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Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs)

Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs) Recipe

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Indulge in the delightful experience of making Tsukune, Japanese Chicken Meatballs. These juicy and lightly seasoned chicken skewers are perfect for grilling and add a savory twist to any meal. The combination of tender ground chicken and a homemade sweet and salty tare sauce creates a flavor explosion that will wow your guests—ideal for backyard barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners. Easy to prepare, versatile in serving options, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger
  • 2 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic (about 2 medium cloves)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • For the Tare Sauce: 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple juice vinegar
  • 3 medium cloves of garlic, smashed and peeled
  • 3 scallions, roughly chopped
  • 1 (1-inch) piece of ginger, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon whole black or white peppercorns

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tare sauce by simmering soy sauce, apple juice vinegar, dark brown sugar, garlic, scallions, ginger, and peppercorns until syrupy. Strain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken thighs, panko bread crumbs, chopped scallions, egg, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Mix well and form into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Thread meatballs onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until cooked through and browned.
  4. Brush with tare sauce while grilling for added flavor.

Nutrition

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