Buldak, or Spicy Korean Fire Chicken, is a popular dish known for its intense heat and bold flavors. This dish features marinated chicken cooked in a spicy sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste) and other flavorful ingredients. It’s perfect for those who love spicy food!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar (brown sugar or granulated)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Timing

Making Spicy Korean Fire Chicken (Buldak) takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and rice vinegar. Mix well to form a thick marinade.
2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté Onions and Peppers: Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
2. Serve: Serve hot with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or over noodles. Enjoy the spicy kick!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Spicy Korean Fire Chicken (Buldak) (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	28g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	12g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of gochujang and gochugaru to suit your heat preference. You can also add more sugar to balance the spice.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Protein Variations: This recipe works well with other proteins, such as shrimp or tofu.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Buldak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Spicy Korean Fire Chicken (Buldak) is a fiery and flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings for something spicy and delicious. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Is Buldak very spicy?

Buldak is known for its heat, but you can adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of gochujang and gochugaru used.