When visiting Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, you’re in for a culinary adventure. Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a wide variety of dishes. Korean Dishes To Try In Seoul
Traveling to Korea is worth the effort; from the sights, sounds, foods, and even the Seoul luggage storage that makes it easy to navigate the dynamic cultural scene. To truly experience the essence of Korean food, here are eight traditional Korean dishes you have to try when visiting Seoul.
Here are eight traditional Korean dishes to try when visiting Seoul…
#1. Bibimbap
Bibimbap, meaning “mixed rice,” is a delightful, visually appealing dish that’s packed full of veggies. It consists of a bowl of steamed rice topped with an assortment of vegetables, including carrots, bean sprouts, spinach, and mushrooms.
It’s often garnished with a fried egg and thin slices of marinated beef or tofu and is typically served with a spicy gochujang sauce, which you mix into the rice and vegetables.
#2. Samgyeopsal
Samgyeopsal, also known as Korean BBQ, is a popular dish that’s perfect for meat lovers. Thinly sliced pork belly is grilled at the table right in front of you, and you can wrap the cooked meat in lettuce leaves with garlic, kimchi, and other condiments.
The sizzling sound of the meat hitting the grill, the tantalizing aroma, and the interactive nature of the dining experience make samgyeopsal a must-try when you’re in Seoul. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Korean culture and enjoy a delicious meal with friends or family.
#3. Kimchi
No exploration of Korean cuisine would be complete without trying kimchi. Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, most commonly cabbage, radishes, and cucumbers. It’s seasoned with a mixture of chili powder, garlic, ginger, and other spices, giving it a unique spicy and tangy flavor.
Koreans consume kimchi with almost every meal, and it’s an essential part of their cultural identity. Whether eaten on its own, used as a filling in dumplings, or incorporated into stews, kimchi adds a burst of flavor and a touch of heat to any dish.
#4. Jjimdak
Jjimdak is a savory, hearty Korean dish that originated in the city of Andong. It’s a braised chicken dish cooked with various vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, onions, and mushrooms, in a soy-based sauce.
The tender chicken absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering combination. Jjimdak is often served with noodles or rice cakes, adding texture to the dish. This popular comfort food is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
#5. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a beloved street food in Korea and a staple in Korean cuisine. It consists of chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy and slightly sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste).
The dish is often accompanied by fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions. The combination of the soft, toothsome rice cakes and the flavorful sauce creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Tteokbokki is both comforting and addictive, making it a popular choice for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying snack.
#6. Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a popular Korean grilled dish that consists of thinly sliced marinated beef or pork. The meat is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and other seasonings to enhance its flavor. The marinated meat is then grilled to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful slices. Bulgogi is often enjoyed wrapped in lettuce leaves with rice, garlic, and ssamjang (a spicy dipping sauce).
#7. Haemul Pajeon
Seafood lovers will find delight in haemul pajeon, a savory Korean pancake made with a batter of wheat flour, eggs, scallions, and an assortment of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and clams. The pancake is pan-fried until crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft and chewy interior.
Haemul pajeon is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce, adding a tangy, salty element to the dish. It’s a perfect appetizer or a shared dish to enjoy with friends over a lively conversation.
#8. Japchae
Japchae is a classic Korean noodle dish made with glass noodles, also known as sweet potato starch noodles, stir-fried with an array of colorful vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms. The noodles are lightly coated with a soy-based sauce and sesame oil, giving them a glossy appearance and a delightful umami flavor. Japchae is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, and its combination of textures makes it a satisfying and wholesome dish.
Experience the Diverse and Delectable Flavors of Korea
Exploring the vibrant food scene in Seoul is an adventure that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the rich gastronomic heritage of Korea. So, make sure to indulge in these traditional dishes and savor the flavors that make Korean cuisine truly exceptional.
Featured image: Markus Winkler/Pexels
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