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The World of Fried Chicken: A Culinary Journey

World of Chicken

Fried chicken is a dish that has been enjoyed by people worldwide for centuries. From the southern United States to Korea, fried chicken has become a staple in many cultures. This blog post will explore the different types of fried chicken dishes eaten worldwide, including their history, fun facts, and folklore.

Korean Fried Chicken

Korean fried chicken, or KFC, is a popular dish in Korea that has gained popularity worldwide in recent years. The chicken is double-fried, giving it an extra crispy texture, and is often served with a sweet and spicy sauce. Korean fried chicken is often eaten as an appetizer or snack, typically served with pickled radishes and beer.

Fun Fact: In Korea, fried chicken is often enjoyed as a late-night snack, and many restaurants stay open late to cater to this demand.

Japanese Karaage

Karaage is a Japanese style of fried chicken typically marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before being coated in potato starch and fried. This dish is often served with a side of rice and a side of pickled vegetables. Karaage is a popular street food in Japan, and it is also commonly found in bento boxes.

Fun Fact: The word “karaage” means “empty fry,” which refers to the fact that the chicken is fried without a batter coating.

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken is a classic dish that has become a global favorite. Originating from the southern region of the United States, this dish is a staple of southern cuisine and is often served with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, cornbread, and collard greens. The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, giving it a smoky and spicy flavor. The chicken is then coated in flour and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.

One of the most famous variations of Southern Fried Chicken is Nashville Hot Chicken, which features a spicy cayenne pepper paste that is brushed onto the chicken after it is fried, giving it a fiery kick.

Fun Fact: In the southern United States, it is believed that the best-fried chicken is made by using a cast-iron skillet.

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Jerk chicken is a traditional Jamaican dish typically seasoned with spices, including allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. The chicken is then grilled or smoked over pimento wood, which gives it a unique smoky flavor. Jerk chicken is often served with rice and peas, and fried plantains.

Fun Fact: The word “jerk” comes from the Spanish word “charqui,” which means dried meat.

Indian Fried Chicken

Indian fried chicken, or “chicken 65,” is a popular dish in India that is often served as an appetizer or snack. The chicken is typically marinated in a blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, and coriander, before being coated in a batter and fried. Indian fried chicken is often served with a side of raita, a yogurt-based dip.

Fun Fact: The origin of the name “chicken 65” is unclear, but there are many theories. Some believe that it refers to the number of spices used in the dish, while others think it is the 65th item on a menu in a restaurant in Chennai.

Brazilian Fried Chicken

Brazilian fried chicken, or “frango à passarinho,” is a popular dish in Brazil, often served as a bar snack. The chicken is typically marinated in a blend of spices, including garlic and lime juice, before being coated in flour and fried. Brazilian fried chicken is often served with a side of farofa, a toasted cassava flour mixture.

Fun Fact: In Brazil, the best-fried chicken is believed to be made using a pressure cooker, which helps seal the flavor and moisture.

Conclusion

Fried chicken is a dish that has been enjoyed by people worldwide for centuries. From southern fried chicken in the United States to Korean fried chicken in Korea, each culture has its unique take on this classic dish. Whether you prefer smoky and spicy chicken or crispy and golden brown, there is a type of fried chicken for everyone.