15 Japanese Grilled Tongue Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!

The Origins of Grilled Tongue

Grilled tongue, or Gyutan, has a fascinating history that dates back to the Meiji period in Japan. During this time, beef was not commonly consumed in Japan as it was considered a luxury item. However, the city of Sendai, located in the northeastern region of Japan, had a surplus of beef due to its thriving cattle industry. As a result, the locals in Sendai began experimenting with different cuts of beef, including the tongue, which was often discarded. They soon discovered that the tongue was not only delicious, but also tender and easy to cook. Thus, the traditional Japanese grilled tongue recipe was born.

The Ingredients

To make the perfect grilled tongue, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs of beef tongue
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup of soy sauce
• 1/2 cup of mirin
• 1/4 cup of sake
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of grated ginger

The key ingredient for this dish is the beef tongue, which can be easily found at your local butcher or Asian market. It is important to choose a high-quality cut of tongue for the best flavor and texture. The other ingredients, such as the soy sauce, mirin, and sake, are staples in Japanese cooking and can be found in most grocery stores.

The Preparation

To prepare the tongue, you will first need to peel off the tough outer layer with a knife or peeler. Then, slice the tongue into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. Next, make the marinade by combining the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sliced onion in a large bowl. Add the sliced tongue to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a more intense flavor.

The Grilling Process

To grill the tongue, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the tongue slices from the marinade and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the tongue, as it can become tough and chewy. Once done, remove the tongue from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, grilled tongue is served with a side of rice and a simple salad. However, you can also serve it with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy, for a healthier option. Some people also like to dip their tongue in a mixture of soy sauce and wasabi for an extra kick of flavor.

In Conclusion

The Japanese grilled tongue recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its origins in Sendai, this dish has become a staple in Japanese cuisine and has gained popularity all over the world. So why not try making it at home and experience the unique taste of grilled tongue for yourself?