Cheese dak galbi is a beloved Korean stir-fried chicken dish that hails from Chuncheon, but this Japanese-style version gives it a deliciously homey twist with local ingredients and milder seasonings, making it perfect for family meals.
Instead of the traditional gochujang-based spice, this version is seasoned with a mix of miso paste, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and a bit of sugar, creating a deep, savory-sweet flavor that clings beautifully to every bite. If you like a bit of a kick, just sprinkle in some shichimi togarashi for gentle heat and extra aroma.
Our Japanese-style recipe uses tender chicken pieces and a colorful mix of vegetables, including sweet carrots, earthy nira (garlic chives), crunchy cabbage, and a bit of red pepper for balance, all cooked together until everything is coated in that rich sauce.
Then comes the best part: a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese melted right on top, adding a gooey, creamy texture that brings everything together. To get that dreamy cheese pull, cook the mixture in a wide, heavy-bottomed nonstick pan or a cast-iron grill plate over medium heat so the cheese melts slowly and evenly without burning. It’s as fun to eat as it is tasty, especially when served bubbling hot straight from the pan.
For serving, you’ve got lots of delicious options: spoon it over steamed rice to soak up all the sauce, wrap it in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter bite, or toss it with cooked ramen or udon noodles for a cozy, satisfying twist. If you’re making it for kids or anyone who prefers milder flavors, just hold back on the shichimi or add extra cheese to mellow the dish even more.
And don’t let leftovers go to waste; they make an amazing second meal! Try turning them into fried rice by stir-frying everything with leftover rice until crispy and golden, or make a fun quesadilla twist by tucking the chicken and cheese mixture into tortillas and grilling them until golden and melty.
This Japanese-style cheese dak galbi is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the spirit of Korean street food into your home kitchen, but with a gentler Japanese flavor profile that’s both comforting and irresistibly cheesy.
If you enjoy creative fusion dishes full of comfort and flavor, be sure to try our Japanese mapo tofu, Hawaiian-style loco moco, and Japanese tantan ramen, all easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.
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