Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken

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Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken, often known as Dakgangjeong, is a popular Korean dish known for its perfectly balanced flavors of sweetness and heat, combined with the crunchiness of fried chicken. This dish is not only a staple in Korean cuisine but also a favorite among those who love a good mix of flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken at home.

Ingredients

FOR THE CHICKEN:

  • 2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Oil for frying

FOR THE SAUCE:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

GARNISH:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Instructions

 

STEP 1: PREPARE THE CHICKEN

  1. Season the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Add the cornstarch and all-purpose flour to the chicken. Toss until the chicken pieces are evenly coated.

STEP 2: FRY THE CHICKEN

  1. Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry in Batches: Fry the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

STEP 3: MAKE THE SAUCE

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, gochujang, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
  2. Simmer: Whisk the ingredients together and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.

STEP 4: COAT THE CHICKEN

  1. Toss with Sauce: Once all the chicken is fried and the sauce is ready, toss the chicken pieces in the sauce until they are well coated.

STEP 5: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken.
  2. Serve: Serve hot as an appetizer or with steamed rice for a main dish.

Tips for Perfect Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken

  • Double Fry: For extra crispy chicken, you can double fry the chicken pieces. Fry once, let them rest for a few minutes, then fry again quickly to crisp up.
  • Adjust Heat: The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less gochujang according to your taste.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of pickled radishes or a light salad to balance the flavors.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken dish that brings a delightful combination of flavors and textures to your table. It’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the sweet heat and the irresistible crunch of fried chicken!

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