Writer : Esmee van der Plas
Korean cuisine is famous for its strong flavors and colorful dishes. It has a wide variety of meals that show the country’s rich history and culture. From tasty BBQs to comforting stews and crunchy kimchi, Korean food celebrates taste, tradition, and sharing meals together. Whether you’re an experienced foodie or trying Korean flavors for the first time, this guide will introduce you to some of Korea’s most popular and beloved dishes.
1. Kimchi: The Iconic Korean Side Dish
Kimchi is probably the most famous Korean dish, known for its special flavor and health benefits. This traditional side dish is made by fermenting vegetables, mainly napa cabbage, with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. The result is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour dish that goes well with almost every Korean meal.
Fun Fact: Kimchi has been a staple in Korean cuisine for over 1,000 years and is known for its probiotic properties, which aid digestion and boost the immune system.
2. Korean BBQ: A Social Dining Experience
Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal) is not just a meal; it’s a fun social experience. People grill their own meat, usually pork belly or beef, right at the table. The grilled meat is served with different side dishes, like lettuce leaves, garlic, and ssamjang (a tasty dipping sauce). You also get banchan, which are small side dishes like pickled radishes, seasoned spinach, and bean sprouts.
Tip: For a true Korean BBQ experience, wrap the grilled meat in a lettuce leaf with some ssamjang and banchan. Enjoy the amazing flavors in every bite!
3. Bibimbap: A Colorful Mixed Rice Dish
Bibimbap means “mixed rice,” and that’s exactly what it is. This dish has a base of steamed rice topped with various cooked vegetables like carrots, spinach, and mushrooms, along with a fried egg and usually some meat (like beef or chicken). The last touch is a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste), which gives it a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestion: Mix all the ingredients together before eating to make sure the flavors mix well with the gochujang.
4. Tteokbokki: Spicy Rice Cakes
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made from chewy rice cakes (tteok) cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce made with gochujang, sugar, and soy sauce. This dish is beloved for its satisfying texture and rich, spicy-sweet flavor. Often, it’s served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions.
Pro Tip: Tteokbokki is often enjoyed as a late-night snack and pairs wonderfully with a cold beverage.
5. Jjigae: Hearty Korean Stews
Jjigae refers to a category of Korean stews that are hearty and comforting. One of the most famous jjigae dishes is Kimchi Jjigae, a spicy stew made with kimchi, tofu, pork, and various vegetables. Another popular option is Doenjang Jjigae, a fermented soybean paste stew that features rich, umami flavors and a variety of vegetables and tofu.
Serving Suggestion: Jjigae is best enjoyed hot, often served in a bubbling stone pot, and is a perfect dish for sharing with family and friends.
6. Japchae: Stir-Fried Noodles
Japchae is a savory-sweet dish made from stir-fried glass noodles (dangmyeon) with a mix of vegetables, beef, and sometimes mushrooms. The noodles are cooked with a sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil, giving the dish a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Fun Fact: Japchae is often served during special occasions and celebrations, symbolizing longevity and good fortune.
7. Korean Desserts: Sweet Treats to End the Meal
On a hot summer day in Korea, friends gather at a local café, eagerly anticipating a bowl of Bingsu. As the fluffy shaved ice is topped with sweet red beans, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of condensed milk, laughter fills the air. Each spoonful is a delightful mix of flavors, bringing smiles and joy to everyone. Bingsu isn’t just a
dessert; it’s a refreshing experience that transforms a warm day into a cherished memory.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy Korean desserts as a light and refreshing end to a meal or as a standalone treat during warmer weather.
Korean cuisine is a vibrant and flavorful adventure that offers something for everyone. From the tangy kick of kimchi to the communal joy of Korean BBQ and the comforting warmth of jjigae, each dish tells a story of Korea’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re exploring Korean food for the first time or a seasoned fan, these dishes provide a delightful way to experience the flavors and traditions of Korea. So gather your friends, set the table, and enjoy a delicious Korean feast! Or join our tour and embark on a delicious journey, savoring the unique flavors of Korea alongside fellow food lovers
