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Savory Japanese Fried Chicken

Crispy Savory Japanese Fried Chicken: A Healthier Delight

This homemade Savory Japanese Fried Chicken, or Karaage, is a delightful and healthier take on a classic dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marination Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Substitute with gluten-free tamari if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Sake Enhances depth of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Grated Ginger Fresh ginger provides the best flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced garlic elevates the flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Provides a nutty undertone.
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Juicy, boneless, skinless.
  • 1/2 cup Potato Starch Gluten-free option; contributes to crunch.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Helps achieve a crispy outer layer.
For Frying
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil High smoke point oil.
For Serving
  • 2 pieces Lemon Wedges Adds a refreshing squeeze of citrus.
  • 1/4 cup Japanese Mayo Optional for dipping.

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Deep Pan or Wok
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Method
 

How to Make Savory Japanese Fried Chicken
  1. Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce, sake, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Coat chicken thighs in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to up to 4 hours.
  3. Coat Chicken: In a separate bowl, combine potato starch and flour. Remove chicken from marinade and coat in the starch-flour mixture.
  4. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil to 170°C (340°F). Check by dropping a small piece of coating into the oil; it should sizzle.
  5. Fry the Chicken: Fry chicken in small batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Drain: Transfer fried chicken to paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Marination for up to 4 hours enhances flavor absorption. Maintain oil temperature for best results when frying.

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