Yakitori
Serves 2
There are numerous versions of Yakitori but the basics are all the same. Yakitori is a Japanese chicken dish that involves placing pieces of chicken on a metal or wood skewer. It is often barbequed, but we make it in a non-stick frying pan. If you like Japanese flavors you will most likely enjoy this dish.
Between Loraine and I we call it Yukitori because you will use the word Yuk
when you see the mess it leaves behind in your frying pan and sauce pot. Always use a non-stick frying pan and sauce pot to cook the chicken skewers and heat the sauce.
We use chicken breasts, but it is common to use chicken thighs to make this recipe. You need about a 1/4 lb. of chicken per skewer and 2 skewers per person.
We serve the Yakitori on a bed of noodles or rice and usually have a side vegetable.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken breast
- 3 tbsp. quality dark soy sauce
- 3 tbsp. sake
- 1 tsp. freshly ground pepper
- 1 tbsp. icing sugar
Directions
- Note: If you are using wood skewers and you are going to cook the chicken skewers on a barbeque soak the skewers in water for at least 15 minutes before using them. This will prevent the skewers from burning on the barbeque. If you are using a frying pan it is not necessary.
- In a bowl create a marinade by mixing together the soy sauce, sake, pepper and sugar.
- Cut the chicken into small pieces and place them tightly on the skewers.
- Place the chicken skewers in a Pyrex type glass container and pour the marinade over the top of the chicken, rotate the skewers so that chicken is completely covered in marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Turn the skewers over after an hour.
- Remove the skewers from the marinade and allow the excess marinade to drip back into the container. Pour the marinade into a small non-stick sauce pot.
- Place the chicken skewers in a frying pan on medium heat and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes a side (6 to 8 minutes in total).
- While the chicken skewers are cooking, heat the marinade so that it boils for a few seconds.
- To serve place the chicken skewers on your noodles or rice and pour the marinade over the top.