Introduction
Dakgangjung is a popular Korean dish that is made with crispy fried chicken and a sweet and spicy sauce. It is a staple in Korean cuisine and can be found in many Korean restaurants and street food vendors. Dakgangjung is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will show you how to make Dakgangjung at home.
History of Dakgangjung
Dakgangjung has a long history that dates back to the Joseon dynasty in the 19th century. It was originally a food for the royal court, but over time, it became popular among common people. The name “dakgangjung” comes from the Korean words “dak” (chicken) and “gangjung” (crispy coated with sauce). Today, Dakgangjung is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Ingredients
To make Dakgangjung, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup potato starch or cornstarch
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine (mirin)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
Preparation
Before you begin making the Dakgangjung, you will need to prepare the chicken and the sauce. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dredge the chicken in potato starch or cornstarch, shaking off any excess. In a small bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and gochujang. Set aside.
Cooking Instructions
To fry the chicken, heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or a deep fryer to 350°F. Add the chicken in batches and fry for 6-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain the chicken on a wire rack or on a paper towel.
To make the sauce, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the honey-soy sauce mixture. Bring to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Add the fried chicken to the skillet and stir to coat the chicken with the sauce. Cook for another minute or two, or until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Dakgangjung is typically served as a snack or a side dish, but it can also be served as a main course with steamed rice and other Korean side dishes. You can garnish the Dakgangjung with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture. It pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of chilled Korean rice wine (makgeolli).
Conclusion
Dakgangjung is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a snack, a side dish, or a main course, Dakgangjung is a great choice. The crispy fried chicken and the sweet and spicy sauce make a perfect combination of flavors and