Korean Fried Chicken
Crispy chicken, Korean glaze, sesame seeds, green onion
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Fried chicken, while globally ubiquitous, gained unique traction in Korea following the Korean War, influenced by American GIs stationed there. Early versions were simple, but the dish evolved dramatically, incorporating Korean flavors and techniques, especially after the 1980s and 90s with the rise of chicken franchises.
Korean Fried Chicken has become deeply embedded in Korean food culture, representing more than just a meal. It's a social food, often enjoyed during gatherings, sporting events, or as a late-night snack, frequently paired with beer (a combination known as 'chimaek').
Chimaek Culture
The combination of 'chicken' and 'maekju' (beer) is incredibly popular in Korea. Chimaek represents a social tradition, enjoyed amongst friends and family, fostering a sense of community. Delivery services are highly efficient, allowing chimaek to be enjoyed almost anywhere.
Sporting Events
Korean Fried Chicken is a staple during sporting events, both at stadiums and in homes. Sharing a bucket of chicken while cheering on a team is a common practice.
Late-Night Snack
KFC is a popular late-night snack, often ordered after an evening out. The availability and variety of flavors cater to diverse preferences.
Korean Fried Chicken offers a compelling balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, often with a distinct umami depth.
The primary flavor profile stems from the sauce, typically a gochujang (Korean chili paste)-based concoction. This contributes the characteristic spiciness and a fermented sweetness. Garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil provide savory and aromatic elements, while honey, corn syrup, or brown sugar add additional sweetness. Some variations incorporate fruit purees or powders for extra complexity. The double-frying technique ensures a remarkably crispy crust, which contrasts beautifully with the moist chicken and flavorful sauce.
Double-Frying Technique
Double-frying is crucial for achieving the signature crispy crust. The first fry cooks the chicken through, while the second, at a higher temperature, crisps the skin to perfection. Allow the chicken to cool slightly between frying sessions.
Sauce Consistency
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken evenly but not so thick that it becomes gloppy. Adjust the consistency by adding a little water or chicken broth if needed.
Spice Level Adjustment
The spiciness of the sauce can be adjusted to your preference. Reduce the amount of gochujang for a milder flavor, or add a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili powder) for extra heat.
Cornstarch Coating
Using cornstarch as the primary coating ingredient is key to achieving the incredibly crisp and delicate texture of Korean fried chicken. Some recipes incorporate a small amount of flour for added structure, but cornstarch should be the dominant ingredient.
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