The 'Iyeolchiyeol' Philosophy: Fighting Heat with Heat
At the heart of the tradition of eating samgyetang lies the Korean concept of iyeolchiyeol (이열치열), or “fighting heat with heat”. During Korea's notoriously hot and humid summers, the body expends a great deal of energy and loses vital nutrients through sweat. By consuming a hot, restorative food like samgyetang, Koreans believe they can replenish lost energy, stimulate sweating to cool the body down, and regulate their internal temperature. This counterintuitive practice is a core part of Korean seasonal wellness wisdom.
The Sambok Tradition
The practice of eating samgyetang is most famously observed during Sambok (삼복), the three hottest days of the summer, also known as the “dog days”. These days are named Chobok (초복), Jungbok (중복), and Malbok (말복), marking the beginning, middle, and end of the peak summer heat. Restaurants serving samgyetang often see long queues of people lining up to participate in this seasonal ritual, which is considered a traditional way to stay healthy and strong through the oppressive heat. This tradition isn't just about food; it's a shared cultural experience that emphasizes communal well-being and endurance.
A History Rooted in Health
While the modern form of samgyetang with ginseng became popular in the mid-20th century, its roots can be traced back to earlier dishes and a long history of using medicinal ingredients in food. A Joseon-era document notes a similar dish, hwanggyetang, served to royalty to boost energy. Initially, the soup was called gyesamtang, with the chicken (gye) being the focus, but the name was later inverted to samgyetang in the 1960s to highlight the esteemed ginseng (sam). The dish represents centuries of traditional herbal medicine principles applied to everyday sustenance.
The Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Each ingredient in samgyetang is carefully chosen for its nutritional and medicinal properties. The combination creates a powerful restorative meal.
- Ginseng (蔘): Known for boosting energy, speeding up metabolism, and strengthening the immune system.
- Young Chicken (鷄): Provides an easily digestible, high-quality source of protein and amino acids.
- Garlic: Helps with blood circulation and detoxifying the body.
- Jujubes (Red Dates): Said to neutralize toxins and strengthen the digestive system.
- Glutinous Rice: Stuffed inside the chicken, it adds substance and helps thicken the broth as it cooks.
Traditional Samgyetang vs. Baeksuk
| Feature | Samgyetang | Baeksuk |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Medicinal and restorative. | Simple, hearty nourishment. |
| Key Ingredients | Whole young chicken, ginseng, jujubes, garlic, glutinous rice. | Whole chicken with minimal seasoning, often just rice and garlic. |
| Broth Flavor | Herbal and savory, with a distinct ginseng flavor. | Pure, natural chicken flavor. |
| Preparation | Simmered with medicinal herbs for an extended time. | Simply boiled without seasoning. |
| Serving | Often served in a bubbling earthenware pot. | Can be served with dipping sauces and kimchi. |
Modern Interpretations and Availability
While the traditional recipe remains beloved, modern samgyetang has seen numerous creative twists. Restaurants and home cooks now offer variations, including:
- Seafood Samgyetang: Featuring abalone, octopus, or crab for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Herbal Samgyetang: Adding other medicinal roots like astragalus or angelica to enhance its health properties.
- Red Ginseng Samgyetang: Using red ginseng for a richer, deeper broth.
- Convenience Versions: Ready-to-eat packaged samgyetang has become popular, allowing people to enjoy it easily at home.
Conclusion
The tradition of eating samgyetang goes far beyond a simple meal. It is a time-honored practice that combines medicinal beliefs, seasonal wisdom, and a deeply ingrained cultural value of prioritizing health, especially during challenging times like the peak of summer heat. By nourishing the body with this hot, restorative soup, Koreans embrace a holistic approach to wellness. It is this rich combination of history, tradition, and health benefits that explains why Koreans eat samgyetang, solidifying its place as a cherished and iconic dish in Korean culture. For more on the deep cultural roots of Korean cuisine, you can read about the dish's history on the KBS WORLD website.
