Introduction: A Delicious Guide to Traditional Korean Dishes from Seoul
Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is renowned for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. The city has a diverse range of flavors from all over the world, including a wide variety of traditional Korean dishes. The flavors of Seoul are a combination of sweet, spicy, savory, and sour ingredients. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to 10 must-try dishes from Seoul so you can experience the authentic flavors of Korean cuisine.
Korean Barbecue
Korean barbecue is a popular traditional dish in Seoul and all of South Korea. The most common type of barbecue is bulgogi, which is thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce and sugar. The marinated beef is cooked over a charcoal or gas grill and served with lettuce, garlic, kimchi, and other condiments. Many restaurants in Seoul offer unlimited sides and unlimited cuts of meat, making it a popular meal for groups.
Gimbap
Gimbap is a popular traditional Korean dish that consists of seasoned cooked rice, seaweed sheets, and vegetables or other fillings all rolled together and cut into small bite-sized pieces. Gimbap can be served with a variety of fillings such as beef, kimchi, eggs, and other vegetables. It’s a popular snack or light meal and can even be found at convenience stores.
Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a classic Korean dish that consists of a bowl of warm white rice topped with namul (sautéed and seasoned vegetables), gochujang (a spicy, unique Korean chili paste), and a raw or fried egg. The dish is usually served with a side of Korean pepper paste for extra flavor. You can find bibimbap at most Korean restaurants in Seoul.
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular and easy-to-find Korean snack. It consists of chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy, savory gochujang sauce. The dish is usually served with additional toppings such as fish cake, boiled eggs, and scallions. It’s a popular street food in Seoul and can be found at many food vendors and restaurants.
Stir-Fried Glass Noodles
Stir-fried glass noodles, or japchae, is a classic Korean dish made from sweet potato noodles and vegetables. It’s usually seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar for a savory and sweet flavor. The noodles are generally stir-fried with beef, mushrooms, and other vegetables. Japchae is a popular side dish in Seoul and can be found served with many other traditional Korean dishes.
Haemul Pajeon
Haemul pajeon is a savory Korean pancake made with a batter of eggs, wheat flour, and scallions. The pancake is typically filled with a combination of seafood such as squid, shrimp, and crab. It’s usually served with a side of soy sauce for added flavor. Haemul pajeon is a popular snack or appetizer in Seoul and can be found in many restaurants.
Samgyetang
Samgyetang is a popular Korean dish that consists of a whole chicken stuffed with sticky rice and Korean ginseng. The chicken is cooked in a broth of garlic, ginger, and various herbs and spices. It is believed that eating this dish is very nourishing and can help increase energy. Samgyetang is a popular dish from Seoul and can be found in many restaurants throughout the city.
Sundubu Jjigae
Sundubu jjigae is a type of spicy stew made with soft tofu, mushrooms, and seafood. The soup is typically seasoned with garlic, chilli pepper, and gochujang (Korean chilli paste). It’s usually served with a side of steamed rice. It’s a popular dish in Seoul and can be found in many traditional Korean restaurants.
Jajangmyeon
Jajangmyeon is a Chinese-influenced dish that consists of thick noodles topped with a black bean sauce. It’s usually accompanied by vegetables or meat such as pork or beef. The dish is usually served with a side of pickled radish. Jajangmyeon is a popular dish in Seoul and can be found at many Chinese restaurants.
Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional side dish that consists of fermented vegetables such as cabbage, radish, or cucumber. It’s usually seasoned with gochugaru (Korean chilli pepper powder), garlic, ginger, and other spices. It’s a popular side dish in Seoul and can be found in many traditional Korean restaurants.
Conclusion
These 10 must-try dishes from Seoul give a true taste of traditional Korean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a meal to share with a group or just want a snack to take with you while exploring the city, these dishes are sure to please your taste buds and fill your stomach. So don’t forget to add these dishes to your to-eat list when visiting Seoul!