Japanese Yakimono Recipe 

Yakimono is a Japanese word that literally translates as ‘grilled things’ in English. While not a specific dish, the term refers to all grilled foods in Japanese cuisine, which can be anything from steaks to gyoza.

The cooking method of grilling over direct heat gives the food a distinct smokey flavor. Traditionally, Yakimono was always cooked over an open flame, however, the term now covers anything cooked over direct heat – whether that’s a fire, a BBQ, or a grill. 

Yakimono is a simple and uncomplicated way to prepare food; however, it’s an essential part of Japanese food culture and is popular all over the country. The most popular Yakimono dishes use beef, chicken, fish, and vegetables that have been soaked in sweet vinegar.

Yakimono often involves cooking meat or fish on a bamboo skewer, but not always – any grilled food is considered Yakimono. 

Origin and Cultural Significance

Yakimono – or cooking over a grill or open flame – first became popular in the Edo period (1603 – 1868) and quickly became a cultural tradition. Japan has a profound connection with nature, which extends to food. The subtle smokey flavor enhances the natural flavors of fresh meat, fish, or vegetables. 

Japanese culture follows the traditional “shin” principle, meaning to “enjoy ingredients at their peak” and Yakimono only uses fresh, seasonable ingredients. Yakimono was thought to have originated with soldiers grilling meat on their swords over open fires. 

Yakimono isn’t just a meal, it’s a way to bring people together. Grilling usually takes place outside, with families and friends gathering around the grill. Yakimono is enjoyed in homes and restaurants across the country and often enjoyed at special occasions and holidays. 

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Japanese Yakimono Recipe

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Additional Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Yakimono is a Japanese word that literally translates to “grilled things”. While not a specific dish, the term refers to all grilled foods - which can be anything from steaks to gyoza.

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Ingredients

• Salmon fillets - 4 pieces (6 oz each)
• Soy sauce - 3 tbsp
• Mirin - 2 tbsp
• Sake - 2 tbsp
• Miso paste - 2 tbsp
• Brown sugar - 1 tbsp
• Sesame oil - 1 tsp
• Green onions (chopped) - 2 tbsp
• Sesame seeds (for garnish) - 1 tsp

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, miso paste, brown sugar, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and coat them with the marinade. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes, ensuring the flavors penetrate the fish.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the fillets on the grill, skin side down.
5. Grill the salmon for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. 
6. Baste the fillets with the remaining marinade during grilling for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Garnish the grilled salmon with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 544Total Fat: 30gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 143mgSodium: 1116mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 1gSugar: 7gProtein: 52g

Nutrition is provided and calculated by Nutritionix. It is for general information purposes and is only a rough estimation.