(닭갈비)Spicy & Sweet Dakgalbi – Cook Korean Chicken at Home

 

Looking for an authentic Korean spicy dish? Meet Dakgalbi – a flavorful stir-fried chicken that’s bold, fun, and satisfying. Today, I’ll show you how to easily make this popular Korean BBQ dish at home, even outside Korea!

🍗 What is Dakgalbi?

energetic cooking process scene of making a spicy stir-fried chicken dish

 

Dakgalbi is a spicy stir-fried chicken dish made with boneless chicken, vegetables, rice cakes, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). Although the name includes "galbi" (ribs), it uses boneless thigh meat for a juicy bite.

📜 Origin and Characteristics

Dakgalbi originated in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, as a more affordable alternative to beef galbi. It became famous for its hearty portions, spicy flavor, and the fun of cooking and sharing it on a tabletop grill.

🌍 Why Do Foreigners Love It?

• The perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors
• Fun experience of stir-frying at the table
• Combines meat, vegetables, rice cakes – all in one pan
• Add cheese for a delicious fusion twist!

👨‍🍳 Easy Dakgalbi Recipe You Can Make at Home

Cook Korean Chicken at Home

📌 Ingredients (Serves 2)

• Boneless chicken thighs 400g (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup cabbage, 1 sweet potato, 1/2 onion, sliced carrots
• Handful of rice cakes (tteok), 1/2 stalk green onion
• Mozzarella cheese (optional)

🥣 Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp Korean chili flakes
• 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp cooking wine (mirin), a dash of sesame oil

👩‍🍳 How to Cook

1. Marinate the chicken with the sauce for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat oil and stir-fry the marinated chicken first.
3. Add vegetables and rice cakes, and stir-fry over high heat until fully cooked.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and melt it for extra flavor (optional).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh?

Yes, but thigh meat is juicier and more flavorful for this recipe.

2. Can I use potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Sure! Potatoes offer a softer, comforting texture and work great.

3. Is it too spicy for kids?

You can reduce the gochujang or add ketchup to make it milder for children.

4. What cheese works best?

Mozzarella is most commonly used, but cheddar also adds a rich flavor.

✅ Final Thoughts

Dakgalbi isn’t just spicy chicken – it’s a fun, interactive, and tasty way to experience Korean food culture. Perfect for family dinners or spicy food lovers. Try it today and fall in love with Korean heat!