Dakhanmari: Dongdaemun’s iconic whole chicken soup 🍲

In Seoul’s lively Dongdaemun market district, dakhanmari means “one chicken” and delivers exactly that: a bubbling pot of tender chicken, potatoes, and rice cakes.

This beloved communal soup became a late-night Dongdaemun classic in the 1960s, when market workers wanted an affordable, warming meal. Its signature tangy mustard dipping sauce turns a simple broth into something unforgettable.

Ingredients for authentic dakhanmari 🥘

• 1 small whole chicken, about 1.2 kg, cleaned
• 1 large potato, thickly sliced
• 1 small onion, halved
• 4 garlic cloves and 2 scallions
• 150 g Korean rice cakes, soaked if needed
• 1.8 litres water, salt, and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon Korean mustard, and chopped chives

How to make dakhanmari step by step 👩‍🍳

1. Prep the chicken 🐓

   Rinse the chicken and remove excess fat. Place it in a large stockpot with water, onion, garlic, and scallions.

2. Simmer the broth 🔥

   Bring to a boil, skim any foam, then simmer for 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken is tender.

3. Add potatoes 🥔

   Add potato slices during the final 15 minutes. Season the broth lightly with salt and black pepper.

4. Make the dipping sauce 🍋

   Mix soy sauce, vinegar, Korean mustard, and chives. Adjust with a little broth for a smoother, lighter sauce.

5. Serve family-style ✨

   Move the pot to the table, cut the chicken into pieces, and add rice cakes to the hot broth for 3 to 5 minutes.

6. Finish the bowl 🍜

   Dip each piece of chicken into the sharp sauce, then enjoy with potatoes, rice cakes, and steaming broth.

Health benefits and smart tips 🌿

• Chicken broth provides protein and collagen-rich nourishment in a light, comforting meal.
• Use bone-in chicken for a deeper, more naturally flavorful broth.
• Add noodles after the chicken is eaten to make the most of the remaining soup.

Frequently asked questions ❓

What is the dipping sauce for Korean dakhanmari?

It is a sharp mix of soy sauce, vinegar, Korean mustard, and chives. Some Dongdaemun restaurants add minced garlic or a touch of kimchi brine.

Can I make dakhanmari with chicken pieces?

Yes, use bone-in thighs, drumsticks, or wings. Simmer until tender, usually 25 to 30 minutes.

TAGS: #Dongdaemun, #Dakhanmari, #ChickenCollagen, #KoreanChickenSoup, #KoreanFood