Kushikatsu (Fried skewers)

What's Kushikatsu?

Kushikatsu, or skewered and deep-fried foods, is a popular dish originating from Osaka, Japan. Known for its delicious crunch and versatility, kushikatsu consists of bite-sized pieces of meat, seafood, vegetables, and even unexpected ingredients like cheese or quail eggs, all skewered, battered, and fried until golden. This dish is especially popular in Osaka’s Shinsekai district, where numerous kushikatsu shops line the streets.

Types of Kushikatsu

The variety of kushikatsu ingredients is vast, and each skewer offers a different taste and texture experience.

1. Meat Kushikatsu:
Classic meat options include pork and beef, both tender and juicy when deep-fried. Pork kushikatsu is especially common, often prepared as a slice or small cube and dipped in the flavorful batter before frying. Chicken skewers and even minced meat patties (similar to meatballs) are also popular variations.

2. Seafood Kushikatsu:
For seafood lovers, shrimp, squid, and scallops are popular choices. Shrimp kushikatsu, with its sweet and juicy interior, is especially popular. Other seafood options may include fish fillets, which are light and flaky inside, contrasting well with the crispy exterior.

3. Vegetable Kushikatsu:
A wide variety of vegetables can be enjoyed as kushikatsu, including Onion, Asparagas, Eggplant, and Potatos. It is eatable even though people who are vegetarian or others.

4. Other Unique Kushikatsu:
Many kushikatsu shops get creative with unique ingredients, such as quail eggs, cheese, and even mochi (rice cake). Cheese kushikatsu, with its melty interior, is popular among those who love rich, savory flavors. Quail egg kushikatsu provides a delicate, slightly creamy bite, and mochi is a chewy, fun texture.

5. Seasonal and Specialty Skewers:
Some kushikatsu shops offer seasonal or regional specialties, which might include unique vegetables or local seafood to highlight the season's best offerings.

Flavor of Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu is known for its crispy texture and the harmonious balance between the fried batter and the ingredient inside. The batter is typically made from flour, eggs, and panko (Japanese bread crumbs), creating a light yet crunchy coating. Inside, each skewer retains its distinct flavor, whether it’s the savory juiciness of pork, the mild sweetness of onion, or the creamy richness of cheese.

A key part of the kushikatsu experience is the dipping sauce, a thick and slightly sweet Worcestershire-style sauce that complements the savory taste of the skewers. At kushikatsu restaurants, a communal pot of sauce is usually placed on each table, where diners dip their skewers. However, there’s a famous rule: no double-dipping! This tradition helps keep the sauce hygienic, as it’s shared among all guests. Some restaurants also offer salt, miso-based sauces, or even mustard for additional flavor options.

Pricing of Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu is generally affordable, with individual skewers typically priced around 100 to 200 yen (about $1 to $2 USD) at casual restaurants or food stalls. This makes it easy for diners to try a variety of skewers without breaking the bank. At more specialized kushikatsu restaurants, where premium ingredients or creative varieties are offered, prices may range from 200 to 500 yen ($2 to $5 USD) per skewer.

For those seeking a higher-end experience, kushikatsu tasting menus or courses, with multiple skewers served one by one, can cost from 2,000 to 5,000 yen ($20 to $50 USD) or more, depending on the ingredients and restaurant ambiance. These set menus are popular for special occasions or with tourists wanting to try a curated selection of kushikatsu.

Kushikatsu is not just a meal but an experience, offering the fun of picking different skewers and the communal joy of sharing sauce and conversation. It’s an Osaka specialty that appeals to all ages, from locals to tourists, who delight in the variety and relaxed atmosphere of kushikatsu dining.