Spicy Korean Buldak (Fire Chicken) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs of chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
  • 1/2 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup of Korean hot pepper paste (gochujang)
  • 1/4 cup of Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru)
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of honey
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 4 green onions, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Combine the soy sauce, hot pepper paste, hot pepper flakes, sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Stir well to form the marinade.
  2. Add the chicken to the marinade. Mix well to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the marinade has thickened.
  5. Gradually add water to the skillet, stirring well to mix with the marinade. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced and thickened.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
  7. Serve warm.

Tools for making

  • Skillet - A large skillet or frying pan will be needed to cook the chicken and sauce.
  • Bowl - A mixing bowl is required to combine the marinade ingredients.
  • Spatula - A spatula will be useful for stirring and flipping the chicken while cooking.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Knife - A knife is required to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board will provide a stable surface for cutting the chicken.
  • Grater - A grater is needed to grate the ginger.

Recipe variations

  • Use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
  • Replace chicken with shrimp or beef for a different protein option.
  • Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or onions for added crunch and flavor.
  • Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or reducing the amount of hot pepper paste and flakes.
  • Experiment with different types of hot pepper paste or hot sauce to vary the flavor profile.
  • Add crushed peanuts or cashews for an extra layer of texture.
  • Include pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Try using different types of oil like avocado oil or peanut oil for a unique taste.
  • Garnish with cilantro or basil for a fresh herbal note.
  • Serve the buldak over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Recipe overview

Buldak, also known as Korean Fire Chicken, is a popular dish that's known for its intense heat. This recipe will guide you through the process of making this spicy, sweet, and incredibly flavorful dish at home. You'll be marinating chicken in a homemade sauce made with Korean hot pepper paste and flakes, sugar, honey, and a mix of other ingredients that create an irresistible balance of flavors. The chicken is then cooked until it's tender and the sauce thickens into a glaze that coats each piece. Finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions, this Buldak is perfect for those who love a good kick in their food. Expect a deliciously spicy dish that will leave you craving for more!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken? Absolutely! While the traditional buldak recipe uses chicken, you can substitute it with other proteins such as beef, pork, or even tofu.
  2. Is gochujang necessary for this recipe? Yes, gochujang is a key ingredient in buldak as it provides the signature spicy and savory flavor. It may be difficult to replicate the unique taste without it, but you can try using a combination of hot sauce and miso paste as a substitute.
  3. Can I adjust the spiciness level? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of hot pepper paste (gochujang) and hot pepper flakes (gochugaru) in the recipe. Adjust the quantities according to your preference.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply follow the remaining steps. This can be a time-saving option for busy days.
  5. What can I serve with buldak? Buldak is commonly served with steamed rice or noodles. You can also pair it with a side of kimchi, pickled radishes, or a fresh salad to balance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - A large skillet for cooking the chicken and reducing the sauce.
  • Bowl - A bowl for mixing the marinade ingredients.
  • Spatula - A spatula for stirring and flipping the chicken while cooking.
  • Knife - A knife for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board for preparing the chicken and chopping the green onions.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups for accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Grater - A grater for grating the ginger.
  • Whisk - A whisk for thoroughly combining the marinade ingredients.
  • Serving plate - A serving plate for presenting the cooked Buldak.

Origin stories

Buldak, meaning "fire chicken", is a dish born out of necessity and resilience in South Korea. Its history is rather recent, tracing back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, during the Asian financial crisis. With the economy in shambles, people were looking for cost-effective meals, and chicken, especially the less desirable parts, was much cheaper than beef or pork. Spices, on the other hand, were added to mask the taste of the cheap chicken parts. Thus, Buldak was born, a spicy, sweet, and intensely savory dish that not only provided sustenance but also comfort during hard times. Today, this fiery dish stands as a testament to the resilient spirit of Koreans, and has embraced a beloved place in Korean cuisine, with numerous variations including the popular Buldak Bokkeum Myun also known as the "fire noodle."

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.