Yakitori(Japanese)
Yakitori is a popular Japanese skewered chicken dish featuring tender chicken grilled to perfection with a savory-sweet soy-based glaze. Its rich flavors and smoky aroma make it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for outdoor barbecues, casual gatherings, or as a flavorful appetizer with a touch of authentic Japanese flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, sake or cooking sherry, mirin, grated ginger, and grated garlic for 20 minutes or longer.
- Thread 4 or 5 pieces of chicken onto bamboo skewers.
- Simmer the remaining sauce until it reduces to half its original volume.
- If needed, thicken the sauce with a little cornstarch dissolved in water.
- Broil the skewers over a charcoal grill.
- Brush the skewers with the sauce several times during grilling.
Tips & Substitutions
For more flavor, marinate the chicken longer than 20 minutes, even overnight if possible. You can substitute sake with dry white wine or chicken broth if you're avoiding alcohol. If you don't have mirin, a mix of sugar and rice vinegar can work in a pinch. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms on the skewers for a colorful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve yakitori with steamed rice or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Pancit Canton (Sauteed Noodles, Canton Style) for a delightful fusion experience. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat on a grill for that smoky flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yakitori(Japanese) contains roughly 31 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for yakitori?
Yes, yakitori can be made with various meats such as beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the cooking times are adjusted based on the type of meat used.
What type of skewers should I use?
Bamboo skewers are traditional for yakitori, but you should soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are a good alternative if you prefer reusable options.
What is the best way to grill yakitori?
Using a charcoal grill gives yakitori an authentic smoky flavor, but you can also use a gas grill or broiler. Ensure the grill is preheated, and turn the skewers regularly while brushing with sauce to prevent burning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).