Exploring Flavors at Kokoro Oxford: Sweet Chilli Chicken (October 9th, 2024)

After a long day at work, I stopped by Kokoro Oxford on my way home. Conveniently located right in front of the bus stop I often use, it seemed like the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal. With its mix of Japanese and Korean-inspired dishes, I had a feeling I’d be back regularly.

I opted for the Sweet Chilli Chicken. As many Koreans living abroad can relate, I was craving the familiar taste of Korean-style spiciness—a balance of heat and sweetness, much like yangnyeom chicken (Korean spicy, sweet chicken). With the popularity of ‘chibap’ (chicken and rice) in Korea, I was hoping for something that reminded me of home.

At Kokoro, meals like this come served in a bowl with rice and a side dish, and you can choose between plain rice or egg fried rice. I went with the plain rice option. However, the dish I received wasn’t exactly the yangnyeom chicken I had imagined. The flavor leaned more toward a Japanese-style sauce, with a mild spice and a touch of soy sauce saltiness.

While it wasn’t the Korean-style flavor I was craving, the dish was still delicious. The chicken was tender and flavorful, and I enjoyed every bite. I’m looking forward to trying other dishes on the menu next time! 

Location: Oxford, UK

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