Must-Try Poultry Products That Are Part of Korean Tradition

Korean cuisine is well-known for its bold flavors and diverse ingredients, and poultry plays a significant role in many traditional dishes. If you're looking to explore the heart of Korean culinary traditions, here are some must-try poultry products that you should not miss.

1. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

One of the most iconic dishes featuring poultry in Korea is Samgyetang. This nourishing soup is made with a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, jujubes (dates), garlic, and ginkgo nuts. Traditionally eaten during the hot summer months, it is believed to promote health and vitality. The rich broth is comforting and packed with nutrients, making it a beloved staple in Korean households.

2. Dak Galbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken)

Dak Galbi is a popular dish that showcases marinated chicken stir-fried with a variety of vegetables, including cabbage, sweet potato, and rice cakes. The chicken is typically marinated in a spicy sauce made from gochujang (red chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It's a communal dish, often cooked on a table-top grill and served with lettuce leaves for wrapping, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

3. Korean Fried Chicken (KFC)

Korean fried chicken has gained international fame for its double-frying technique, which results in an incredibly crispy exterior and juicy interior. It's often coated in a variety of sauces such as sweet and spicy, soy garlic, and gochujang. Served with pickled radishes and beer, this dish has become a favorite for social gatherings and late-night snack cravings.

4. Jjimdak (Braised Chicken)

Jjimdak is a savory braised chicken dish that originates from the Andong region of Korea. The chicken is cooked with sweet potatoes, carrots, and glass noodles in a deeply flavored soy sauce-based broth. It's known for its balance of sweetness and umami, often garnished with scallions and sesame seeds, making it a hearty option that’s loved by many.

5. Dakbokkeumtang (Spicy Chicken Stew)

Dakbokkeumtang is a robust chicken stew made with cuts of chicken, potatoes, carrots, and onions, all simmered in a spiced sauce made with gochugaru (red chili flakes) and soy sauce. The dish is often served with steamed rice, and its rich and spicy flavors make it a perfect comfort food during colder months.

6. Yangnyeom Chicken (Seasoned Chicken)

Yangnyeom chicken refers to seasoned fried chicken that is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. This dish can vary widely in flavor and heat level, depending on the recipe, but it often combines elements of garlic, soy sauce, and chili powder. It's a favorite at Korean BBQ restaurants and is frequently enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

7. Chicken Bibimbap

Bibimbap is a mixed rice dish topped with various vegetables, a fried egg, and marinated meat, commonly chicken. The ingredients are typically seasoned separately and arranged beautifully before being mixed together with gochujang before eating. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

Exploring these must-try poultry products is a delicious way to engage with Korean culinary traditions. Whether you’re visiting Korea or trying these dishes at home, each bite brings a taste of history and culture that is uniquely Korean. From hearty soups to crispy snacks, Korean poultry dishes offer something for everyone.