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Crispy Chicken Karaage

Crispy Chicken Karaage: Irresistibly Crunchy Japanese Delight

Crispy Chicken Karaage is a delightful twist on traditional Japanese fried chicken, combining juicy marinated chicken with a perfectly crisp coating.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinate
  • 1/4 cup Dark Soy Sauce Regular soy sauce can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Sugar can be used instead.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh minced garlic is preferred.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger Grated ginger for authenticity; ground ginger can substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Sake Can be omitted but affects taste.
For the Coating
  • 1 lb Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner but drier alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Potato Starch Cornstarch can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be substituted.
For Frying
  • 3 cups Sunflower Oil Neutral oils like canola can also be used.

Equipment

  • Digital Thermometer
  • Sturdy Pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into small, even pieces, about 1-2 inches in size. Trim any excess fat.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Combine minced garlic, grated ginger, dark soy sauce, honey, and sake in a bowl. Add chicken and coat well, then marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
  3. Prepare the Coating: Mix potato starch and all-purpose flour together. Coat marinated chicken pieces with the flour-starch mixture.
  4. Heat the Oil: Heat sunflower oil over medium heat until it reaches 160-165°C (320-329°F). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
  5. First Frying: Fry the chicken pieces for about 90 seconds until light golden. Drain on a wire rack.
  6. Increase Oil Temperature: Raise oil temperature to 190°C (375°F) for the second fry.
  7. Second Frying: Fry the chicken for an additional 45 seconds to 1 minute until deep golden brown.
  8. Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reads 75°C (165°F) using a thermometer.
  9. Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and consider adding Japanese Seven Spice and wasabi mayo.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, monitor the oil temperature and fry in batches to achieve the best crunchy texture. Possible flavor variations include adding lime juice or chili flakes to the marinade.

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