eggs, and vegetables in advance and assemble the bowls just before serving.
Q8: What beverages pair well with Soboro Don?
A: A refreshing cucumber lemonade or iced green tea complements the dish perfectly.