Spicy Korean Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken wings or drumettes
- 250 ml (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) cornstarch
- 5 ml (1 tsp) salt
- 5 ml (1 tsp) black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 500 ml (2 cups) vegetable oil for frying
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) soy sauce
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) honey
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 g (2 tsp) sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 stalks green onion, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken wings or drumettes under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy coating.
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in this dry mixture. Then dip each piece in the beaten eggs and coat again with the flour mixture. Place coated chicken on a plate.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 175°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature—a crucial step for crispy chicken.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, cooking for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). Use a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain the excess oil.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until it starts to simmer, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once all the chicken is fried, toss the pieces in the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making Spicy Korean Fried Chicken. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a sensory experience that embodies the vibrant taste of Korean cuisine. From its crispy texture to the bold, spicy flavor, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any event. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor every delicious bite of your creation alongside your favorite sides, perhaps with a cold, refreshing drink. Thank you for joining us on this culinary adventure—your journey into the delights of Korean flavors has just begun!
