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The Difference Between Yakitori and Other Grilled Dishes

When it comes to famous grilled dishes worldwide, it’s impossible not to mention Yakitori, a unique Japanese specialty. However, with the popularity of many other grilled dishes, such as Korean BBQ and European-style grilling, many diners often wonder about the differences between these types of grilled foods. This article will help you explore the distinctive factors that set Yakitori apart from other grilled dishes, from preparation methods and seasonings to the ingredients used.

The Difference Between Yakitori and Other Grilled Dishes
The Difference Between Yakitori and Other Grilled Dishes

Omakase Yakitori at Torikami Singapore: The Ultimate Yakitori Experience

If you're looking for a different and upscale dining experience, Omakase Yakitori at Torikami is the perfect choice to discover the finesse of Yakitori and other grilled dishes in a cozy and elegant setting. Torikami proudly offers a unique Omakase menu where our talented chefs prepare each yakitori skewer from carefully selected chicken, grilled over Binchotan charcoal. Each dish is meticulously crafted, bringing the perfect balance of the natural flavors of the chicken and the delicate Japanese seasonings, showcasing our dedication to expertly prepared grilled dishes.

Omakase Yakitori at Torikami Singapore
Omakase Yakitori at Torikami Singapore

A Distinctive Dining Experience at Torikami

Omakase Yakitori at Torikami isn’t just a meal; it’s a one-of-a-kind culinary journey. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy skewers made from various parts of the chicken, such as breast, thigh, skin, and other cuts, all perfectly grilled over Binchotan charcoal. We take pride in our grilled dishes, using traditional seasonings like tare and shio (salt), which offer a deep yet subtle flavor, ensuring the freshness of the ingredients is preserved.

A Distinctive Dining Experience at Torikami
A Distinctive Dining Experience at Torikami

Come to Torikami Singapore to explore the difference of Omakase Yakitori and other grilled dishes, and let our talented chefs create an unforgettable meal for you! Book your table today and enjoy an exceptional Japanese culinary experience, where each dish is a work of art

1. Yakitori – The Signature Japanese Grilled Dish

Yakitori (焼鳥), which means "grilled chicken" in Japanese, is a traditional Japanese dish made from various parts of chicken (such as breast, thigh, skin, heart, or gizzard) skewered and grilled over an open flame. However, what makes yakitori special isn’t just the ingredients but the grilling process and the unique flavors it brings.

Yakitori – The Signature Japanese Grilled Dish
Yakitori – The Signature Japanese Grilled Dish

Grilling Method for Yakitori

One of the most significant differences of yakitori lies in the grilling method. Grilled dishes like yakitori are typically grilled over charcoal, which imparts a distinctive smoky flavor, and the result is crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. The use of Binchotan charcoal is preferred due to its even heat distribution and the smoky aroma it adds to the dish.

Grilling Method for Yakitori
Grilling Method for Yakitori

What sets yakitori apart is not just grilling the chicken but turning it into an art form. The chef needs to carefully control the temperature and grilling time to ensure each skewer achieves perfect doneness without drying out or losing its natural flavor, making it a standout among other grilled dishes

Seasonings and Flavors

Yakitori is typically grilled with two primary seasonings: tare (a sweet soy-based sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar) and shio (salt). Tare brings a savory-sweet depth, while shio enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. Some chefs may brush an additional layer of tare during grilling to create a caramelized, sweet outer coating, adding a tantalizing layer of flavor to this classic grilled dish. These seasoning techniques elevate yakitori, making it stand out as one of the most flavorful grilled dishes.

Seasonings and Flavors
Seasonings and Flavors

2. Korean BBQ – Direct Heat and Distinct Meat SelectionKorean BBQ

Korean BBQ (known as Gogi-gui) is also one of the world’s most popular grilling styles, with its unique characteristics. While yakitori primarily focuses on chicken, Korean BBQ offers a wide range of meats, such as beef, pork, and lamb, all marinated and grilled directly on a tabletop grill.

Korean BBQ – Direct Heat and Distinct Meat SelectionKorean BBQ
Korean BBQ – Direct Heat and Distinct Meat SelectionKorean BBQ (Cre: Internet)

Grilling Method for Korean BBQ

One of the defining features of Korean BBQ is grilling meat on an electric grill or charcoal grill at the table, often with holes where excess fat can drip away, resulting in a crispy texture. This is typically served as a DIY experience where diners cook their own meat to their preferred doneness and enjoy it while it’s still sizzling.

Grilling Method for Korean BBQ (Cre: Internet)
Grilling Method for Korean BBQ (Cre: Internet)

Seasonings and Flavors

Korean BBQ meats are typically marinated with a combination of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, honey, and sesame, creating a bold, spicy-sweet flavor. In addition, side dishes like kimchi, fresh vegetables, and various dipping sauces play a significant role in enriching the overall meal.





Seasonings and Flavors (Cre: Internet)
Seasonings and Flavors (Cre: Internet)

3. European Grilling – Sophistication and Variety of Ingredients

In Western cuisine, grilling dishes like steak or grilled vegetables are also very popular. European-style grilling tends to be simpler but focuses on the quality of ingredients and seasoning.

European Grilling – Sophistication and Variety of Ingredients (Cre: Internet)
European Grilling – Sophistication and Variety of Ingredients (Cre: Internet)

Grilling Method for European Dishes

European grilling is typically done over direct flame or in an oven. Meats like beef, lamb, or pork are grilled directly over the flame or roasted in the oven until reaching the desired doneness, which varies based on the individual's taste. Unlike yakitori, which involves skewering the meat and grilling it in sequence, European grilling often focuses on larger cuts of meat, which are served whole and then sliced for eating. Both styles are beloved for their grilled dishes, but European grilling tends to emphasize larger portions, while yakitori offers a more precise, skewered approach.

Grilling Method for European Dishes (Cre: Internet)
Grilling Method for European Dishes (Cre: Internet)

Seasonings and Flavors

Seasonings for European grilling are usually simpler, using salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. Some dishes are marinated in olive oil and spices, creating a crispy outer crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.

Seasonings and Flavors  (Cre: Internet)
Seasonings and Flavors (Cre: Internet)

Key Differences Between Yakitori and Other Grilled Dishes

Factor

Yakitori

Korean BBQ

European Grilling

Main Ingredient

Chicken (various parts)

Beef, pork, lamb, chicken

Beef, lamb, pork, seafood, vegetables

Grilling Method

Grilled on charcoal (skewered)

Grilled directly on tabletop grill

Grilled over direct flame or in an oven

Seasonings

Tare (sweet sauce) or shio (salt)

Gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, honey

Salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, olive oil

Serving Style

Skewered meat served in sequence

DIY grilling at the table with sides

Grilled meat served whole, sliced

Dining Experience

Enjoyed one skewer at a time

Enjoyed with various side dishes

Enjoyed with simple side dishes

Omakase Yakitori at Torikami Singapore: A Premium Dining Experience

If you are looking for a refined dining experience, Omakase Yakitori at Torikami offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the delicate art of yakitori. Our expert chefs will prepare each skewer from the finest chicken cuts, grilled perfectly over Binchotan charcoal. Every dish is crafted with care to balance the natural flavors of the chicken and the subtle Japanese seasonings.

Visit Torikami Singapore to discover the distinct flavor of Omakase Yakitori, where every dish is an unforgettable work of art. Book your table today and indulge in a premium Japanese dining experience that will leave you wanting more.

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