Why Samgyetang Feels Like a Warm Hug
Samgyetang (삼계탕), or Korean ginseng chicken soup, is called a “stamina food” (보양식). Originating from royal cuisine and now beloved across Korea, it’s traditionally eaten during summer’s hottest days—based on the principle “yi yeol chi yeol” (fighting heat with heat) .
Imagine savoring a tender, stuffed chicken in a steaming broth infused with ginseng, garlic, jujube, and sticky rice. It’s comforting, nourishing, and deeply satisfying—perfect after a long day or during seasonal transitions.
Samgyetang Recipe
(4 Servings)
Ingredients:
- 2 small whole chickens (Cornish hens or young poults, ~400g each)
- ½ cup glutinous (sticky) rice, soaked 1–2 hrs
- 2 fresh or dried ginseng roots or 1 whole dried ginseng ()
- 4–6 garlic cloves
- 2–3 dried jujubes (Korean dates)
- Optional: 2–3 chestnuts or ginkgo nuts
- 1 small ginger slice
- 7 cups water or light chicken broth
- Salt, pepper, and chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- Prep chickens: Clean thoroughly; tuck the neck tail inside.
- Stuff: Fill cavity with glutinous rice, 1 garlic clove, ginseng root, and a jujube. Leave room for expansion .
- Bundle: Optionally tie legs to keep stuffing in place.
- Simmer: Place chicken in pot; add water, ginger, remaining garlic, and jujubes. Bring to boil, skimming foam.
- Cook: Reduce heat and simmer 50–60 min until chicken is tender and rice is soft .
- Season & Serve: Remove broth into bowls; serve chicken and broth with salt, pepper, green onions. Offer kimchi (like kkakdugi) on the side.
Health Benefits—Why Samgyetang Nourishes You
- Complete Protein for Muscle & Recovery
Whole chicken provides essential amino acids, supporting muscle maintenance and metabolic health . - Ginseng Revives Energy & Immunity
Korean ginseng helps reduce fatigue, strengthens immune response, and supports stamina—especially in midlife . - Garlic & Ginger for Circulation & Detox
Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, garlic improves circulation. Ginger adds flavor and aids digestion . - Jujube for Mood & Blood Health
Dried date fruits are high in antioxidants, support restful sleep, and promote healthy blood circulation (). - Rice for Sustained Energy
Glutinous rice provides carbohydrates to help sustain blood sugar levels without heaviness . - Hydration & Heat Regulation
Despite being hot, the broth restores body fluids, balances internal heat, and prevents heat fatigue .
Samgyetang & Midlife Health Benefits
- Metabolic support: High protein, ginseng, and aromatics help balance hormones, support insulin sensitivity, and boost fat metabolism—ideal during menopause ().
- Bone & muscle strength: Mill a version with added medicinal herbs or chestnuts to support joint and bone resilience.
- Immune resilience: Warm broth and nutrients strengthen gut integrity and immune response.
- Emotional well-being: Comforting warmth and nutritious factors ease stress, support mood during hormonal transitions.