| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 25g | 5g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 1g | 25g | 2.5g |
The first time I created the recipe for Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks, I was immediately taken back to the bustling night markets of Seoul. This delectable dish channels the perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and umami, resulting in an explosion of flavors that is both intoxicating and comforting. The crunch of the perfectly fried skin, combined with the tangy, spicy kick from the gochujang sauce, offers a journey through Korean cuisine without even leaving your kitchen.
The Perfect Harmony of Flavors
What makes these Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks really stand out is the balance achieved through the combination of traditional ingredients. The buttermilk marinate tenderizes the chicken, ensuring moist, juicy drumsticks, while the cornstarch and flour coating ensures a beautifully crispy exterior. The sauce, with its careful meld of gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger, coats each drumstick in a glaze that is both sticky and scrumptious.
This dish is exceptionally versatile. Serve it as the star of your meal with a side of kimchi fried rice, or pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad to counterbalance the spice of the chicken. The possibilities are endless. If you love fried chicken, you may also enjoy dishes like Japanese Karaage chicken or even classic Southern fried chicken—it’s fascinating to see how each culture brings its own unique twist to this beloved comfort food.
A Touch of Health Benefits
While fried chicken isn’t always considered the healthiest dish, the Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks bring some surprising benefits. Gochujang, the Korean chili paste, is not just a powerhouse of flavor but also rich in vitamins and probiotics, which can aid in digestion and boost your immune system. Garlic and ginger, renown in many culinary traditions, are celebrated for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Even a sprinkle of sesame seeds can contribute heart-healthy fats and essential minerals to your meal.
What I ultimately love about this recipe is its sheer ability to bring joy and satisfaction. It’s a conversation starter, a centerpiece, and an introduction to Korean flavors that can easily become a household favorite. Whether you are making it for a cozy dinner at home or showcasing it at your next gathering, Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks will undoubtedly impress and delight.
If you haven’t already, check out the recipe and give this dish a try. Your taste buds will thank you for it.
What You’ll Need
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Method
Step One: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step Two: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix together the cornstarch and all-purpose flour. Dredge each marinated drumstick in the cornstarch-flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess coating.
Step Three: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat to approximately 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated drumsticks in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each drumstick for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the fried drumsticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step Four: Make the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce is well blended and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step Five: Coat the Chicken
Once all the drumsticks are fried and drained, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the fried drumsticks and toss to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
Step Six: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the coated drumsticks to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks!
