Ainu-inspired Grilled Fish Bites

Ingredients

While the original Dutch Kibbeling is typically deep-fried, our Ainu-inspired Grilled Fish Bites take a healthier approach by grilling the fish instead. Additionally, we have incorporated traditional Ainu spices and herbs to infuse the dish with unique flavors that pay homage to Ainu cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Kibbeling, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) fresh fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 tablespoon miso paste 1 tablespoon miso paste
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon grated garlic 1 teaspoon grated garlic
• 1 teaspoon Ainu pepper (or substitute with black pepper) 1 teaspoon Ainu pepper (or substitute with black pepper)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Ainu dipping sauce, for serving Ainu dipping sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, miso paste, grated ginger, grated garlic, and Ainu pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the fish pieces to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. 5.
   Place the marinated fish pieces on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the fish from the grill and serve hot with Ainu dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Choose a firm white fish such as cod or haddock for the best results. Ensure the fish is fresh and free from any unpleasant odors.
• Ainu pepper — Ainu pepper is a traditional spice used in Ainu cuisine. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with black pepper for a similar flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the marinade.
• Serve the Grilled Fish Bites with a side of steamed Ainu millet for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of Ainu chili flakes to the marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Ainu-inspired Grilled Fish Bites hot as an appetizer or as part of a main course. Garnish with fresh Ainu herbs, such as water parsley or Japanese parsley, for an authentic touch.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Grilled Fish Bites on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs. Serve the Ainu dipping sauce in a small bowl alongside the fish for dipping.