Fig Galbi: Sweet & Spicy Chicken Stir-fry with Figs
Fig Galbi: A Unique Twist on Spicy Chicken Stir-fry with Figs
Experience a delightful fusion of savory and sweet with this Fig Galbi recipe! The dried figs add a subtle, natural sweetness that beautifully complements the spicy gochujang-based sauce, creating a truly irresistible flavor profile. This dish is perfect for when you want to elevate your usual chicken stir-fry with an unexpected and sophisticated touch. The mild sweetness is never overpowering but rather enhances the overall deliciousness.
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (approx. 750g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 10 dried figs
- 1 cup warm water (for soaking figs)
- 1 tsp sugar (for soaking figs)
- 5 perilla leaves (optional, for added aroma)
- 5 leaves of fresh lettuce or other greens (for serving)
- A little water
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for garnish)
Chicken Marinade
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
Stir-fry Sauce
- 4 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 4 Tbsp oligodang (corn syrup) or corn syrup
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (mirin)
- 1.5 tsp ginger powder (or 1 tsp minced fresh ginger)
- A pinch of black pepper
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
Stir-fry Sauce
- 4 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 4 Tbsp oligodang (corn syrup) or corn syrup
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (mirin)
- 1.5 tsp ginger powder (or 1 tsp minced fresh ginger)
- A pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the chicken, the star of this Galbi. Trim excess skin and fat from the chicken pieces. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities, then drain them well in a colander. Place the chicken in a mixing bowl and add the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chopped green onion. Mix everything gently to ensure the marinade coats the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This marinating step is crucial for infusing the chicken with deep, savory flavors.
Step 2
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dried figs and mix the stir-fry sauce. Place the dried figs in a bowl with 1 cup of warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let them soak for about 15-20 minutes, or until they become soft and plump. This process helps to rehydrate the figs and release their natural sweetness, which will enhance the flavor of the Galbi. While the figs are soaking, combine all the ingredients for the stir-fry sauce in a separate bowl: gochujang, oligodang, rice wine, ginger powder, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3
Now, it’s time to bring all the ingredients together for a delicious Fig Galbi. Heat a generous amount of cooking oil (like grapeseed or vegetable oil) in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and stir-fry them for about 5-10 minutes, until they are browned and cooked through. Once the chicken is mostly cooked, add the soaked and drained figs to the pan. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the figs to slightly caramelize and meld their flavor with the chicken. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce, ensuring it coats everything evenly. Continue to stir-fry, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the chicken and figs. This should take a few more minutes. For a more substantial meal, feel free to add other vegetables like onions, mushrooms, or even rice cakes at this stage. Once the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined, your Fig Galbi is ready! Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It’s best enjoyed with fresh lettuce wraps and other accompaniments.
