Korean Poultry Products You’ll Find in Every Restaurant

Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and delightful textures, and poultry products play a significant role in many traditional dishes. In every Korean restaurant, whether it’s a bustling eatery or an intimate dining space, you'll encounter a variety of chicken and duck dishes that are staples of the cuisine. Here’s a look at some of the most popular Korean poultry products you will find on menus across the country.

1. Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly with Chicken)

While samgyeopsal is primarily known for its grilled pork belly, many restaurants offer delicious chicken variations. Marinated chicken pieces, often seasoned with sesame oil, garlic, and pepper, are grilled at the table alongside fresh vegetables. This interactive dining experience is a must-try!

2. Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-fried Chicken)

Dakgalbi is a popular dish made of chopped chicken stir-fried with gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, and a variety of vegetables, including cabbage and sweet potatoes. It’s often cooked in large quantities on a hot plate, making it a perfect meal for sharing. As a favorite among locals, you’ll find dakgalbi in many Korean restaurants!

3. Yangnyeom Chicken (Fried Chicken)

Yangnyeom chicken is a quintessential Korean dish that has gained global popularity. This fried chicken is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made from gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It’s a delectable combination of crispy texture and bold flavor, often enjoyed with a side of pickled radish. Many restaurants offer it as a main dish or as an appetizer.

4. Jjimdak (Braised Chicken)

Jjimdak is a hearty braised chicken dish cooked with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and glass noodles in a savory soy-based sauce. This comforting dish is known for its rich flavor and is typically served in a large pot, making it perfect for family-style dining. It’s a celebrated dish worth trying in any Korean restaurant!

5. Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang)

Samgyetang is a traditional Korean soup featuring a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, jujubes (Korean dates), and ginseng. Often enjoyed during the hot summer months, this nourishing dish is believed to replenish energy and promote health. Finding samgyetang in a restaurant often indicates a commitment to authentic Korean culinary practices.

6. Hoe-deopbap (Sashimi Rice Bowl with Chicken)

For a contemporary twist on traditional Korean cuisine, many restaurants offer hoe-deopbap, a rice bowl topped with fresh sashimi and marinated chicken, along with an assortment of vegetables. Drizzled with sesame oil and gochujang, this colorful and nutritious dish celebrates the vibrant flavors of Korea.

7. Nakji Bokkeum (Stir-fried Octopus with Chicken)

While octopus is the star of nakji bokkeum, many chefs add pieces of chicken to enhance the dish’s protein content. Stir-fried with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and a medley of vegetables, this spicy and savory dish reflects the versatility of Korean poultry products.

In conclusion, Korean restaurants offer a plethora of delicious poultry options that showcase the depth and variety of Korean cuisine. Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, or savory flavors, there’s a chicken or duck dish waiting for you to discover. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore these delectable offerings during your next visit to a Korean restaurant!