Korean fried chicken, also known as KFC, is a popular dish that has gained immense popularity worldwide in recent years. It is a crispy, juicy, and flavorful alternative to traditional fried chicken that has been enjoyed in Korea for decades. In this article, we will explore the history of Korean fried chicken, the different types of Korean fried chicken, and how to make this delicious dish at home.
The History of Korean Fried Chicken
Fried chicken has been a popular dish in Korea since the 1960s, but the Korean-style fried chicken that we know today is said to have originated in the 1970s. The first Korean fried chicken restaurant, called “Lims Chicken,” opened in 1977 in Seoul, South Korea. The owner of the restaurant, Lim Taek-sang, began experimenting with a double-fry method to create a unique and crispy texture for the chicken. This method involves frying the chicken twice, first at a lower temperature to cook the meat and then at a higher temperature to create a crispy outer layer.
Over the years, Korean fried chicken has evolved to include a variety of sauces and flavors. Today, it is a staple in Korean cuisine and has gained a following in many other countries.
Types of Korean Fried Chicken
There are two main types of Korean fried chicken: plain fried chicken and seasoned fried chicken. Plain fried chicken is typically seasoned with salt and pepper, while seasoned fried chicken is coated in a sauce or seasoning. Some popular sauces and seasonings include:
- Soy garlic: A sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and sugar.
- Spicy: A spicy sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste) and other spices.
- Honey: A sweet and sticky sauce made with honey and other ingredients.
In addition to these sauces and seasonings, Korean fried chicken can also be served with a variety of side dishes, such as pickled radish and coleslaw.
How to Make Korean Fried Chicken at Home
Making Korean fried chicken at home is relatively easy, and it allows you to customize the dish to your liking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings or drumettes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken wings or drumettes to the bowl and coat them evenly with the flour mixture.
- Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and mix until the chicken is coated.
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.
- Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve the chicken plain or coat it in your favorite sauce.
Conclusion
Korean fried chicken is a delicious and flavorful alternative to traditional fried chicken. Its unique texture and variety of sauces and seasonings have made it a popular dish worldwide. Making Korean fried chicken at home is easy and allows you to customize the dish to your liking. So, why not give it a try?
FAQs
- Is Korean fried chicken spicy?
- Not necessarily. While some sauces and seasonings used on Korean fried chicken can be spicy, there are also many non-spicy options available.
- Can I use chicken breast instead of wings or drumettes?
- Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of wings or drumettes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
- What is the double-fry method?
- The double-fry method is a technique used in Korean fried chicken to create a crispy outer layer. The chicken is fried twice, first at a lower temperature to cook the meat and then at a higher temperature to create the crispy texture.
- Can I make Korean fried chicken without a deep fryer?
- Yes, you can make Korean fried chicken without a deep fryer. Simply heat oil in a large pot on the stove and follow the same frying process as you would with a deep fryer.
- What are some common side dishes served with Korean fried chicken?
- Some common side dishes served with Korean fried chicken include pickled radish, coleslaw, and sweet potato fries. However, you can also serve it with other side dishes of your choice.
