There is likely to be a number of dishes that come to thoughts while you consider Korean meals. From the staple fried rooster to the web sensation that’s tteokbokki, veggie’s delight bibimbap to the colourful kimchi – there are particular issues that you simply’ll simply have to attempt while you go to Korea.
However true foodies know that the treasures additionally lie past the developments – that it’s the place native traditions and regional customs meet that you simply discover a few of the most scrumptious cuisines round. So, if you wish to know what the most effective issues to eat in Korea are, look no additional. Taking you from the capital Seoul to the island paradise of Jeju, we’ve rounded up a few of our lesser-known favourites – and a few of the good previous classics.
For the Avenue Foodies
Once you’re busy exploring Korea, you won’t have time to take a seat down and bask in one of many superb set meals. So, what do you do? You discover a native vendor and seize one thing tasty to snack on when you’re on the transfer.
- Mandu is Korea’s conventional dumpling. Recognized for his or her versatility – they are often stuffed, successfully, with something you want – it makes them an ideal snack for even the fussiest of palates. Whether or not you want a conventional pork, a spicy kimchi or a contemporary shrimp, there’ll be a steamed or pan-fried mandu to go well with you when you’re on the transfer. Filled with noodles and veg, you’ll be capable of discover countless variations when you discover the nation.
- Fried rooster – now, we all know that is an apparent one, however generally issues are apparent as a result of they’re nice. Whereas some type of fried rooster has been round for hundreds of years, KFC (that’s Korean fried rooster, thanks) is a product of the late 50s and 60s, earlier than taking off absolutely within the 70s with the institution of nationwide restaurant chains. Characterised by a deliciously crispy batter and wealthy sauces filled with Korean flavour, wherever you go in Korea you’ll discover a regional variation to obsess over.
- Although kimbap might need an apparent Japanese counterpart, the Korean specialty is a freshing, versatile snack that firmly deserves investigating on any journey to Korea. Taken from the phrases for seaweed (‘kim’) and rice (‘bap’), it’s precisely what it says on the tin – rice, with some type of meat or fish and greens, wrapped in seaweed. Whereas sushi makes use of uncooked fish, kimbap options cooked or pickled components – normally discovered served with kimchi, it’s a staple of any lunch.
Meals for the soul
There’s nothing nicer than a wealthy dish – and fortunately, Korea does it very, very nicely. Particularly tasty when the climate cools down, these regional dishes make for a superb winter hotter, however they’re scrumptious any time of the yr.
- Gochujang bulgogi – if you happen to’re a fan of spice, then gochujang goes to be an ingredient you’ll need to look out for while you’re in Korea. Sufficient to provide the the chilli style however not sufficient to overpower the dish, gochujang is produced from purple chilli and fermented soybeans. Described in some locations as a cross between sriracha and miso, its flavour makes it a scrumptious praise in bulgogi, marinated beef that’s typically barbequed to make it additional tasty.
- For a correct dose of consolation meals, attempt kimchi jjigae. This stew makes use of the fermented staple to full impact, combining it with fatty pork to create a hearty stew that’s packed filled with tofu, cabbage, and onions. It’s one of the vital widespread dishes you’ll discover, served throughout Korea – so if you happen to miss your likelihood in a single location, you’ll make sure to discover it wherever you go.
- Very like the fried rooster, tteokbokki is one other apparent must-try, and it’s one which’s taken the web by storm in recent times. It’s standard for good purpose although, and the feel mixtures of the chewy rice desserts, eomuk (fishcakes) and spicy purple broth make for a pleasant meal. For an additional whack of flavour, go for a model that’s topped with cheese, which melts into the broth to create the final word cheese pull.
For the carb lovers
If there’s one factor you’ll discover with out even having to attempt in Korea, it’s a very good carb dish. Menus are packed to the rafters with noodles, rice bowls and scrumptious pancakes, so we’ve picked a pair that we predict are a must-try while you subsequent go to.
- Shirking the custom of being served sizzling, milmyeon is a broth filled with wheat noodles that’s greatest served ice – sure, icy – chilly. Topped with plenty of pickled veggies, egg, and meats like beef if you happen to’d prefer it, it’s a hearty dish that’s equally as cooling on a heat day as it’s filling. You’ll discover it achieved particularly nicely in Busan, the town of origin – Style Atlas has the highest 3 milmyeon eating places on the planet situated right here.
- Bibimap – the tried, the true, the staple. This scrumptious rice bowl is crammed with sauteed greens and might be accompanied by meat and a fried egg, but it surely’s additionally an incredible different possibility for veggies and vegans alike. Wherever you go in Korea you’ll discover a bibimbap dish to go well with you, however Seoul is particularly nice for it.
- For these after a barely lighter dinner, pajeon is likely to be for you. Whereas ‘jeon’ as an entire is a kind of pancake or fritter that’s commonplace in Korea, pajeon is a spread which options inexperienced onions (scallions) as the primary ingredient. Whereas by itself, it’s a scrumptious veggie appetizer, you’ll typically discover haemul pajeon, which additionally options seafood like shrimp or squid.
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