Korean fried chicken, known for its addictive crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, has taken the culinary world by storm. Originating in Korea, this dish has gained international acclaim, becoming a must-try for food enthusiasts everywhere. Unlike traditional fried chicken, Korean fried chicken is double-fried, resulting in a uniquely crunchy texture that holds up well to various sauces. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, spicy, or savory flavors, there’s a Korean fried chicken variety that will tantalize your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll explore the secrets behind Julias Korean Fried Chicken, an exceptional recipe that combines the best techniques and flavors. From understanding the difference between traditional and Korean fried chicken to learning why it’s often considered a premium dish, you’ll discover everything you need to know to make this delicious meal at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Chicken Drumsticks: 8 pieces
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Cornstarch: 1 cup
Marinade
- Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Minced Garlic: 2 cloves
- Ginger Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Honey: 2 tablespoons
Sauce
- Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): 3 tablespoons
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Honey: 3 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Minced Garlic: 2 cloves
- Orange Marmalade: 2 tablespoons
Garnishes
- Sesame Seeds: For sprinkling
- Chopped Green Onions: For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Clean the Chicken: Rinse the chicken drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures crispier skin.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger paste, rice vinegar, and honey. Mix well.
- Marinate: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This step infuses the chicken with flavor, making it tender and juicy.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Season the Cornstarch: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the cornstarch, mixing it thoroughly.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Dredge each drumstick in the seasoned cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
Cooking
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- First Fry: Carefully add the chicken drumsticks to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 7-8 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let them rest on a wire rack.
- Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken again for 5-6 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy. This double-frying technique ensures a perfectly crunchy exterior.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and orange marmalade.
- Cook the Sauce: Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil maintains a consistent temperature for even frying.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest on a wire rack between frying to drain excess oil and retain crispiness.
Variations
- Honey Chicken Legs: Add more honey for a sweeter variation.
- Orange Marmalade Chicken: Increase orange marmalade for a citrus twist.
- Sweet and Spicy Chicken Leg Quarters: Use chicken leg quarters for a meatier option.
- Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Legs: Adapt the marinade for a slow cooker version, cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Substitutions
- Gochujang Alternatives: Use sriracha or a mix of ketchup and cayenne pepper if gochujang is unavailable.
- Cornstarch Substitute: Potato starch can be used for a similar crispy texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
Julias Korean Fried Chicken is a delightful culinary experience that brings the authentic taste of Korea to your kitchen. With its irresistible crunch and rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe offers a perfect balance of taste and texture. Try it today and discover why Korean fried chicken is beloved worldwide.
Feel free to experiment with flavors and share your variations with us! We invite you to leave a comment below, share this recipe on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking.