Dakgalbi, a popular Korean dish, is known for its spicy and savory flavors. It typically consists of stir-fried marinated chicken with vegetables in a spicy gochujang (Korean chili paste) sauce. This dish is beloved for its vibrant colors and hearty taste, making it a favorite among many Korean food enthusiasts.
Ingredients for Dakgalbi
- 500 grams of boneless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup of sweet potato, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of Korean sweet potato starch noodles (optional)
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Marinade:
- 4 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of rice wine or mirin
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken slices with all the marinade ingredients. Mix well, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Prepare Vegetables and Noodles: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables and noodles. Chop the cabbage, sweet potato, and carrots into thin slices. If using sweet potato starch noodles, soak them in warm water until they soften.
Cooking Process:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it's almost cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped vegetables (cabbage, sweet potato, and carrots) and continue stir-frying for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Optional Step - Adding Noodles:
- If using sweet potato starch noodles, add them to the skillet after the vegetables have softened. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the noodles are translucent and coated with the sauce.
Serve: Transfer the Dakgalbi onto a serving plate or a hot skillet. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil for added glossiness.
Tips for Perfect Dakgalbi
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less gochujang according to your preference.
- Ensure all ingredients are thinly sliced for even cooking.
- Stir-fry on high heat for a delicious charred flavor.
Variations
- Cheese Dakgalbi: Add mozzarella cheese or sliced cheese on top during the final cooking stage for a creamy twist.
- Seafood Dakgalbi: Substitute chicken with seafood like shrimp or squid for a seafood version.
- Vegetarian Dakgalbi: Replace chicken with tofu and add more vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Calorie Information
The calorie content of Dakgalbi can vary depending on portion size and ingredients used. On average, a serving of Dakgalbi ranges from 300 to 500 calories per serving.
Conclusion
Dakgalbi is not just a meal but an experience of bold flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, traditional or with a modern twist, this dish offers a delightful journey into Korean cuisine. Try making Dakgalbi at home to savor its authentic taste and share it with friends and family for a memorable dining experience.
