Best Samgyetang in Seoul: where to eat it and how

What is Samgyetang?

Samgyetang is a small whole chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, jujube and a root of ginseng, simmered until it falls apart and served in a boiling stone pot. Koreans eat it in the hottest days of summer (boknal) on the idea that heat fights heat, but it is on the menu all year.

What does Samgyetang taste like?

Gentle, milky and comforting — not spicy at all. The broth is mild and slightly herbal from the ginseng; the meat is very tender and the rice inside turns into a kind of porridge.

How do you eat Samgyetang?

Season the broth with the salt and pepper on the table — it comes unsalted. Pull the meat off the bones with chopsticks, dip it in salt, and scoop out the rice from inside the chicken into the soup. The small glass of ginseng liquor often served alongside can be drunk or poured into the soup.

Where can I eat Samgyetang in Seoul?

Specialist samgyetang houses, especially around Gyeongbokgung, City Hall and Myeongdong.

Good to know

• ●One bowl is one whole chicken — a full meal for one person.
• ●Salt is on the table for a reason: season gradually.
• ●Ogolgye (black chicken) versions cost more and taste much the same.
• ●Radish and cabbage kimchi are free; ask for refills.