HOW TO PREPARE YIKINIKU.

Yakiniku, often referred to as “Japanese BBQ,” is a popular culinary treat where diners grill small pieces of meat and vegetables at the table. The term “yakiniku” literally means “grilled meat” in Japanese. Here’s a basic guide to prepare yakiniku at home:

Ingredients:
For the Meat:

Thinly sliced beef (sirloin, ribeye, or other prime cuts)
Pork belly slices
Offal (like liver or intestine) if you enjoy them
Chicken (thighs, breasts or wings)
For the Vegetables:

Sliced bell peppers
Sliced onions
Sliced carrots
Shitake mushrooms
Thinly sliced garlic
Shishito peppers or other small mild peppers
For the Sauce (Yakiniku Tare):

½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup mirin
¼ cup sake
3 tbsp sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp honey or more to taste
A pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Preparation of Meat & Veggies:

Wash and slice the vegetables.
Arrange the meat and veggies on separate plates.
Preparing the Yakiniku Sauce (Tare):

Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a saucepan.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat and let it gently cook for about 5 minutes.
Add honey and, if you want some heat, a pinch of chili flakes.
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Grilling the Meat and Veggies:

If using a tabletop grill: Heat it up and ensure that the exhaust or smoke collector (if your model has one) is functioning.
If using a regular grill: Ensure the grill is clean and at the right temperature.
Place meat and veggies on the grill. Use tongs or grilling chopsticks for easy flipping.
Grill meat slices for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until your desired doneness.
Grill vegetables until they’re tender and slightly charred.
Eating Yakiniku:

As you grill, dip the cooked meat and veggies into the yakiniku sauce.
Serve with steamed rice and other desired sides like kimchi or assorted pickles.
Enjoy your yakiniku experience! Remember, part of the joy of yakiniku is the shared experience of cooking and eating together with friends or family.