Spicy & Sweet Dakbokkeumtang (Korean Braised Chicken) – Foolproof Recipe
How to Make Dakbokkeumtang: Chef Baek Jong-won’s Delicious Recipe Secrets
An incredibly simple yet absolutely foolproof recipe for Dakbokkeumtang! This is Chef Baek’s secret recipe that guarantees deliciousness every time. It’s so good, you won’t believe how easy it is!
Main Ingredients
- Chicken (medium size) 1.6kg
- 1 Onion
- 1 Carrot
- 2 Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes (medium size)
- 2 King Oyster Mushrooms
- 2 Chili Peppers (like Cheongyang, for extra spice)
- 1 Green Onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare your vegetables. Cut the carrot, sweet potato, and potato into large, bite-sized pieces, similar in size to the chicken pieces. Slice the onion and king oyster mushrooms thickly as well. Chop the green onion and chili peppers into large segments or diagonally.
Step 2
This step is crucial for removing any gamey odor and impurities from the chicken. Place the chicken in a pot, add water, and then add a splash of vinegar, mirin (cooking wine), whole black peppercorns, and a bay leaf. Bring it to a boil, let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes once boiling, then drain the chicken and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. This process effectively removes any unpleasant smell from the chicken.
Step 3
Now, let’s start braising the chicken! Place the rinsed chicken back into the pot and add enough water to cover it. Turn the heat to high and add the 3 tablespoons of sugar first. Stir to help the sugar dissolve in the water.
Step 4
Once the chicken starts to cook, add the prepared sweet potatoes, potatoes, carrots, and onions. These vegetables will cook down and infuse the broth with their flavors.
Step 5
When the vegetables and chicken are about halfway cooked, add the heaping tablespoon of minced garlic. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce. Stir well to ensure the garlic is incorporated.
Step 6
Next, pour in the 3/4 paper cup of soy sauce to create the rich, savory base of the Dakbokkeumtang. You can adjust the amount of soy sauce based on the chicken quantity and desired sauce consistency.
Step 7
Add the 2 tablespoons of red pepper flakes (gochugaru) for that signature spicy kick. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more. I’ve used 2 tablespoons for a nicely spiced dish.
Step 8
Finally, add the chopped green onions and chili peppers. Sprinkle in a pinch of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low heat and let it simmer until all the ingredients are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step 9
Once the green onions and chili peppers are tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully, your delicious Dakbokkeumtang is ready! The harmony of the ingredients and the spicy-sweet sauce is truly wonderful.
Step 10
Enjoy this simple yet guaranteed-to-be-delicious Dakbokkeumtang! Bon appétit!
