What To Know
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Korean fried chicken with gochujang is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of crispy fried chicken with the spicy and savory notes of gochujang.
- Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or simply looking for a new and exciting dish to try, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Korean fried chicken, also known as Chimaek, has taken the world by storm with its crispy exterior, tender interior, and addictive flavors. Gochujang, a spicy Korean chili paste, adds an extra layer of heat and complexity to this beloved dish. In this blog post, we’ll share an easy-to-follow Korean fried chicken recipe that incorporates gochujang, resulting in a tantalizing combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup gochujang
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Simple Steps to Prepare:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and tenderize it.
3. Heat the Oil:
- In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature control.
4. Fry the Chicken:
- Working in batches, carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain and Rest:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the fried chicken to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as gochujang sauce or soy sauce.
Tips for Perfect Korean Fried Chicken with Gochujang:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your dish. Use fresh chicken thighs and high-quality gochujang for the best results.
- Marinate the Chicken Properly: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. Don’t skip this step for optimal flavor and texture.
- Control the Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying.
- Fry the Chicken in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot or deep fryer with chicken pieces. Frying in batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping and ensures even cooking.
Variations and Additions:
- Spicy Gochujang Sauce: For a spicier kick, make a gochujang sauce by combining gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Drizzle over the fried chicken before serving.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the frying mix, such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots, for a more colorful and flavorful dish.
- Experiment with Different Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices to create a unique flavor profile. Try adding paprika, cumin, or chili powder to the marinade.
Healthier Options:
- Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken: For a healthier alternative, try making Korean fried chicken in an air fryer. Simply coat the chicken in the marinade and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Baked Korean Fried Chicken: Another healthier option is to bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.
Summary:
Korean fried chicken with gochujang is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of crispy fried chicken with the spicy and savory notes of gochujang. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or simply looking for a new and exciting dish to try, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the deliciousness of Korean fried chicken with gochujang.
Top Questions Asked
1. What is gochujang?
- Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from fermented red chili peppers, glutinous rice, soybeans, and salt. It has a spicy, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor.
2. Can I use other types of chili paste instead of gochujang?
- Yes, you can use other chili pastes, such as Sriracha or sambal oelek, but the flavor will be different. Gochujang has a unique flavor profile that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
3. Can I make this recipe without frying the chicken?
- Yes, you can bake or air fry the chicken instead of frying it. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
4. How can I make the chicken even spicier?
- To make the chicken spicier, add more gochujang to the marinade or serve it with a spicy gochujang sauce. You can also add other spicy ingredients, such as chili powder or cayenne pepper.
5. What are some good dipping sauces for Korean fried chicken?
- Some popular dipping sauces for Korean fried chicken include gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and ranch dressing. You can also try other sauces, such as honey mustard or sweet and sour sauce.
