Samgyeotang
Seoul, South Korea
Samgyetang is a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic and jujube, then simmered in a clear herbal broth. It arrives bubbling hot in a stone or metal bowl, with tender meat, soft rice and a gentle ginseng aroma rather than a chilli-heavy flavor.
Why locals eat it
The soup is associated with restorative summer eating and the Korean idea of meeting heat with nourishing hot food. Seoul restaurants often specialize in it, and the stuffed bird makes the dish a complete individual meal rather than a light soup course.
Local tip
Let the bowl settle before opening the chicken because the broth is extremely hot. Season gradually with salt, and check whether ginseng or alcohol is used if those ingredients matter to you.
Typically made with
Whole young chicken, Ginseng, Glutinous rice, Garlic, Jujubes, Scallions. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.