Japanese – Yakitori

Yakitori (焼き鳥) is a popular Japanese dish consisting of grilled chicken skewers. The term “yakitori” literally translates to “grilled bird,” and while it typically refers to chicken, it can also be made with other meats or vegetables. The dish is enjoyed as a casual snack or appetizer, often served at izakayas (Japanese pubs) or street food stalls.

Key Features of Yakitori:

Main Ingredient:
- The primary ingredient in yakitori is chicken, but various cuts are used, each offering a different texture and flavor. Common cuts include:
  - Momo: Chicken thigh, tender and juicy.
  - Negima: Chicken thigh with scallions (green onions).
  - Tsukune: Chicken meatballs, often mixed with spices or vegetables.
  - Kawa: Chicken skin, which becomes crispy when grilled.
  - Tebasaki: Chicken wings.
  - Reba: Chicken liver, often served for its rich, savory flavor.
Seasoning and Sauce:
- Tare: The most common seasoning is a sweet soy-based sauce called tare, made with soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. It’s brushed onto the skewers while they grill.
- Shio: Some yakitori is simply seasoned with salt (shio) rather than tare, allowing the natural flavor of the chicken to shine.
Grilling Method:
- Yakitori is traditionally cooked over binchotan charcoal, a type of white charcoal known for its clean, steady heat. The use of charcoal adds a distinct smokiness and depth of flavor to the chicken.
Skewering:
- The chicken and other ingredients are skewered onto bamboo sticks, making them easy to grill and eat.

Types of Yakitori:

Classic Yakitori:
- Skewered chicken pieces, grilled and glazed with tare sauce, often served as a quick snack or appetizer.
Negima Yakitori:
- A version of yakitori with chicken and green onions alternated on the skewer, offering a mix of flavors.
Tsukune:
- Ground chicken formed into meatballs and grilled, often served with tare or a dipping sauce.
Kawa (Chicken Skin):
- Grilled chicken skin that becomes crispy and flavorful, a favorite for those who enjoy rich, savory bites.
Tebasaki (Chicken Wings):
- Grilled chicken wings, often seasoned with tare or salt, providing a crispy and tender texture.

Cultural Significance:

Yakitori is a casual food that is enjoyed by many, often paired with beer or sake at an izakaya (Japanese pub).
It is also commonly found at festivals, street food stalls, and food markets in Japan.
The focus is on simplicity and high-quality ingredients, with each bite showcasing the natural flavor of the chicken or other meat being used.

Fun Fact:

Yakitori can vary greatly depending on the region in Japan, and different styles of skewers, sauces, or accompaniments are used. For example, in some regions, the skewers are served with rice, pickles, or salads to balance the rich, savory flavors of the meat.