Dak Gomtang is the ultimate Korean comfort soup—a soul-soothing bowl of clear, rich chicken broth brimming with tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh garnishes. This classic dish feels like a warm hug from the inside out, balancing simplicity, nutrition, and pure home-cooked flavor. Whether you’re seeking a gentle, nourishing meal on a chilly day or looking to impress with a taste of authentic Korean home cooking, Dak Gomtang is the kind of recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Dak Gomtang serves an important, flavorful purpose. This recipe is simplicity at its best—every component works together to create a wonderfully clean broth and a hearty, restorative meal. Don’t be fooled by the humble list; this soup is truly all about quality and comforting tradition.
- Whole Chicken (3–4 pounds): The foundation of the soup, giving depth, flavor, and protein; be sure to cut into pieces for even cooking.
- Water (12 cups): Plenty of water is key to extracting all those glorious flavors and making enough broth for everyone.
- Garlic (6 cloves, peeled): Adds mellow warmth and a gentle, aromatic kick to the broth.
- Onion (1 medium, peeled and halved): Brings sweetness and balance to the soup without overpowering.
- Green Onion Whites (from 2 green onions): Help infuse the stock with a subtle, savory undertone right from the start.
- Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon, plus more to taste): Seasons the broth just right; always taste at the end to adjust.
- Black Pepper (1 teaspoon): For a gentle heat and to round out the flavors of the clear stock.
- Cooked White Rice (for serving): Essential for that signature Dak Gomtang experience; it soaks up the delicious broth.
- Chopped Green Onions (for garnish): Sprinkled on top, they add a fresh pop of color and crunch.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (optional, for garnish): For a nutty aroma and a touch of golden color.
- Soy Sauce or Kimchi (optional, for serving): Serve on the side for a salty, punchy bite or a tangy contrast.
How to Make Dak Gomtang
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics
Start by rinsing the chicken thoroughly under cold running water—this helps remove any bits or impurities, ensuring a clear broth. Trim off any excess fat, which helps keep Dak Gomtang light and delicate. Place the prepared chicken pieces into a large stockpot along with the peeled garlic cloves, halved onion, and the white parts of your green onions. These aromatics lay the groundwork for that signature, pristine flavor.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in all 12 cups of water, covering the chicken and aromatics completely. Bring everything to a lively boil over high heat, then lovingly reduce to a soft simmer. As the soup cooks, take a few moments occasionally to skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the top—this extra step keeps your Dak Gomtang broth beautifully clear and inviting. Let it gently simmer, uncovered, for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 3: Strain and Season
Once your chicken is meltingly tender and your kitchen smells amazing, carefully lift the chicken out of the broth and set it aside to cool slightly. Pour the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another pot or large bowl, discarding all the solids. You’ll be left with an almost see-through, golden broth. Season it generously with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go—this step really brings the flavors home.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
When the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones, and gently shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. This part is oddly meditative, and it helps ensure every spoonful of Dak Gomtang gets a bit of tender chicken in every bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve Dak Gomtang, add a mound of fluffy cooked rice to each bowl, top with generous handfuls of shredded chicken, and ladle that shimmering hot broth all over. Finish with a scattering of chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a little extra color and nutty crunch. For the full traditional experience, set out small bowls of soy sauce or spicy kimchi for each diner to add as they wish.
How to Serve Dak Gomtang
Garnishes
A bowl of Dak Gomtang practically begs for a fresh, verdant finish. Sprinkle over plenty of freshly chopped green onions right before serving—their gentle sharpness brightens up every spoonful. If you like, a pinch of toasted sesame seeds adds warmth and a subtle crunch, making each bite even more satisfying. Purists will enjoy the clean simplicity, but feel free to add a dash of freshly ground pepper at the table for a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
Like all Korean soups, Dak Gomtang loves a few bright, tangy, or crunchy friends on the side. Classic kimchi is an excellent sidekick, cutting through the richness with just the right amount of spice and acidity. You can also offer bite-sized pieces of soy-pickled radish, light cucumber salad, or even a simple pile of seasoned spinach—each adds color and bursts of flavor that keep the meal interesting and lively.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Dak Gomtang in individual stone bowls, or dolsot, which will keep the soup piping hot as everyone eats. Arrange a DIY garnish bar with sliced green onions, thinly sliced chili, toasted sesame seeds, and even a bit of shredded nori for adventurous guests. If you want to go the extra mile, layer the bowls with a little rice on the bottom, chicken in the middle, and broth on top so your guests discover each layer as they dip their spoons. Dak Gomtang is all about cozy, customizable hospitality.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Dak Gomtang cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Store the broth and the shredded chicken separately in airtight containers—this helps maintain the flavor and texture of both. Keep the rice covered in a separate container, too, to prevent it from soaking up all your precious broth.
Freezing
Dak Gomtang freezes beautifully! Pour the strained, seasoned broth into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. The shredded chicken can also be frozen, but for best results, freeze each component separately. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick, wholesome meal anytime a comfort craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, bring the broth to a gentle simmer in a saucepan. Once hot, add in the shredded chicken and let it warm through for just a few minutes. If reheating rice, sprinkle with a little water and microwave until steaming. Combine everything in a bowl as you would with a fresh batch, garnish, and enjoy another round of Dak Gomtang’s soothing flavors.
FAQs
Is Dak Gomtang gluten-free?
Yes, Dak Gomtang is naturally gluten-free, provided you serve it with plain white rice and avoid soy sauce with wheat. Always double-check ingredient labels if you or your guests have dietary restrictions.
Can I use chicken breasts or thighs only?
You certainly can, but a whole chicken (or a mix of light and dark meat) gives the broth maximum flavor and body. If you use just chicken breasts, be aware the soup may not have quite the same richness.
What if I want a richer broth?
For an even heartier Dak Gomtang, add a few chicken feet or extra bones to your pot, or simmer the broth for an extra thirty minutes to develop more intense flavors. Refrigerating the broth overnight and removing the fat layer will concentrate the flavors beautifully.
Can I add noodles or vegetables?
Absolutely! Glass noodles or sliced zucchini are popular in some Korean households and make Dak Gomtang even more filling. Add them in during the last few minutes of simmering so they don’t overcook.
Is it OK to make Dak Gomtang ahead for a party?
It’s perfect for entertaining, since the flavors actually improve overnight. Prep all the components ahead and reheat just before serving—set out the rice, chicken, broth, and toppings buffet-style for a fun, interactive meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for a dish that feels like a cozy embrace, Dak Gomtang is just the ticket. It’s gentle, nourishing, and unmistakably comforting—the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself craving on rainy days and special occasions alike. Give it a try, and let this beloved Korean chicken soup warm your heart and home.
Print
Dak Gomtang Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make Dak Gomtang, a comforting Korean chicken soup that is perfect for any time of the year. This simple yet flavorful dish features tender shredded chicken in a clear, savory broth, served with rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Chicken Broth:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds), cleaned and cut into pieces
- 12 cups water
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 medium onion, peeled and halved
- 2 green onions, white parts only
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Serving and Garnish:
- cooked white rice, for serving
- chopped green onions, for garnish
- toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- soy sauce or kimchi, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken: Thoroughly clean the chicken and trim off excess fat.
- Prepare the broth: In a large stockpot, combine chicken, water, garlic, onion, and green onions. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Shred the chicken: Once chicken is tender, remove, cool, and shred the meat. Strain the broth, season, and serve over rice with shredded chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and serve with soy sauce or kimchi on the side.
Notes
- You can refrigerate the broth overnight and skim off excess fat before reheating.
- For a richer flavor, simmer the broth longer or add chicken feet or bones.
- Add glass noodles or sliced zucchini for a heartier version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (with rice and chicken)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
