Yakitori Negima, succulent skewers of marinated chicken and scallions, are a beloved Japanese street food and a surprisingly simple dish to recreate at home. This classic yakitori offers a delightful balance of savory, slightly sweet, and subtly smoky flavors. The tender chicken, perfectly charred, pairs beautifully with the crisp freshness of the scallions, creating a truly irresistible bite. Forget expensive restaurants – mastering this recipe will elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level of deliciousness.
With just a handful of readily available ingredients and minimal equipment, you can enjoy authentic Yakitori Negima in the comfort of your own kitchen. The secret lies in a simple marinade that unlocks the chicken's natural flavor, allowing the smoky char to further enhance its taste. Ready to learn how to make these irresistible skewers? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- White part of leek
- Sake: 1 tbsp (step 3) + 2 tbsp (step 5)
- Salt: a little bit (step 3)
- Pepper: a little bit (step 3)
- Sugar: a little bit (step 5)
- Soy sauce: 2 tbsp (step 5)
- Skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Marinate Chicken
- Soak skewers in water to prevent burning.
- Cut the white part of the leek into 1-inch pieces. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces (remove skin first).
- Season chicken with 1 tbsp sake, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes.
Step 2. Assemble the Yakitori Skewers
- Skewer chicken and leek alternately onto skewers.
Step 3. Cook the Yakitori
- Pan-fry yakitori with the lid on medium heat for about 4 minutes per side.
Step 4. Finish and Season
- Season with 2 tbsp sake, a little sugar, and 2 tbsp soy sauce.
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- Soaking skewers in water helps prevent them from burning during cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal ones?
Yes, but soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
2. What if I don't have mirin? Can I substitute it?
Yes, you can substitute mirin with a combination of 1 tablespoon of sake and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes is ideal, but marinating for longer (up to 4 hours in the refrigerator) will result in more flavorful chicken.
So there you have it – your own delicious batch of homemade Yakitori Negima! These easy-to-make skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun appetizer for your next gathering. Enjoy the satisfying taste of authentic Japanese flavors, crafted right in your kitchen.