Japanese Kanto cuisine is celebrated for its exquisite flavors and simple preparations, showcasing the best of local ingredients. One standout dish from this region is the delectable black pork grilled skewers, known for their rich taste and tender texture. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate this culinary delight in your own kitchen, you’re in luck! With just a few ingredients and some basic techniques, it’s entirely possible to make these delicious skewers at home.
What Makes Black Pork Special?
Black pork, or “kurobuta,” is a prized breed of pig in Japan known for its marbled meat and unparalleled flavor. The pigs are typically raised in the Kanto region, making this dish a true representation of local cuisine. The meat’s tenderness and juiciness make it the perfect choice for grilling, and when flavored with a few simple ingredients, it transforms into a mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make black pork grilled skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Black Pork (or alternatively, highquality pork belly): 500g, cut into bitesized cubes.
Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Mirin (sweet rice wine): 1 tablespoon
Sake: 1 tablespoon
Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon
Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
Green Onions: 23, cut into 2inch pieces (for garnish and flavor)
Skewers: Wooden or metal (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning)
StepbyStep Guide
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. This marinade will infuse the pork with flavor while keeping it moist during grilling.
2. Marinate the Pork: Add the black pork cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for a few hours to maximize the flavor.
3. Skewer the Meat: Once the pork is marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Thread the pieces of pork onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of green onion for added flavor and color. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely char when grilling.
4. Grilling: Preheat your grill or grill pan over mediumhigh heat. Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 34 minutes per side, or until they are nicely charred and cooked to your desired doneness. Be sure to baste the skewers with leftover marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve hot with extra green onions on top, and enjoy your homemade Japanese Kanto black pork grilled skewers!
Simple Yet Satisfying
Making black pork grilled skewers at home doesn’t require a huge culinary skillset. With highquality ingredients and a few simple steps, you can bring the flavors of Kanto cuisine right into your kitchen. These skewers are perfect for an outdoor barbecue, a cozy dinner, or even a casual gettogether with friends.
Elevate your home cooking with this delightful dish, and experience the rich culinary tradition of Japanese Kanto cuisine—one tender, juicy skewer at a time. Enjoy!