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Irresistible Crispy Karaage

Irresistible Crispy Karaage: Your New Favorite Fried Chicken

Irresistible Crispy Karaage is a delightful Japanese fried chicken that transforms any meal into a festive occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs Stick with thighs for the best flavor and moisture.
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce Low-sodium options are great for controlling salt levels.
  • 2 tablespoons Sake White wine is a good substitute if you don't have sake.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Brings a robust flavor to the dish.
  • 1 inch Fresh Ginger Grate to infuse the marinade with warmth.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Potato Starch or Cornstarch Crucial for getting that irresistible crispy texture.
For Frying
  • 2 inches Oil for Frying A neutral oil, like vegetable or canola.

Equipment

  • Deep pan
  • Thermometer

Method
 

How to Make Irresistible Crispy Karaage
  1. Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and mix them with soy sauce, sake, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour for maximum flavor.
  2. In a separate bowl, add potato starch or cornstarch. This will be the secret to achieving that glorious crunchy texture.
  3. Pour two inches of neutral oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough; you can test it with a drop of batter—it should sizzle!
  4. Carefully coat the marinated chicken pieces in the starch and then fry them in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding for the best results.
  5. Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil, allowing it to rest for a minute.
  6. Plate your delicious Karaage and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, like ponzu, for an exciting flavor boost!

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra touch.