Unagi Don, also known as Unadon, is a delicious Japanese dish featuring grilled eel glazed with a sweet and savory sauce, served over a bed of hot rice. This dish is a favorite in Japan, known for its rich flavors and satisfying combination of textures.

The history of Unagi Don dates back to the Edo period in Japan, where it was enjoyed as a nutritious and energy-boosting meal. Eel has been a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine for centuries, prized for its unique taste and health benefits.

To make Unagi Don, start by grilling pre-cooked unagi (eel) until it is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The eel is then glazed with a special unagi sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake, which gives it a delightful umami flavor. Once the eel is perfectly cooked and glazed, it is placed over a bowl of steaming hot rice, allowing the sauce to seep into the rice and enhance its taste.

For those who like to customize their Unagi Don, you can add a sprinkle of sansho pepper for a bit of heat or garnish with shredded nori (seaweed) for extra flavor. Some people also enjoy adding a side of pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

In Japan, Unagi Don is often served in specialty eel restaurants, but it can also be enjoyed at home. It's a popular choice during the summer months, as eel is believed to provide stamina and help combat the heat.

While Unagi Don is a delicious and satisfying meal, it's important to note that eel is high in protein and healthy fats, but it can also be high in calories. For those watching their calorie intake, it's best to enjoy this dish in moderation. Additionally, some people may have allergies to eel or other ingredients in the sauce, so it's important to be mindful of any dietary restrictions.