Joanna James
Dongdaemun, a bustling district in Seoul, South Korea, is a haven for food enthusiasts. From traditional Korean fare to innovative takes on street food, Dongdaemun offers a feast for the senses. Delve into 5 must-try dishes that will light up your taste buds and provide an authentic glimpse into Korean cuisine.
A quintessential Korean street food, tteokbokki is a delightful combination of chewy rice cakes simmered in a gochujang (Korean chilli paste) sauce. The sweetness of the rice cakes is beautifully balanced by the fiery spice of the gochujang, creating a truly addictive flavour profile. Tteokbokki is often served with fish cakes (odeng) and boiled eggs, offering a textural and flavour contrast. For those seeking an extra kick, some vendors offer variations with extra chili flakes or cheese. If you're staying at one of the hotels near Dongdaemun such as the Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul, you will have convenient access to street food stalls, so make sure you get a lot of ground covered.
This heartwarming stew is a cornerstone of Korean home cooking, providing a comforting meal after a day of adventure. Creamy tofu takes centre stage in this dish, gently simmered in a rich broth infused with gochujang, doenjang (Korean soybean paste), and an assortment of vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, and zucchini. Jjimjilbang Sundubu Jjigae is traditionally accompanied by a side serving of rice and kimchi, the beloved national dish of fermented cabbage, uniting savoury and spicy flavours in perfect harmony.
This slow-cooked dish is a testament to the art of Korean comfort food. Marinated beef short ribs are simmered for hours in a rich broth infused with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and various aromatics. This long cooking process allows the flavours to meld beautifully, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tender beef infused with a deep, savoury essence. Galbi Jjim is often served with a side of steamed rice and various banchan (small side dishes) like kimchi, seasoned bean sprouts, and pickled vegetables, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
This crispy and flavorful pancake is a perfect showcase of Korean seafood. A batter made with flour, eggs, and scallions is generously filled with fresh shrimp, squid, mussels, and other seafood treasures. The pancake is then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and succulent on the inside. Haemul Pajeon is typically served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil, adding a touch of tanginess and depth of flavour.
A versatile Korean staple, mandu can be steamed, fried, or boiled, offering a variety of textures and flavours. The most common fillings include savoury pork and vegetable mixtures, although kimchi and seafood variations can also be found. Dongdaemun boasts numerous street food vendors specialising in mandu, offering a convenient and delicious way to experience this beloved Korean comfort food. Mandu can be enjoyed as a snack, an appetiser, or even a light meal.
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