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
- Season the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- 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
- Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 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
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, gochujang, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
- Simmer: Whisk the ingredients together and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
STEP 4: COAT THE CHICKEN
- 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
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken.
- 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!