Karaage fried chicken is a delicious preparation originating from Japan that has transcended its borders to become a very popular dish all over the world. The karaage technique involves marinating the meat, usually chicken, in a mixture of seasonings and then frying it until it achieves a crispy texture on the outside and remains juicy on the inside. In various Latin American countries, this type of fried chicken may have different names or variations, although it is generally recognized simply as "Japanese-style fried chicken" or "chicken karaage." Its popularity is due to the perfect combination of umami flavors with a crispy golden coating that is irresistible.
The origin of karaage dates back to the Chinese culinary influence in Japan during the Meiji period, although over time the Japanese developed their own very characteristic version. The key lies in the marinade with ingredients such as Japanese sake, which adds a special touch to the flavor and improves the chicken's texture. This preparation method is not only common in Japanese households but also in izakayas (traditional bars) and restaurants worldwide.
How to Prepare Japanese Karaage Fried Chicken
To begin, cut the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces.
Sprinkle one teaspoon of salt and one tablespoon of Japanese sake over the meat, then knead it and let it rest for about 30 minutes so the flavors penetrate well.
Dry the meat with paper towels and place it along with all the spices and flour in a plastic bag.
Knead the bag so that all the spices and flour completely coat each piece of meat.
Fill a frying pan with vegetable oil for frying and heat it over medium heat.
When the pan is hot enough, place the meat in it. If your pan is large enough, you can put all the meat in at once.
If you see the meat sizzle 2 seconds after placing it in the oil, the temperature is right for frying.
Fry the meat for approximately 7 to 8 minutes, then slightly increase the heat to achieve a perfect golden color.
When the chicken is golden and crispy, remove it from the pan and let it rest on paper towels to remove excess oil.
For a final delicious touch, sprinkle lemon juice over the karaage fried chicken before serving, which intensifies its flavor and freshness.
Ingredients: Chicken thigh meat, salt, Japanese sake, flour, curry powder, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, other seasonings to taste.
