Katana is a contemporary Japanese-inspired steakhouse and sushi bar located in the heart of Chicago, known for its vibrant atmosphere, inventive dishes, and high-quality ingredients. With a unique fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and modern culinary techniques, Katana offers a variety of fresh sushi, sashimi, robata-grilled items, and specialty rolls. Whether you’re in the mood for expertly seared steaks, delicate sushi, or flavorful robata skewers, Katana provides a dining experience that blends sophistication with bold flavors.
Ingredients (for a signature dish: Robata Grilled Yakitori):
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sake
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, honey, grated ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir until the honey or sugar dissolves and the marinade is well-mixed.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
- Prepare the Skewers:
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, placing them close together but not overcrowded.
- Grill the Yakitori:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the leftover marinade until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Serve:
- Remove the yakitori from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish.
- Serve immediately as part of a larger meal with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Katana’s fusion-style dishes reflect the restaurant’s commitment to delivering high-quality, artfully prepared meals that showcase the best of Japanese cuisine with a modern twist.
