Whole fish is a staple in Japanese cuisine, often used in traditional dishes such as sushi and sashimi. But there's more to this versatile ingredient than just raw preparations. In fact, there are many delicious and easy ways to prepare a whole fish that are perfect for any occasion. With its delicate and mild flavor, a whole fish can be transformed into a flavorful and impressive dish that will leave your guests wanting more. In this article, we'll share a classic Japanese whole fish recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine and can be found in convenience stores, cafes, and homes across the country. This recipe takes a twist on the classic onigiri by adding in delicious chunks of salmon and a crunchy black sesame coating. These make for the perfect appetizer or snack while grilling up some beer can chicken.
This savory Japanese pancake is a must-try for any grilling enthusiast. Okonomiyaki literally means "grilled as you like it" and that's exactly how this dish is prepared. It's a delicious mix of cabbage, pork belly, and a variety of other toppings, all grilled to perfection. Serve this up alongside your beer can chicken for a full Japanese-inspired meal.
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Sushi Burrito
Main Ingredients: Japanese Rice Vinegar, Medium Grain Rice, Japanese
Who says you can't have sushi while grilling? This unique recipe combines the flavors of a sushi roll with the convenience of a burrito. It's the perfect handheld dish for a backyard BBQ or a picnic in the park. Plus, the added protein from the chicken will keep you feeling satisfied and fueled for the rest of your day.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Another take on the classic Japanese rice balls, this recipe uses a combination of white and brown rice for added texture and flavor. The rice is mixed with a delicious soy sauce and sesame oil dressing and then stuffed with your choice of filling, such as chicken, avocado, or pickled vegetables. It's a great side dish to accompany your beer can chicken.
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Japanese Inspired Sous Vide Duck
Main Ingredients: Duck Breast, Yuzu Juice, Japanese Soy Sauce, Mirin
If you're looking for a fancier dish to impress your guests, this Japanese inspired sous vide duck is the way to go. The duck breast is cooked to perfection using the sous vide method and then glazed with a delicious teriyaki-style sauce. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a meal that will have your guests talking for weeks.
Don't let the name scare you away, this dish is a must-try for any seafood lover. The striped bass head is marinated in a flavorful miso paste and then grilled until tender and crispy. This unique dish is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ and pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
Udon noodles are a staple in Japanese cuisine and this dish is a great introduction for those who have never tried them before. The noodles are stir-fried with a variety of vegetables, protein, and a delicious soy sauce-based sauce. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that pairs well with any grilled meat, including beer can chicken.
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Japanese Salmon Bowl
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Rice Wine Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Chilli Sauce
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious meal, look no further than this Japanese salmon bowl. It's a combination of marinated salmon, avocado, edamame, and other nutritious ingredients, all served over a bed of rice. The flavors in this dish complement each other perfectly and make for a great accompaniment to beer can chicken.
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Japanese Teriyaki-Style Glazed Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillets, Sea Salt, Cracked Black Pepper, Grape
Add some Asian flair to your beer can chicken with this delicious teriyaki-style glazed salmon. The salmon is marinated in a flavorful teriyaki sauce and then grilled to perfection. Serve it up alongside your chicken for a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
This dish may seem intimidating, but it's actually quite simple to prepare. A whole fish is stuffed with a variety of herbs and spices and then roasted until tender and flaky. The end result is a flavorful and impressive dish that will pair perfectly with your beer can chicken.
If you're a fan of sushi, you have to try these homemade sushi rolls. They're filled with your choice of protein, vegetables, and sushi rice, all wrapped up in a sheet of nori. Serve them alongside your beer can chicken for a diverse and delicious meal.
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Japanese Cabbage Salad
Main Ingredients: Shredded Coleslaw Mix, Granulated Sugar, Light Soy
This simple and refreshing salad is the perfect side dish for any grilled meal, including beer can chicken. It's a combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a delicious dressing made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. It's a great way to add some veggies to your meal and balance out the flavors.
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Japanese-style Ceviche
Main Ingredients: Fresh Salmon, Ginger, Garlic Cloves, Sugar, Wasabi
Ceviche may not be a traditional Japanese dish, but this recipe uses Japanese flavors to create a unique and flavorful twist on the classic dish. The fish is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and other seasonings, creating a delicious and refreshing appetizer or side dish to pair with your beer can chicken.
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Okonomiyaki (Savory Japanese Pancake)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Corn Starch, Baking Powder, Salt
Another take on the classic okonomiyaki, this recipe uses a combination of shrimp and pork belly for added protein and flavor. The pancake is topped with a variety of sauces and toppings, making it a delicious and filling dish to pair with your beer can chicken.
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How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
If you're new to making onigiri, this recipe is a great place to start. It breaks down the process step by step and includes tips and tricks to get the perfect rice ball every time. Once you've mastered this dish, you can experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your own unique onigiri to enjoy alongside your beer can chicken.
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Hiyayakko (Japanese Cold Tofu)
Main Ingredients: Silken Tofu, Spring Onion, Ginger, Bonito, Japanese Soy
If you're looking for a light and refreshing dish to accompany your beer can chicken, look no further than hiyayakko. This dish is simply chilled tofu topped with a variety of toppings, such as green onions, bonito flakes, and soy sauce. It's a simple and delicious dish that's perfect for a hot summer day.
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SUSHI
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Rice Vinegar, Sugar, Nori, Fish, Carrot
Why not try your hand at making your own sushi to accompany your beer can chicken? This recipe breaks down the process step by step and includes tips for making perfect sushi rice. You can customize the fillings to your liking and impress your guests with your sushi-making skills.
This Japanese omelette, known as tamagoyaki, is a great addition to any grilled meal. It's a rolled omelette made with a sweet and savory sauce and can be served warm or cold. It's a great way to add some protein to your meal and pairs well with beer can chicken.
This version of okonomiyaki is loaded with cabbage and topped with a delicious sauce made with mayonnaise and okonomiyaki sauce. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for pairing with beer can chicken.
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1 egg tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette)
Main Ingredients: Large Egg, Water, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Bonito Flakes
If you're looking for a simple and quick dish to add to your meal, this 1 egg tamagoyaki is the way to go. It's a smaller version of the traditional Japanese omelette and can be made in just a few minutes. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Ginger and Scallion Whole Fish
Ingredients:
1 whole fish (such as sea bass or red snapper), cleaned and scaled
2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and cut into thin strips
4-5 scallions, cut into thin strips
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon mirin
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
To make this delicious ginger and scallion whole fish, start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse the fish and pat it dry with paper towels. Score the fish on both sides with a sharp knife, making three diagonal cuts on each side.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Place the fish on a large piece of aluminum foil and season it with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity of the fish with the ginger, scallions, and garlic. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the fish, making sure to coat both sides. Wrap the fish tightly in the foil, leaving a little room for air to circulate.
Place the foil-wrapped fish on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Transfer the fish to a serving platter and open the foil carefully to avoid any steam. Garnish with additional scallions and serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.
This ginger and scallion whole fish is a delicious and impressive dish that captures the flavors of Japanese cuisine. The combination of ginger, scallions, and soy sauce adds an aromatic and savory element to the delicate fish, making it a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the presentation of a whole fish is sure to impress your guests and make any meal feel special.
Next time you're looking for a new way to prepare fish, give this Japanese whole fish recipe a try. It's a simple and flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
