Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsTokonameUnagi Recipe

Unagi Recipe

Inspired by Tokoname
Time45m
Serves4

freshwater eel

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Ingredients

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Eel Preparation

Garnish and Serving

Method

Eel Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Eel

    Start by cleaning the freshwater eel. Remove the skin carefully, and fillet the eel into two long pieces. Rinse the fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

  2. 2

    Make the Glaze

    In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reduces slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

  3. 3

    Grill the Eel

    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the eel fillets with the glaze and place them on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, basting with more glaze, until the eel is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

Garnish and Serving

  1. 4

    Prepare the Rice

    While the eel is grilling, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

  2. 5

    Assemble the Dish

    On a serving plate, place a generous scoop of cooked rice. Top with the grilled eel fillets. Garnish with chopped green onions, shiso leaves, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

  3. 6

    Serve

    Serve the unagi immediately while warm, with extra glaze on the side if desired.

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