Joanna James
Foodies around the globe will certainly agree that Korea has a fine selection of goodies that you can relish when it comes to food. From savoury yet succulent street food to delightful desserts, Korean cuisine boasts a unique mix of traditional and modern recipes that will tantalise your tastebuds. Read on to learn about some of the best food items you should not miss here!
One of the oldest yet most loved Korean delicacies, Kimchi embodies the quintessence of Korean food culture. As a condiment that requires fermentation and can be kept preserved for up to 6 months, kimchi is made with ingredients such as cabbage, pumpkin, onion, ginger, scallions, radish and plenty of chilli. There are more than 200 variations of kimchi and the locals enjoy it at least during one meal in a day. It is also added to many of the other dishes such as stews, fried rice, soups and even pancakes to give them a rich and delightful flavour profile. You can enjoy this dish anywhere from hotel establishments like Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro, to upscale restaurants and street food stalls.
Yet another classic and nutritious Korean food, Bibimbap commonly consists of warm rice that is topped with mixed vegetables, a choice of protein - either beef or chicken, gochujang chilli paste and on top of it all, a raw egg yolk. Bibimbap is usually served in a hot stone or metal bowl where diners will first mix the carefully arranged ingredients until they get a bit of everything onto their spoon to enjoy. If you are opting for Seoul vacation packages, make sure that you inform your tour operator that you wish to enjoy traditional Korean food so that you won't miss enjoying this iconic dish.
A traditional yet delightful street food that is loved by Koreans all around the globe is Tteokbokki. It is made from thick slices of boiled rice cake, onions, garlic, a variety of vegetables and plenty of chilli sauce. You can find this dish sold at street food stalls and snack bars all around Korea.
Made by cooking well-marinated beef sirloin with garlic, onions and green pepper in a charcoal burner, Bulgogi is a dish that is renowned for its rich smoky flavour and high protein content. If you fancy a Korean dish that is protein-rich and fun to eat with your friends, Bulgogi is the one you are looking for. Usually served with a side of vegetables, and kimchi. This dish is a must-try during your time in Korea.
A popular stew that is usually made with meat, seafood or vegetables in a spicy broth made with gochujang, soybean paste, fermented miso, or salted fermented shrimp. Generally served as a palate cleanser, jjigae is very much reminiscent of a Western meat stew minus a fragrant array of spices and chilli.
PS: If you happen to visit Seoul, be sure to try budae jjigae, which comes complete with spam, bacon, sausages, as well as ramyeon noodles along with a generous serving of rice cakes mixed with other traditional jjigae ingredients.
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