Popular Poultry Products You’ll Find in Every Korean Restaurant

Korean cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique dishes, with poultry playing a significant role in many traditional and modern recipes. If you're a fan of Korean food or planning to visit a Korean restaurant, you'll undoubtedly encounter a variety of poultry products that offer a delightful culinary experience. Here are some popular poultry products you’ll find in every Korean restaurant:

1. Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)

While not strictly poultry, samgyeopsal is often enjoyed alongside chicken dishes. This grilled pork belly is sliced thin and served with a variety of dipping sauces, making it a staple in many Korean BBQ restaurants. It’s commonly accompanied by side dishes that include poultry products.

2. Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-fried Chicken)

One of the quintessential dishes you must try is dakgalbi. This popular dish features marinated chicken pieces stir-fried with an array of vegetables in a spicy gochujang (red chili paste) sauce. Served sizzling on a hot plate, it’s often enjoyed with rice and can be customized with various ingredients, including cheese and tteok (rice cakes).

3. Yangnyeom Chicken (Korean Fried Chicken)

Korean fried chicken, or yangnyeom chicken, is famous for its crispy exterior and juicy interior. Typically double-fried and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s a beloved snack and goes well with beer. You can find variations, from spicy garlic to honey butter flavors, making it a versatile choice on any menu.

4. Jjim Dak (Braised Chicken)

Jjim dak is a comforting braised chicken dish cooked with potatoes, carrots, and glass noodles in a savory soy sauce mixture. Often enjoyed during gatherings, this hearty dish is a symbol of communal dining in Korea, usually served in a large pot for everyone to share.

5. Gyeran-jjim (Steamed Egg Custard)

This fluffy Korean steamed egg custard is often prepared with bits of vegetables, fish cake, or even shredded chicken. It serves as a delightful side dish in many Korean meals and is loved for its creamy texture and mild flavor.

6. Dakbokkeumtang (Spicy Braised Chicken)

Another popular dish is dakbokkeumtang, which features chicken braised with potatoes, carrots, and spicy gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes). This rich dish combines a perfect blend of heat and flavors, often served with rice, making it a comforting option, especially during colder months.

7. Korean Chicken Soup (Samgyetang)

Samgyetang is a traditional ginseng chicken soup that’s particularly popular during the hot summer months. It features a whole young chicken stuffed with garlic, rice, jujube, and ginseng, simmered to perfection to create a deliciously nourishing broth. It's commonly regarded as a health-boosting delicacy.

8. Chicken Gimbap (Korean Rice Rolls)

Gimbap is Korea's answer to sushi rolls, often filled with a variety of ingredients, including seasoned chicken, vegetables, and rice. Perfect for a quick snack or a full meal, chicken gimbap is a convenient and healthy option found in many restaurants and street food stalls.

9. Tongdak (Whole Fried Chicken)

Tongdak refers to whole fried chicken, marinated and deep-fried to create an incredibly crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Served with various dipping sauces, this dish offers a delightful experience perfect for sharing among friends and family.

Conclusion

Whether you’re indulging in spicy stir-fried chicken or savoring a bowl of comforting ramen with poultry, Korean restaurants offer a treasure trove of poultry products that highlight the diverse and vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine. Exploring these dishes not only introduces you to unique tastes but also immerses you in the rich culinary traditions of Korea. So, next time you dine at a Korean restaurant, be sure to sample these popular poultry options that are sure to delight your palate.