Spicy and Rich Dakgaejang Made with Leftover Chicken Soup
Easy Homemade Dakgaejang Recipe
This recipe transforms leftover chicken soup or chicken breast into a nourishing Dakgaejang (Spicy Chicken Soup). The rich chicken broth is enhanced with spicy seasonings and fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Learn how to make this delicious and comforting soup effortlessly at home, minimizing food waste.
Main Ingredients- 1 leftover whole chicken from soup (or chicken breast)
- Chicken broth (from cooking the chicken)
- 1 handful spinach
- 1-2 Cheongyang peppers (or to taste)
- A small amount of napa cabbage
- 1 king oyster mushroom
- 1 large green onion
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (or seasoned soy sauce)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (or seasoned soy sauce)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly wash the spinach, removing any roots. If the spinach leaves are very large, cut them into 2-3 pieces for better integration into the soup. Feel free to use other leafy greens you have on hand.
Step 2
Cut the napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Prepare the king oyster mushroom by slicing it or shredding it. Slice the green onion diagonally. If you don’t have fresh vegetables, adding some chopped aged kimchi can also create a delicious and spicy Dakgaejang.
Step 3
Shred the leftover chicken meat from the bones into manageable pieces. Do not discard the chicken broth used for the soup! This broth is the secret to the deep and rich flavor of your Dakgaejang. Set aside both the shredded chicken and the broth.
Step 4
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with red pepper flakes, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Gently mix to coat the chicken. If using Cheongyang peppers for extra spiciness, finely chop them and add them now, or you can add them later to the broth. Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate better.
Step 5
Pour the prepared chicken broth into a pot and bring it to a boil. Add the marinated chicken and all the prepared vegetables (napa cabbage, mushrooms, green onion, spinach). Cook until the vegetables are tender. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt or more soy sauce if needed. Adding chives or boiled gosari (bracken fern) can make your Dakgaejang even more satisfying.
