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Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage)

Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage): Crispy, Juicy Perfection

Experience the flavors of Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage), a crispy, juicy delight perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 4 minutes
Total Time 44 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Cooking Sake Can replace with unsalted sake.
  • 2 tablespoons Mirin Sugar can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Grated Ginger
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thigh Fillets Breast can be used but may result in dryer meat.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Corn Flour/Cornstarch Can mix with plain flour for a different finish.
For Frying
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil Ensure enough to fully submerge the chicken.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Shredded Lettuce or Cabbage Fresh, crunchy accompaniment.

Equipment

  • Deep pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • ziplock bag or bowl
  • thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large ziplock bag or bowl, combine the chicken thigh fillets with soy sauce, cooking sake, freshly grated ginger, and mirin. Massage the mixture into the chicken and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 160°C/320°F and prepare the chicken by draining excess marinade, patting dry, then coating evenly with corn flour.
  3. Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil in small batches and fry for 2.5 to 3 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels for 3 to 4 minutes to drain excess oil.
  4. Increase the oil temperature to 190-200°C/374-392°F and return the first batch to the oil for a second frying of 30 seconds to 1 minute until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Serve the crispy, juicy Karaage on a bed of shredded lettuce or cabbage, pairing with sides like daikon salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Ensure to follow the tips for perfect oil temperature and avoiding overcrowding during frying.

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