Spicy and Sweet! Authentic Dakgalbi Made at Home
The Ultimate Dakgalbi Recipe to Enjoy with Your Family
Perfect for summer cravings or a special occasion, here’s our go-to Dakgalbi recipe! The signature spicy and sweet sauce, reminiscent of Chuncheon style, deeply infuses the chicken and vegetables, creating an unforgettable flavor. Let’s start making delicious Dakgalbi right away!
Main Ingredients- 800g Chicken (thigh or pre-cut for Dakgalbi)
- 400g Cabbage (thickly shredded)
- 1 Onion (thickly shredded)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
Spicy & Sweet Dakgalbi Sauce- 2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to taste)
- 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (or cooking wine)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Tbsp Black Pepper
- 2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to taste)
- 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (or cooking wine)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Tbsp Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare a large mixing bowl. Start by adding 2 tablespoons of Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). This is a key ingredient for the vibrant color and spicy kick of Dakgalbi.
Step 2
Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to bring in the sweetness. Sugar helps to balance the spiciness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Step 3
Next, add 2 tablespoons of Gochujang (Korean chili paste), the heart of Dakgalbi’s rich spiciness and deep flavor.
Step 4
Generously add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Garlic is crucial for its aromatic quality and for removing any gamey smell from the chicken. Don’t be shy with it!
Step 5
Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce to boost the umami. Soy sauce helps to tie all the flavors together harmoniously.
Step 6
Add 2 tablespoons of Mirin (or cooking wine) to help tenderize the chicken and eliminate any unwanted odors. It will further enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
Step 7
Finally, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and rich finish. This completes the perfect balance of flavors.
Step 8
Add 1/2 tablespoon of black pepper (or to your preference) and mix all the sauce ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until you have a thick, well-combined sauce. Ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 9
Place the 800g of prepared chicken into the bowl with the sauce. Use your hands (wearing gloves is recommended for hygiene) to massage the sauce into every piece of chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 10
Cover the bowl tightly or transfer the marinated chicken to an airtight container. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the Dakgalbi much more delicious.
Step 11
Now, it’s time to cook! Preheat a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Ensuring the pan is properly heated is key to preventing the chicken from sticking and achieving a good sear.
Step 12
Add the shredded cabbage and onion to the preheated pan and stir-fry them briefly until they start to soften. Then, add the marinated chicken to the pan along with the sauce. Stir-fry everything together over medium-high heat. Cooking quickly over high heat helps to retain the chicken’s juices, keeping it tender and moist.
Step 13
Continue stir-frying until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are tender and well-integrated with the chicken. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the top for added texture and nutty flavor. Your delicious homemade Dakgalbi is now ready to serve! Enjoy it while it’s hot.
