Yakitori – Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers

Yakitori – Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers

Yakitori is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of skewered, grilled chicken. It is a popular street food in Japan, often enjoyed with a refreshing beverage. The skewers can include various parts of the chicken, such as thighs, breast, skin, and liver, seasoned with a savory and sweet tare sauce. It’s a savory delight perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a meal on its own.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
– 1 bunch of scallions (cut into 1-inch pieces)

For the Tare Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet cooking rice wine)
– 1/4 cup sake
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 garlic clove (minced)
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tare Sauce:
– In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
– Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
– Remove from heat and allow it to cool.

2. Preheat the Grill:
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat as well.

3. Skewer the Chicken:
– Thread the chicken pieces and scallion pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers alternately.
– Do not overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking.

4. Grill the Skewers:
– Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
– Brush the skewers with tare sauce during the last few minutes of grilling, turning to coat them evenly.

5. Serve:
– Remove the skewers from the grill and brush them one final time with the tare sauce.
– Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish.

Enjoy the exquisite flavor of Yakitori, a beloved Japanese street food that brings a taste of Japan to your table.