Korean Fried Chicken with Gochujang Sauce – RecipeIneed
Imagine yourself sitting in a bustling street food market in Seoul, South Korea, surrounded by the tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken and spicy gochujang sauce. The sound of crispy chicken being fried to perfection fills the air, and you can’t wait to sink your teeth into a piece of this delicious Korean fried chicken.
History and Origins
Korean fried chicken, also known as KFC, has its roots in South Korea and has become a popular dish worldwide. The dish is said to have been inspired by American fried chicken but has evolved into a unique and flavorful version with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Reasons to Make Korean Fried Chicken with Gochujang Sauce
- It’s a delicious and addictive dish that will leave you craving for more.
- The combination of crispy fried chicken and spicy gochujang sauce is a match made in heaven.
- It’s a fun and interactive dish to make, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
What Makes This Dish Different and Unique
Korean fried chicken stands out from other fried chicken dishes due to its double-frying technique, which results in an extra crispy and crunchy texture. The addition of gochujang sauce adds a spicy and savory kick that sets it apart from traditional fried chicken recipes.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings or drumsticks: Provides the main protein for the dish.
- Cornstarch: Helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken.
- Flour: Adds to the crispy texture of the chicken.
- Egg: Binds the flour and cornstarch to the chicken.
- Gochujang: A Korean chili paste that adds heat and flavor to the sauce.
- Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the sauce.
- Rice vinegar: Provides a tangy element to balance the flavors.
- Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
- Garlic and ginger: Aromatic ingredients that enhance the overall flavor profile.
Quantities
- **Chicken wings or drumsticks**: 2 pounds (approximately 900 grams)
- **Cornstarch**: 1/2 cup (approximately 60 grams)
- **Flour**: 1/2 cup (approximately 60 grams)
- **Egg**: 1 large egg
- **Gochujang**: 1/4 cup (approximately 60 grams)
- **Soy sauce**: 2 tablespoons (approximately 30 milliliters)
- **Rice vinegar**: 1 tablespoon (approximately 15 milliliters)
- **Sugar**: 2 tablespoons (approximately 25 grams)**Garlic, minced**: 2-3 cloves (approximately 1-2 tablespoons)
- **Ginger, minced**: 1 teaspoon (approximately 5 grams)
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to wash and pat dry the chicken pieces to remove any excess moisture. This will help the coating adhere better to the chicken during frying.
To make Korean fried chicken with gochujang sauce, you will need the following kitchen tools:
- Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the chicken.
- Mixing bowls: For coating the chicken and making the sauce.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken pieces while frying.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients together.
Temperature and Timing Guide
When frying the chicken, make sure the oil is heated to 350°F to 375°F for optimal results. The chicken should be fried for about 8-10 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and crispy.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Chicken not crispy: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Sauce too thick: Add a splash of water to thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Sauce too spicy: Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your taste preferences.
Instructions
- Coat the chicken: In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dip the chicken pieces in beaten egg, then coat with the flour mixture.
- Fry the chicken: Heat oil in a frying pan or deep fryer. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes per batch.
- Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Toss the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the gochujang sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, then serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Value
A serving of Korean fried chicken with gochujang sauce contains approximately 300 calories, making it a relatively indulgent but satisfying dish.
Tips to Achieve Restaurant Quality Results
To achieve restaurant-quality Korean fried chicken, make sure to double-fry the chicken for extra crispiness and toss it in the gochujang sauce just before serving to maintain its crunchiness.
Alternative Ways to Change the Recipe
If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of gochujang or add honey to balance out the heat. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Korean fried chicken with gochujang sauce is a delicious and unique dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. By following this recipe and incorporating the tips provided, you can recreate the authentic flavors of Korean street food in the comfort of your own home. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering feast of crispy chicken with a spicy kick!
