Yangnyeom Tongdak, or Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce, is a popular dish known for its crispy exterior and flavorful sauce. Originating from South Korea, this dish has gained international popularity for its unique blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 kg chicken wings or drumsticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Oil for frying
For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation and Serving
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 175°C (350°F).
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and is well combined, about 5 minutes.
Coat the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces with the sweet and spicy sauce until evenly coated.
Serve:
- Transfer the Yangnyeom Tongdak to a serving platter.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Yangnyeom Tongdak
- Crispy Chicken: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the cooking time for the sauce to achieve the desired thickness.
- Garnish: Freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds add extra flavor and visual appeal.
Variations
- Spicier Version: Increase the amount of gochujang or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Garlic Lovers: Double the amount of minced garlic for an extra garlic kick.
- Honey Garlic Twist: Substitute part of the honey with garlic-infused honey for a unique flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving (depending on serving size and cooking method).
Conclusion
Yangnyeom Tongdak is a delightful dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce, making it a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions. With its versatile flavors and straightforward preparation, it's a dish that's sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to suit your taste preferences and discover why this Korean fried chicken has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of so many around the world.
