Tsukune japanese chicken meatballs –Today, we’re diving into a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Japan right into your kitchen: Tsukune, or Japanese chicken meatballs. These tender and juicy meatballs are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, Tsukune will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s get started!
Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs)
These delectable meatballs are a popular izakaya food in Japan. Rich in flavor and versatile, Tsukune can be skewered and grilled, or simply pan-fried. The combination of chicken, seasoning, and a hint of sweetness makes them irresistible!

Ingredients for Tsukune
Before we jump into the cooking, let’s gather the ingredients:
- 500g ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions to Make Tsukune
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s follow these simple instructions to whip up our delicious Tsukune:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated ginger, chopped green onions, egg, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients gently with your hands until well blended, being careful not to overmix.
- Once mixed, form small balls with the mixture, approximately the size of a golf ball.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs, cooking until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- For a classic touch, you can skewer the meatballs and grill them, brushing them with a sweet soy glaze if you fancy!
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade Tsukune!
Tsukune are perfect for sharing and pair wonderfully with rice or a side salad. They encapsulate the essence of Japanese home cooking and are sure to become a favorite in your household. Bon appétit!