Explore the summer vibes in South Korea with the refreshing essence of Yonggyebaeksuk chicken stew

Summer is the hottest season of the year, and Koreans believe in consuming 'heat-beating' dishes during the three hottest days known as the 'Tam Phuc' – Beginning, Middle, and End of Summer. Representing this tradition are iconic dishes like Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup) and Yeonggyebaeksuk (Chicken Stew).

The renowned ginseng chicken soup

This dish is undoubtedly familiar to many, consisting of a whole small chicken stuffed with ginseng and sticky rice, simmered with jujubes, garlic, and more. It's a nutritious delight, especially favored during the scorching days of Tam Phuc. Following the Hallyu wave, this dish has gained popularity among foreigners.

Yeonggyebaeksuk (Chicken Stew)

Here, we have the rustic original version of ginseng chicken stew, where instead of stuffing ginseng and rice inside the chicken, it's stewed and served hotpot style with chives and mushrooms. After indulging, a finale awaits – a comforting porridge cooked with the remaining broth. Traditionally, this dish is prepared during communal farming events, serving as a hearty midday break meal. Nowadays, a simplified version caters to individual servings, featuring half a stewed chicken with jujubes and spring onions, paired with rice.

Ginseng chicken stew and basic chicken stew share a similar taste; the only difference lies in Ginseng Chicken Stew. This adapted dish features small chicken, stuffed with ginseng, sticky rice, and various herbs, perfect for a single serving. Easy to prepare at home, it's advertised as a health-boosting and blood-replenishing meal. Ideal for those who enjoy the sweet and savory broth of chicken hotpot, it's savored by dipping vegetables and indulging in rich chicken congee.

In 2014, the three 'Tam Phuc' days fall on 18/7, 28/7, and 7/8. If you're tired of the usual ginseng chicken stew, don't hesitate to try Yeonggyebaeksuk Chicken Hotpot to experience a different flavor while still embracing the 'heat-beating' concept!

According to various sources, a highly-rated chicken restaurant in Jungnang district (Line 7, Sangbong station) is favored by elderly patrons. The broth is simmered with 9 types of herbs. For more information on prices, dishes, and directions, check out the blogger's post via this link: http://blog.naver.com/dkkd0409/130190941930

For the ginseng chicken stew enthusiasts, head to Tosokchon in central Seoul, where each serving costs 15,000 won.

Address: 85-1, Chebu-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.

Phone: 02-737-7444.

Take Subway line 3, head to Gyeongbukgung station, exit 2, and it's a 5-minute walk from there.

By Hanh Dung

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour