Yuzu Karaage (Japanese Citrus-Marinated Fried Chicken)
Yuzu karaage is a citrus-accented variation of Japanese fried chicken that incorporates yuzu into the traditional soy-ginger marinade. Boneless chicken thighs are marinated in soy sauce, cooking sake, garlic, ginger, and yuzu marmalade, which infuses the meat with a floral citrus fragrance distinct from lemon or lime. After marinating, the pieces are coated in potato starch and deep-fried until the exterior turns shatteringly crisp while the inside stays moist and well-seasoned. The yuzu adds a bright, aromatic acidity that lifts the richness of the fried coating and dark soy marinade, giving each bite a clean finish rather than a heavy aftertaste.
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Instructions
- 1
Cut chicken thighs into bite-size pieces and pat dry.
- 2
Marinate chicken in soy sauce, sake, yuzu marmalade, garlic, and ginger for 15 minutes.
- 3
Coat marinated chicken evenly with potato starch.
- 4
Fry at 170C for 4 minutes, then rest briefly.
- 5
Refry at 190C for 1-2 minutes until extra crisp.
- 6
Drain excess oil and serve immediately.
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