Yakimono (Hannibal)

Yakimono, within the context of the television series Hannibal, refers to a method of preparing food, specifically meat, reminiscent of Japanese grilling techniques, though significantly modified and often incorporating human meat. Dr. Hannibal Lecter, the series' protagonist and a highly skilled chef, uses the term loosely to describe his culinary creations, which are frequently elaborate and artistic presentations of cannibalism.

While drawing inspiration from legitimate yakimono techniques such as grilling or skewering, the Hannibal version heavily emphasizes the aesthetic presentation, the sourcing of unusual (human) ingredients, and the complex flavor profiles achieved through unorthodox methods. The dishes served in the series are not an accurate representation of traditional Japanese cuisine, but rather a macabre and stylized interpretation used to highlight Hannibal's sophistication, artistry, and psychopathy. The process is depicted as requiring meticulous planning, precise execution, and a deep understanding of both culinary and anatomical science. The term, as used in Hannibal, has become shorthand for the character's distinctive blend of refined tastes and extreme moral depravity.