Satay Kai

Satay Kai: Spicy Grilled Chicken Skewers in the USA

Ever seen those colorful skewers with little chicken cubes you can't quite place in Vietnamese or Thai restaurants? Those are Satay Kai.

What is it?

- Satay Kai is a popular street food in Thailand and often found in Vietnamese and Thai restaurants in the USA.

- It consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or thigh, marinated in a flavorful sauce with lemongrass, lime leaves, ginger, garlic, chilies, and spices.

- The chicken is then skewered and grilled to perfection, resulting in succulent, smoky bites.

Taste and Texture:

- The marinade gives the chicken a delicious, salty-spicy flavor with hints of citrus and herbs.

- The grilling process adds a smoky taste and slightly crispy exterior to the chicken.

- It's typically served with cucumber sticks and a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or fish sauce with lime juice.

Where can you find it?

- Many Vietnamese and Thai restaurants in the USA will have Satay Kai on their menu.

- Look for restaurants with a focus on street food or those offering traditional Thai or Vietnamese dishes.

Tips for trying Satay Kai:

- Don't be afraid of the heat! The chilies in the marinade give it a kick.

- Ask about the dipping sauce options.

- Pair it with other street food like spring rolls or dumplings for a complete meal.

Fun facts:

- "Satay" comes from the Malay and Indonesian words for "to skewer."

- It's a popular street food in Southeast Asia, commonly found in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.