🍗Samgyetang: Korea’s Nourishing Summer Traditions

When summer heat reaches its peak, Koreans turn to a time-honoured tradition: whole chicken soup (Baeksuk) and Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup). These comforting dishes aren’t just delicious — they’re believed to restore energy and cool the body from within, especially during the hottest days of the season, known as “Sambok.”

Long ago, families would escape the heat by heading to cool mountain valleys. With their feet in the stream and a big pot over the fire, they’d simmer a whole chicken until tender, seasoning it simply with salt and eating it like a porridge with rice. By the time the pot was empty, the heat (and fatigue) had melted away. Today, this custom is still very much alive — especially at local valley restaurants where people enjoy this dish on hot summer days. 🥣 Baeksuk: Simple, rich, and healing

Baeksuk is made by boiling a whole chicken with sticky rice, garlic, and minimal seasoning. The natural flavour of the chicken shines through, and the deeply savoury broth stimulates appetite while nourishing the body. Rich in protein, amino acids, and minerals, this soup is especially good for people feeling tired or run down. The name “Baeksuk” literally means “boiled without seasoning,” and though other meats can be used, chicken remains the most popular. Korean chicken used for this dish is typically around 2kg — not too small, not too large — just right for a full-bodied broth.

🧄 Samgyetang: Korea’s Classic Ginseng Chicken Soup

Samgyetang is a beloved Korean summer staple. The combination of tender chicken and healing ginseng creates a dish that’s both hearty and medicinal — perfect for replenishing energy in the sweltering heat.

Surprisingly, this iconic dish doesn’t appear much in historical records. Earlier versions of Samgyetang contained different herbs or even balloon flowers instead of ginseng. But by the 1970s, it had evolved into the form we know today and became a staple across Korea during the summer months. 🌿 A Dish That’s Still Evolving

Today’s Samgyetang comes in many modern variations. You’ll find herbal Samgyetang with added roots like angelica and chestnut, Hong Samgyetang made with red ginseng, and even Seafood Samgyetang featuring abalone and octopus.

For convenience, instant Samgyetang is now available in stores — just heat and eat. And for those who find a whole chicken too much, there’s Bangaetang, which uses just half a chicken but retains all the flavour and comfort. 🌡️ Why Do Koreans Eat Hot Soup on Hot Days?

You might wonder — why eat steaming soup in the middle of summer? It all comes down to an old belief: “fight heat with heat.” Warm broth helps balance the body’s internal temperature and supports the digestive system. The idea is that sweating while eating hot food can actually help you feel cooler afterward — and more refreshed.

Whether you’re enjoying Baeksuk or Samgyetang, this isn’t just a meal — it’s a tradition rooted in health, family, and seasonal balance.

So this summer, if you’re looking for a new wellness ritual or a cultural experience, why not try Korea’s nourishing chicken soups? Whether it’s at a restaurant, in a mountain valley, or from your own kitchen — you’ll be feeding both body and soul. 🧡