What’s the Difference Between Tangsuyuk and Kkanpunggi?

When it comes to Korean-style Chinese food, two of the most popular and debated dishes are undoubtedly Tangsuyuk and Kkanpunggi . Although both are beloved deep-fried meat dishes, they differ in flavor, preparation, and even cultural background. Let’s break down what sets these two iconic dishes apart. 1. Tangsuyuk: The Sweet and Sour Classic Tangsuyuk (탕수육) is the Korean interpretation of the Chinese "Tang Cu Rou" (糖醋肉), meaning sweet and sour pork. The Korean version typically uses deep-fried pork or beef coated in potato or sweet potato starch, served with a glossy sweet and sour sauce made from vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and fruit juices. One interesting cultural quirk is how Koreans often debate whether to pour the sauce over the meat or dip the meat in sauce. It’s so common it even has terms: “pour-over” group ( 부먹 ) vs. “dip-in” group ( 찍먹 ). 2. Kkanpunggi: Spicy, Garlicky, and Stir-Fried Kkanpunggi (깐풍기) is a Korean-Chinese adaptation of the C...