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Samgyetang (삼계탕)

 

Authentic Korean Samgyetang made with ginseng, chicken, and jujubes
Samgyetang : 삼계탕 (Ai Photo)

Samgyetang (삼계탕, Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Samgyetang is a nourishing Korean soup made with a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, jujubes, and garlic. Traditionally enjoyed during the hottest summer days, it is believed to replenish energy and restore vitality. This dish beautifully reflects the Korean principle of “iyeolchiyeol” (fighting heat with heat), where warm, nutrient-rich food helps balance the body.

Samgyetang : 삼계탕 (Ai Photo)


Ingredients

  • 1 whole Cornish hen (영계 한 마리)
  • ½ cup glutinous rice (찹쌀 ½컵)

  • 2–3 pieces Korean ginseng root (인삼 2~3뿌리)

  • 4–5 garlic cloves (마늘 4~5쪽)

  • 3 jujubes (Korean dates) (대추 3개)

  • 1 small piece of ginger (생강 작은 조각)

  • 4 cups water (물 4컵)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste (소금, 후추 약간)

  • Green onions for garnish (대파 약간)


Steps

  1. Rinse the chicken thoroughly and remove any leftover organs. Wash the glutinous rice and soak it for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Stuff the chicken with soaked rice, ginseng, garlic, jujubes, and ginger, then tie the legs together with kitchen string.

  3. Place the stuffed chicken in a pot and pour in 4 cups of water (or enough to cover the bird).

  4. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for about 1 hour until the chicken becomes tender.

  5. Skim off any foam or fat that rises to the surface.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.


Tips

  • For a milder flavor, replace ginseng with ginseng tea or omit it altogether.

  • Add chestnuts or ginkgo nuts for a richer texture.

  • To make it gluten-free, ensure the glutinous rice is pure and uncontaminated.

  • Serve with kimchi or salt-and-pepper dipping sauce for extra flavor.


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