Salmon yakitori

Salmon Yakitori is a delectable twist on the traditional Japanese street food, typically made with chicken. This version elevates the classic yakitori by using rich, succulent salmon, which is marinated and then grilled to perfection. It brings together the smoky, charred flavors of the grill with the sweet and savory notes of the marinade, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience. Below is a detailed guide on how to create this dish, inspired by recipes from Saveur and Spices Inc.

Ingredients for the Salmon Yakitori

• For Saveur's recipe:
  • Dark soy sauce: 7 tablespoons
  • Mirin: 7 tablespoons
  • Sake: 7 tablespoons
  • Sugar: 2 tablespoons
  • Boneless, skin-on Norwegian salmon filet: 2 lb, cut into 1" cubes
• For Spices Inc.'s recipe:
  • Fresh Salmon: 2 Lbs, cut into 3/4 inch pieces
  • Scallions: 1 Bunch, cut into 3/4 inch pieces
  • Sake: 1 Cup
  • Mirin: 1/2 Cup
  • Garlic cloves: 2, minced fine
  • Fresh Ginger root: 1 Tsp, minced fine
  • Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 Tsp
  • Demerara Sugar: 3 Tbsp (or granulated white sugar)
  • Dark Soy sauce: 2 Tbsp
  • Low Sodium Soy sauce: 1/2 Cup
  • Shichimi Togarashi and Sansho pepper, for garnish
  • Wooden skewers: 16, 12 inch

Preparation Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: Combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a bowl. Add the salmon, ensuring it's well coated, then refrigerate overnight. Soak wooden skewers in water overnight to prevent burning.
2. Grill the Salmon: Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting. Thread the salmon cubes onto the soaked skewers. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and slightly charred, about 5 minutes.
3. Spices Inc.'s Approach: Soak your skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling. Thread the salmon and scallion pieces alternately on the skewers. Grill about 2 minutes per side, brushing with the sauce while cooking.

Storage and Reheating

To store, place the cooled yakitori in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, covered, to avoid drying out the salmon.

Nutritional Information

This dish is a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients used but expect a high protein content alongside moderate amounts of sodium and sugar from the marinade.

FAQ about the Salmon Yakitori

Q: Can I use a different type of fish? A: Yes, while salmon offers a rich flavor and texture, you could experiment with other firm fish like tuna or swordfish.

Q: Is it possible to bake the yakitori instead of grilling? A: Yes, you can broil the skewers in the oven, keeping them close to the heat source for a similar charred effect.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Salmon Yakitori, a dish that promises to be a delightful addition to any meal, combining traditional Japanese cooking techniques with the rich flavors of salmon.

Original recipes credited to Saveur​​ and Spices Inc.​​.