Japanese Skewer - Yakitori

⁍ Ingredients

• For the Skewers:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes

  • 4 scallions (green onions), white and light green parts, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces

  • Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning

• For the Tare Sauce:

  • ½ cup soy sauce

  • ½ cup mirin (sweet rice wine)

  • ¼ cup sake (Japanese rice wine)

  • 3 tbsp sugar

  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)

⁍ Instructions

1. Prepare the Tare Sauce: Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and optional garlic and ginger in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool.

2. Assemble the Skewers: Alternate chicken and green onion pieces on the soaked skewers.

3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat and oil your grill or grill pan.

4. Cook and Glaze: Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes per side. Brush with tare sauce during the final minutes and continue grilling until chicken is cooked through and the sauce is caramelized.

5. Serve: Serve hot, with optional garnishes like green onions or shichimi togarashi. Enjoy immediately with a cold Japanese beer for an authentic izakaya experience.