Yakis Recipe
Introduction to Yakis
Yakis is a delightful Japanese dish, known for its rich flavors and satisfying textures. The term "yakis" is derived from "yakiniku," which means grilled meat in Japanese. Typically, yakis is made by grilling or frying thin slices of meat, often accompanied by a variety of fresh vegetables, over a high heat. As culinary cultures began to merge, yakis has evolved into a dish that also incorporates elements of stir-frying and barbecue. It is not only a hallmark of Japanese cuisine but also a symbol of communal dining experiences.
This dish dates back to the early 20th century when influences from Western cooking began appearing in Japanese kitchens. Since then, yakis has been a beloved choice for both casual meals and special gatherings. Served with a harmonious blend of juicy, caramelized meats and crisp vegetables, it’s sure to please any palate.
Ingredients for Yakis
- Sliced Beef - 500g
- Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
- Mirin - 2 tablespoons
- Sake - 2 tablespoons
- Sugar - 1 tablespoon
- Ginger, minced - 2 teaspoons
- Garlic, minced - 3 cloves
- Green Onions, chopped - 2 stalks
- Cabbage, shredded - 1 cup
- Carrots, julienned - 1 cup
- Bell Peppers, sliced - 1 cup
- Vegetable Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Seeds - 1 tablespoon
- Rice, cooked - for serving
Preparation
The secret to a mouthwatering yakis lies in its marinade and fresh ingredients. Here's how you can prep each element:
Step 1: Marinating the Beef
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely. Add the minced ginger and garlic to the marinade, stirring to blend thoroughly. Place the beef slices into the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
While the beef marinates, focus on the vegetables. Wash and slice the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers into thin juliennes. Set them aside in separate bowls for easy access during the cooking process.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Stir-Frying the Ingredients
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over a medium-high setting. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef to the pan. Stir-fry the beef until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped green onions and stir for 1 minute until they are fragrant. Add the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened yet still crisp.
Step 3: Combining It All
Return the cooked beef to the pan with vegetables. Toss everything together, making sure the ingredients are well mixed and coated with the flavorful juices from the pan. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top as a garnish and stir well.
Enjoying Yakis
Yakis is best served immediately after cooking to capture its full flavor and aroma. Spoon the delicious mixture over a bed of freshly cooked rice to soak up the savory juices. For the ultimate experience, share this dish family-style with friends or loved ones, and pair it with traditional side dishes like miso soup or pickled vegetables.
Cooking Time
For best results, keep track of your timings with a cooking timer. The preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, and cooking takes an additional 15 minutes, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish.