🍗 Dak Galbi — The Sizzling Korean Stir-Fry That Wins Everyone’s Heart

Spicy, sweet, and irresistibly satisfying

If you’ve ever wandered through a lively Korean street filled with sizzling sounds and mouth-watering aromas, chances are you’ve come across Dak Galbi. This beloved Korean stir-fried chicken dish is as fun to eat as it is to cook.

Served on a large round iron pan, Dak Galbi brings together tender pieces of chicken, colourful vegetables, chewy rice cakes (tteok), and a fiery red gochujang (Korean chili paste) sauce. As it sizzles, the sauce caramelises and coats every ingredient in a glossy, spicy sweetness that’s absolutely addictive.

🔥 A Feast of Flavour and Togetherness Part of what makes Dak Galbi so special is how it’s meant to be shared. Everyone gathers around the hot pan, chopsticks in hand, eagerly waiting for that perfect bite. The chicken stays juicy, the veggies retain a slight crunch, and the sauce ties everything together with a savoury kick. In true Korean style, there’s always room to personalise your Dak Galbi. Feeling extra hungry? Add ramyeon (instant noodles) or udon. Craving a bit of indulgence? Toss in some cheese or extra tteok. And just when you think you’re done — don’t forget the bokkeum-bap (fried rice). Mixing rice into the remaining sauce at the end creates a smoky, spicy finale that’s simply unforgettable.

🥕 What You’ll Need (Serves 4)

• 480g Chicken (drumsticks, boneless if preferred)

• 130g Rice cake sticks

• 90g Sweet potato, sliced

• 4 Cabbage leaves

• 60g Carrot

• 12 Cloves of garlic (minced, about 60g)

• ¾ Onion (150g)

• 1 Green onion

• 3 Tbsp Cooking oil

• 4 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)

• 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (chili flakes)

• 1 Tbsp Curry powder

• 2 Tbsp Ganjang (soy sauce)

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

1️⃣ Cut the chicken into bite-sized (5cm) pieces. 2️⃣ Mix gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, curry powder, garlic, and cooking oil to make the sauce. 3️⃣ Slice the sweet potato and carrot into long, thin strips (about 5cm). 4️⃣ Chop the cabbage and onion into thick pieces, and cut the rice cakes to match. 5️⃣ Coat the chicken in the sauce and let it marinate briefly. 6️⃣ Heat oil in a large pan or skillet, then stir-fry the chicken and vegetables together over medium heat. Keep stirring to prevent burning. 7️⃣ When the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, serve hot — ideally with friends, laughter, and maybe a side of makgeolli (Korean rice wine). ❤️ Why Everyone Loves Dak Galbi

Dak Galbi isn’t just a dish — it’s an experience that brings people together. The sizzling sound, the spicy aroma, and the joy of cooking right at the table create a warm, communal atmosphere that feels both exciting and comforting.

It’s the perfect meal for sharing on a chilly Canadian evening —spicy, hearty, and full of flavour. Whether you’re in Seoul or Vancouver, one bite of Dak Galbi brings a taste of Korea’s vibrant food culture straight to your table.