Dak-kkochi is a beloved Korean street food that has captured the taste buds of many with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. This popular snack features skewered chicken that’s grilled to perfection and glazed with a savory-sweet sauce.

Its popularity stems from its delicious taste, convenience, and the social atmosphere it creates at food markets and street stalls in Korea.

Why Is It Popular?

Dak-kkochi is cherished for several reasons. Firstly, its unique flavor profile—a blend of smoky grilled chicken with a tangy, sweet glaze—makes it a crowd-pleaser. The dish is also versatile, allowing for variations in the sauce and seasoning. Moreover, Dak-kkochi is typically served at bustling street food markets, adding to the lively and vibrant street food culture of Korea. It’s a convenient and satisfying option for a quick meal or snack, which also contributes to its widespread appeal.

How to Make Dak-kkochi

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the marinade:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon rice drinks

For the glaze:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon water

Steps:

1.Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice drinks. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight for more flavor.

2.Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and brush with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

3.Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the wooden skewers, leaving some space between each piece.

Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

5.Prepare the Glaze: While the chicken grills, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, sesame oil, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat until the mixture thickens slightly.

6.Glaze the Chicken: Brush the chicken skewers with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling, allowing it to caramelize slightly.

7.Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Lykkers, dak-kkochi represents the ultimate fusion of convenience, flavor, and cultural tradition. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street market in Korea or made at home, its blend of grilled chicken and sweet-savory glaze offers a delectable experience that highlights the vibrant world of Korean street food.