Looking for a tasty and healthy snack? Look no further than Japanese Yakitori! At only 150 calories for 1 1/2 cups (182 g), this grilled chicken dish is a great choice for anyone trying to eat healthier.

Not only is Yakitori low in calories, it's also packed with protein and has minimal fat content. It's a filling and satisfying choice that won't leave you feeling guilty about your food choices.

If you're looking to add more variety to your diet while also staying healthy, here's everything you need to know about Yakitori!

What is Yakitori?

Yakitori is a Japanese dish consisting of grilled chicken on skewers. The term 'yakitori' literally means grilled chicken, with 'yaki' meaning grilled and 'tori' meaning chicken. The skewered chicken is grilled over charcoal and typically seasoned with salt or a sweet soy sauce called tare. It can also be seasoned with other spices or sauces depending on the restaurant or region. Yakitori is typically served as a snack or appetizer, but can also be eaten as a main dish. It's a popular street food in Japan and is often enjoyed with a cold beer or sake. In addition to chicken, yakitori can also be made with other types of meat such as pork, beef, or seafood. However, chicken remains the most popular protein used in Yakitori.

Calories in Yakitori

As mentioned previously, Yakitori is a low calorie option for those who are watching their diet. A serving of 1 1/2 cups (182 g) only contains around 150 calories. This makes it a great choice for those who want to indulge in a flavorful snack without consuming too many calories. However, it's important to note that the calorie count can vary depending on how the Yakitori is prepared. If it's cooked with a heavy sauce or marinade, the calorie count can increase significantly. It's best to opt for Yakitori that's seasoned with a light sauce or is simply seasoned with salt.

Fat and Protein Content in Yakitori

In addition to being low in calories, Yakitori is also a good source of protein. A serving of 1 1/2 cups (182 g) contains around 20 grams of protein. This makes it a great choice for those who are looking to increase their protein intake. When it comes to fat content, Yakitori is a relatively low-fat option. However, it's important to keep in mind that the fat content can vary depending on the cut of meat used. For example, Yakitori made with chicken breast will be lower in fat than Yakitori made with chicken thighs.

Yakitori Portions

It's important to keep serving sizes in mind when enjoying Yakitori. While it's a low calorie and high protein option, consuming too much of it can still lead to overeating. A serving size of Yakitori is around 1 1/2 cups (182 g), which contains approximately 150 calories. If you're eating Yakitori as a main dish, it's best to pair it with a side of vegetables or grains to create a balanced meal.

Health Benefits of Yakitori

Aside from being a low calorie and high protein option, Yakitori also has other health benefits. Chicken is a good source of B vitamins, which help to keep your metabolism functioning properly. Chicken is also a good source of niacin, a nutrient that is important for cardiovascular health. When Yakitori is seasoned with light spices or sauces, it can also provide other health benefits. For example, adding ginger to Yakitori can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Adding garlic to Yakitori can help to boost the immune system. Overall, Yakitori is a tasty and healthy snack that can be enjoyed guilt-free!

Yakitori Cooking Techniques

When it comes to preparing Yakitori, there are a few key techniques to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to use high-quality chicken to ensure that it cooks evenly and has a good flavor. Cutting the chicken into uniform pieces and soaking the skewers in water before grilling can also help to prevent the chicken from drying out. Another key technique is to use a charcoal grill to cook the Yakitori. This gives it a smoky flavor that's hard to replicate with other cooking methods. When grilling Yakitori, it's important to brush the skewers with a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.

Varieties of Yakitori

While chicken is the most popular protein used in Yakitori, it can also be made with other types of meat and seafood. For example, pork belly Yakitori is a popular variation that's often served with a spicy sauce. Beef Yakitori is another variation that's often made with tenderloin or ribeye. Vegetarian options for Yakitori are also available. Grilled tofu, mushrooms, and eggplant are popular choices for those who prefer a plant-based diet.

Yakitori Dipping Sauces

There are several different sauces that can be paired with Yakitori to add flavor. Tare is a sweet and savory sauce that's made with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. It's often brushed onto the Yakitori while it's grilling to create a caramelized glaze. Other popular sauces include ponzu, which is a citrus-based sauce that adds a tangy flavor to Yakitori. Ginger sauce and spicy mayo are also popular choices.

Yakitori Serving Suggestions

Yakitori is traditionally served on small skewers, making it a great option for parties and gatherings. It can be served as a snack or appetizer, or as a main course paired with rice and vegetables. For an authentic Japanese Yakitori experience, pair it with a cold beer or sake. Green tea is also a great choice to pair with Yakitori, as it helps to cleanse the palate between bites.

Is Yakitori Gluten-Free?

Yakitori is typically gluten-free, as it's made with simple ingredients such as chicken and spices. However, it's important to check the sauce used to season the Yakitori, as some sauces may contain gluten. If you're following a gluten-free diet, it's best to opt for Yakitori that's seasoned with a light sauce or is simply seasoned with salt.