How to Make Delicious Jjimdak in 7 Easy Steps

Jjimdak, also known as Korean Braised Chicken, is a savory and slightly sweet dish made with chicken, vegetables, and glass noodles simmered in a rich soy-based sauce. Originating from Andong, South Korea, this dish is loved for its deep flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for sharing, Jjimdak is a great choice for a comforting meal with family or friends. Follow these seven steps to create a delicious and authentic Jjimdak at home.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To make flavorful Jjimdak, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken (1 whole, about 1.5 kg): Cut into medium-sized pieces, bone-in for extra flavor.
• Glass Noodles (Dangmyeon) (150g): Sweet potato noodles that soak up the sauce, adding a chewy texture.
• Soy Sauce (1/2 cup): The base of the sauce, providing depth and umami.
• Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• Garlic (5 cloves): Minced, adding a pungent aroma.
• Ginger (1 tbsp): Grated, for warmth and complexity.
• Potato (2 medium): Peeled and cut into large chunks, adding heartiness to the dish.
• Carrot (1 large): Sliced into thick rounds for sweetness and color.
• Onion (1 large): Sliced into wedges, adding natural sweetness.
• Mushrooms (150g): Shiitake or white mushrooms, sliced, for earthiness.
• Spinach (a handful): Adds freshness and color, stirred in at the end.
• Dried Red Chilies (2-3): Optional, for a spicy kick.
• Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): For a nutty aroma and finish.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp): For garnish.
• Green Onions (2 stalks): Chopped, for garnish.
• Water (3 cups): To simmer the chicken and create the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Noodles

Begin by soaking the glass noodles in warm water for about 30 minutes until they soften. Drain and set them aside. Meanwhile, cut the chicken into medium-sized pieces, trimming any excess fat. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water to remove any bone fragments or impurities.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pot or deep skillet, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and 3 cups of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined. This soy-based sauce will give the Jjimdak its rich, savory flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot with the sauce and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the chicken cook for about 15-20 minutes, until it begins to tenderize and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

After the chicken has cooked for 15-20 minutes, add the potato, carrot, onion, and mushrooms to the pot. Stir to ensure the vegetables are coated with the sauce. If you're adding dried red chilies for spice, add them at this stage. Continue to simmer the dish for another 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Add the Noodles and Spinach

Once the chicken and vegetables are tender, add the soaked glass noodles to the pot. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Allow the noodles to cook for 5-7 minutes, absorbing the flavors of the dish. Just before serving, stir in the spinach until it wilts.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Jjimdak to a large serving dish or individual bowls. Drizzle with sesame oil for added richness, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve the Jjimdak hot, accompanied by steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy the savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors of this comforting Korean dish!

Extra Tips to Elevate Your Jjimdak

To make your Jjimdak even more delicious, consider these tips:

• Use a Mix of Soy Sauces: For a more complex flavor, try using a combination of light soy sauce and dark soy sauce.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or bok choy to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.

Enjoy your meal with this hearty and flavorful braised chicken dish. Wishing you a delightful dining experience with delicious food and good company!