Tori Karaage
Japanese Fried Chicken
Yes, with a tweak: request 'lightly breaded' or 'no breading' if the restaurant can accommodate (unlikely for true karaage, but worth asking). About 14g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Japanese food, so watch the portion.
What it is
Bite-sized pieces of chicken (usually thigh) marinated in ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, then lightly coated and deep-fried until crispy and golden. A popular izakaya snack.
Key ingredients
Chicken thigh, soy sauce (low-sugar), ginger, garlic, cooking oil (for deep-frying), minimal potato starch/flour (for restaurant-style crunch).
How to make it keto
Request 'lightly breaded' or 'no breading' if the restaurant can accommodate (unlikely for true karaage, but worth asking). Assume a minimal coating and account for it. Ask for no sauce or a side of lemon/salt. Avoid any sweet dipping sauces.
Say this to the waiter (Japanese)
鳥から揚げは、衣を薄く、または衣なしで作れますか？タレは不要で、レモンと塩を添えてください。
For Tori Karaage, can it be lightly breaded, or without breading if possible? No sauce, please, just lemon and salt on the side.
Watch out for
The breading (flour, potato starch) is the primary carb source. Marinades may contain mirin/sugar. Dipping sauces are often sweet. Restaurant deep-frying oil quality can vary.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
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