In some parts of Japan, yakiton (skewered, grilled pork) is even more popular than grilled chicken. The area of Tokyo where Tadashi grew up was chock-full of these spots. Yakiton joints grill every part of the pig, and we mean every part—cheek, jowl, brain, guts, some 20 different parts. Tadashi’s favorites back in the day included kashira (head), and nodo (throat), which is both crunchy and meaty. Assuming your local supermarket doesn’t carry nodo, we thought to share another kind of yakiton, the iconic and hugely popular ton negima, grilled pork belly and scallion.
Recipe information
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Makes 12 skewers
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Thread the skewers by alternating the pork belly and scallion (about 3 pieces of pork belly and 2 pieces of scallion per skewer) so the pieces cover about 4 inches of skewer. As you work, turn the skewers in a screwing motion to make it easier to pierce the pork and scallion. When the skewers are ready, gently press down on each one with the heel of your hand to compact the meat. Lightly season all sides with salt.
Step 2
Preheat a grill to medium-hot. Grill skewers for 5 to 6 minutes, turning every minute to brown evenly. Be careful not to burn the pork belly. Don’t hesitate to spray flare-ups with water, or shift skewers as you grill, especially if you notice some skewers browning too fast over a hot spot; trade them with skewers grilling over a less hot part. Serve immediately. Accent with sansho.
Recipe notes
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