Korean food has always been a famous cuisine among various generations, be it young or old, health-conscious eaters or foodies. Ranging from their famous Kimchi (salted and fermented vegetable side dish) to Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly), it is always hard to choose what to eat from their varieties of dishes offered. This article highlights the ever-delicious, Cheese Dak Galbi.
Though Dak Galbi can be commonly found in almost every Korean restaurants or cafes, this dish is often presented with different ingredient options. This includes pork, meat, chicken, pure Kimchi (vegetarian) and many more. It is sometimes known as “Chuncheon Dak Galbi”.
Literally translated from the Korean language, “Dak Galbi” means Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry. Even so, “dak” and “galbi” is referred to “chicken” and “rib” respectively.
Cheese is melted on top of the dish for an extra boost of flavour, to enhance the dining experience as it is usually served to a larger group of people. Cheese Dak Galbi has gained its popularity in Malaysia due to its combination of spicy and savoury flavour.
The Origins of Dak Galbi
Originated from Chuncheon, this dish is a local speciality in the area in Korea. Introduced in the 1960s, Cheese Dak Galbi became one of the most sought-after dishes as it is affordable and often served in a sizable portion. It is usually prepared on special occasions like the start of a new year. Most Koreans like to have this dish during festivals such as New Year’s Day, birthday celebrations, farewell parties, and so on.
Nowadays, Cheese Dak Galbi is so common that it can be eaten anytime and in various countries and not just Korea. This dish is a great dish to share and enjoyed in the middle of the table with friends or family.
Serving Styles of Dak Galbi
Cheese Dak Galbi consists of marinated boneless chicken meat and some vegetables. The chicken is usually marinated in a Gochujang-based sauce. The primary ingredients of the dish include greens like cabbages and scallions, tteok (rice cake), sweet potatoes and onions.
Later, this dish would have optional added ingredients such as cheese, pork and many more, with lettuce as Korean “ssam” which means wrap.
Sometimes a raw egg would be cracked into the sizzling pan for additional protein and flavour. Moreover, this dish is often served with some side dishes known as “banchan”.
Usually, Cheese Dak Galbi is served in a big wok with melted cheese on the top of the dishes and the side of the wok. Whenever the dishes and rice are scooped, it is often mixed with the melted cheese to create a flavourful bite.
For those who do not want to eat this with rice, popcorn chicken bits are added into this dish. Then, it is scooped in the melted cheese for a layer of cheese on the chicken. This method is standard in the Korean community.
Where To Get Cheese Dak Galbi?
Fortunately, Penang and Kuala Lumpur is a foodie paradise, with an uncountable list of excellent eateries and choices. You can find Cheese Dak Galbi in almost every Korean restaurants in Penang and KL.
Generally, it is pretty easy to find Cheese Dak Galbi in Malaysia, as it is available at any Korean restaurant specialising in dak galbi.
Here are some recommendations for you to satisfy your Cheese Dak Galbi cravings:
If you are lazy to head out for food hunting, order using foodpanda instead. Explore the various Korean food options and restaurants and get them delivered right to your doorstep!
