Korean street food, or gopchang, is one of the most sought-after food experiences in the world. In Korea, street food is a way of life – it’s not only a snack or a meal, it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for something quick to eat on the go, or an exciting way to experience culture without spending a fortune, street food is the way to go. But what should you try? What is a gimbap, and what is tteokbokki? How can you find it? Here’s your guide to Korea’s street food.
What is Korean Street Food?
Korean street food is often referred to as "gopchang", which translates to “alley street food.” Gopchang literally means "narrow alley”, and it refers to the slim alleys located in some parts of Korea, where street food is served. Street food in Korea is usually found in marketplaces, night markets, traditional markets, or street-side stalls, and is a great way to experience the country’s cuisine in a unique and exciting way. Korean street food is generally quick, cheap, and tasty, making it a great way to sample the country’s cuisine without breaking the bank.
Popular Korean Street Food Dishes
If you’re looking to explore Korean street food, there are a few dishes you should try. One of the most popular dishes is gimbap, a rice roll often filled with meat, fish, or vegetables. It’s often served as a snack or light meal. Another popular dish is tteokbokki, a dish of chewy rice cakes in a sweet and spicy sauce. It’s often served with fish cakes, eggs, and vegetables. Seoul street food also includes dishes such as kimbap, Korean fried chicken, bibimpap, and odeng fish cake soup.
Where to Find Korean Street Food
If you’re looking for the best places to sample Korean street food, the first place to look is at the markets. Korean markets usually offer a wide variety of street food, often at a fraction of the price of regular restaurants. You can also find street food at night markets, especially in bigger cities such as Seoul and Busan. These night markets usually specialize in street food and are open until late.
If you’re looking for something less touristy, you can always find street food vendors on the street. There are many popular street food vendors in Korea, often serving up simple, yet tasty food. Street food in Korea is usually quite affordable, so it’s a great way to save money while experiencing local cuisine.
Tips for Enjoying Korean Street Food Safely
Enjoying Korean street food is an exciting experience, but it’s important to stay safe. Before eating, look carefully at the food and make sure it looks fresh and clean. Street food vendors in Korea often prepare food in advance and store it, so be sure to ask them when it was prepared. Also, try to avoid eating anything that looks uncooked or has been sitting out for a while.
It’s also important to be aware of potential food allergens. Many street food dishes will contain ingredients such as peanuts, shellfish, or eggs, so it’s important to ask the vendor about ingredients if you have any allergies. Finally, make sure to stay hydrated while eating street food, and bring water with you when you go out to sample the local cuisine.
Conclusion
Korean street food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, and it’s easy to see why. From gimbap to tteokbokki, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on the go or a fantastic way to experience culture, street food is the way to go. Just remember to be safe when sampling the local cuisine, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.