Spicy Korean Dak Galbi: Savory Stir-fried Chicken and Vegetables

Spicy Korean Dak Galbi: Savory Stir-fried Chicken and Vegetables

Dak Galbi is a popular Korean dish known for its spicy, savory flavors and vibrant mix of tender chicken and assorted vegetables. This dish is often cooked at the table in front of diners, making it a fun and interactive meal. The spicy marinade melds together with the chicken and vegetables during the stir-frying process, creating a delicious and hearty meal that pairs perfectly with a bowl of steamed rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small sweet potato, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 small carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 small cabbage, chopped
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup rice cakes (tteokbokki), soaked in warm water
• 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Spicy Marinade:

• 4 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the spicy marinade. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is well-blended.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and mix until all the pieces are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 hour.
3. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Lower the heat to medium and add the sweet potato, carrot, cabbage, and onion to the pan. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 7-8 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
6. Drain the soaked rice cakes and add them to the pan, along with the green onions. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the rice cakes are tender and the dish is thoroughly heated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra sesame seeds and green onions if desired, alongside steamed rice.

Enjoy the spicy, savory, and satisfying flavors of this classic Korean Dak Galbi dish!