Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, unique ingredients and healthy dishes. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, South Korea offers a wide variety of traditional dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the top must-try foods in South Korea that you should not miss.
1. Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a Korean rice dish that literally means “mixed rice”. It typically consists of white rice, sautéed vegetables, sliced meat (usually beef), and a fried egg on top, all mixed together with a spicy gochujang sauce. The dish is served in a hot stone bowl called a dolsot, which keeps the rice crispy and hot. Bibimbap is a popular and healthy option in Korean cuisine, as it contains a variety of different vegetables and can be customized to individual preferences.
FUN FACT: Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made of salted and fermented vegetables, typically Napa cabbage and Korean radish. It is so important to Korean cuisine that there is a museum dedicated solely to kimchi in Seoul.
2. Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish that consists of marinated beef, usually cooked on a grill or in a pan. The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings, which gives it a sweet and savory flavor. Bulgogi is often served with rice, lettuce leaves, and other side dishes, such as kimchi or pickled vegetables. It is a staple of Korean barbecue and is widely popular both within and outside of Korea.
3. Jjajangmyeon
Jjajangmyeon is a Korean-Chinese noodle dish that is very popular in Korea. It is made with thick, hand-pulled wheat noodles, covered in a rich and savory black bean sauce (jjajang), usually made with pork or seafood, diced vegetables, and sometimes ground meat. It is often served with a side of tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork), which complements the rich and salty flavor of the jjajangmyeon. Jjajangmyeon is a comfort food that is commonly ordered for delivery, and it has become a beloved dish in Korean cuisine.
4. Kimchi
This is a staple side dish in Korean cuisine and is made from fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radish, combined with a spicy chili paste, garlic, and other seasonings. Kimchi is not only tasty but also healthy due to its high content of vitamins, fiber, and probiotics. It is often eaten as a side dish with rice or used as an ingredient in soups, stews, and stir-fried dishes. Kimchi is also an important part of Korean culture and is believed to have originated more than 1,000 years ago.
5. Samgyeopsal
This is a popular Korean dish that consists of thick slices of pork belly that are grilled over charcoal or a gas stove at the table. The meat is usually seasoned with salt or soy sauce and then wrapped in lettuce leaves along with garlic, onions, and other vegetables. Samgyeopsal is a social dish that is often enjoyed with friends and family in Korean barbecue restaurants, and it is considered to be one of the most delicious and addictive Korean foods.
FUN FACT: South Korea is known for its love of fried chicken, so much so that they have a special term for it: “chimaek,” which is a combination of the Korean words for chicken (“chi”) and beer (“maekju”).
6. Galbi
Galbi, also known as Kalbi, is a Korean dish made from marinated beef short ribs that are grilled or broiled. The marinade usually consists of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and other seasonings, and it gives the meat a sweet and savory flavor. Galbi is often served with rice and other side dishes such as kimchi and pickled vegetables. This dish is also a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations in Korea.
7. Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made with stir-fried glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, mixed with vegetables, meat, and sometimes mushrooms. The noodles are usually cooked with soy sauce and sesame oil, and then mixed with a variety of vegetables like carrots, spinach, mushrooms, and onions, along with beef, pork, or chicken. Sometimes, Japchae is also made with seafood like shrimp or squid. The dish is then garnished with sesame seeds and served hot or cold as a side dish or main course. Japchae is a well-loved dish in Korea and is also popular in other countries.
8. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular street food in Korea made from rice cakes, fish cakes, and a spicy sauce made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste). The rice cakes are chewy and soft, while the fish cakes add a different texture to the dish. Other ingredients like onions, scallions, and cabbage are also added to enhance the flavor of the dish. Tteokbokki is a common snack or meal in Korea, and is often enjoyed with a side of fried or boiled eggs. It is a spicy and flavorful dish that is loved by many Koreans and visitors alike.
FUN FACT: Korean royal cuisine, known as “hansik,” has a long and rich history dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The cuisine was heavily influenced by Confucianism, which emphasized the importance of moderation and balance in food. As a result, hansik is characterized by its emphasis on simple and natural flavors, and the use of seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients.
9. Haemul Pajeon
Haemul Pajeon is a savory pancake made with a batter of wheat flour, rice flour, eggs, and scallions. The dish originated in the coastal regions of Korea, where it was traditionally served as a snack with alcohol. The pancake is often filled with seafood, such as squid, shrimp, and clams, but can also include vegetables like onion, zucchini, and peppers. The pancake is fried until crispy on the outside and served hot with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes. Haemul Pajeon is a popular comfort food in Korea and can be found in many restaurants and street food stalls.
10. Sundubu jjigae
Sundubu jjigae is a spicy Korean stew made with soft tofu, vegetables, and seafood or meat. The dish is typically served in a hot stone pot, and can be customized with various ingredients such as clams, shrimp, beef, or mushrooms. Sundubu jjigae is known for its spicy and savory flavors, which come from the combination of red pepper flakes, garlic, and soy sauce. The dish is also commonly served with rice and various banchan, or side dishes. Sundubu jjigae is a popular dish in Korea, especially during the colder months, as it is believed to have warming properties and be good for the immune system.
BONUS: Gamjatang
I have to add this one to the list because it is my personal favorite!
Gamjatang, also known as pork bone soup, is a Korean soup that is made from pork spine, vegetables, and seasoning. The name “gamjatang” comes from “gamja,” which means potato in Korean, and “tang,” which means soup. While potatoes are not the main ingredient in the soup, they are often added to give it a slightly sweet taste. Gamjatang is a popular comfort food in Korea, especially during the cold winter months.
To make gamjatang, pork spine is boiled with garlic, green onions, and other vegetables to create a rich broth. The meat is then separated from the bones and served with the soup. Many variations of gamjatang exist, and additional ingredients such as tofu, noodles, or mushrooms can be added to the soup to create different flavors and textures.
Gamjatang is a nutritious dish, as it is high in calcium, collagen, and protein from the pork bones. It is also believed to have health benefits, such as improving digestion and boosting the immune system. Due to its popularity, gamjatang can be found at many Korean restaurants both in Korea and around the world.
Eating is a big part of Korean culture, and trying the local dishes is a great way to experience the country’s rich culinary heritage. It’s also a great way to make new friends, as sharing a meal is an important part of Korean culture. So, be sure to try as many of these traditional dishes as possible, and enjoy the taste of Korean cuisine.
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