Dak Galbi Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dak Galbi is a delicious and spicy Korean stir-fried chicken dish that is packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. This recipe is perfect for those who love a mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors combined with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying, making it great for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The dish is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level or add your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Sesame oil
• Sugar
• Rice wine (mirin or soju)
• Cabbage
• Sweet potato
• Carrot
• Onion
• Scallions
• Perilla leaves (optional)
• Tteok (Korean rice cakes)
• Cooking oil
• Sesame seeds
• Mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Steamed rice (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, sugar, and rice wine. Stir until well blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the cabbage into large pieces, slice the sweet potato and carrot thinly, and cut the onion into thin slices. Slice scallions into long strips and set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan or a Korean barbecue pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of cooking oil, then spread the marinated chicken evenly in the pan. Let it cook for a few minutes without stirring to get a nice sear.
5. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, sweet potato, carrot, and onion to the pan. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavorful sauce.
6. Incorporate the Tteok: Add Korean rice cakes to the pan and stir them in. If they are hard, you can soak them in warm water beforehand to soften them.
7. Simmer and Stir: Lower the heat and continue stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through, and the vegetables are tender.
8. Optional Cheese Topping: If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the Dak Galbi and let it melt before serving.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve hot with steamed rice and perilla leaves if available.

Variations

• Less Spicy Version: Reduce the amount of gochujang and gochugaru or replace them with a milder chili sauce.
• Cheesy Dak Galbi: Add more mozzarella cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Seafood Addition: Include shrimp or squid for a seafood variation.
• Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use a plant-based alternative to soy sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
• Servings: 3-4 people

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

What is Dak Galbi?

Dak Galbi is a Korean stir-fried chicken dish marinated in a spicy and savory gochujang-based sauce, often cooked with vegetables and rice cakes.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and tenderness. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it.

What can I serve with Dak Galbi?

Steamed rice, perilla leaves, kimchi, and a side of pickled radish are great accompaniments.

Is Dak Galbi very spicy?

It can be quite spicy, but you can adjust the heat by reducing the amount of gochugaru and gochujang.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavors and cut down on prep time when cooking.

Do I have to use tteok (Korean rice cakes)?

No, but they add a chewy texture that complements the dish well. You can substitute with udon noodles if preferred.

Can I cook Dak Galbi in a regular frying pan?

Yes, a non-stick or cast-iron pan works well. Traditionally, it’s cooked on a large griddle or tabletop pan.

How do I make it less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar or omit it entirely if you prefer a more savory flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are great additions to enhance the dish.

How can I make it more authentic?

Using perilla leaves, Korean rice cakes, and cooking it on a tabletop griddle with friends or family enhances the authenticity.

Conclusion

Dak Galbi is a flavorful, spicy, and satisfying dish that brings the essence of Korean cuisine into your home. With its bold marinade, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a social dining experience, Dak Galbi is sure to impress. Try it today and experience the delicious taste of Korean stir-fried chicken!

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