The Best South Korean Dishes From Busan
The intensely flavorful dishes from Busan, South Korea are a must-taste for all food-lovers. This coastal city at the southern edge of the Korean peninsula produces delicious seafood, soups, and hotpots that can’t be found anywhere else. Here are some of the tastiest and unique dishes from Busan to look out for.
Mulhoe: Cold Raw Fish Soup
Mulhoe is a cold soup made of sliced raw fish, onions, chives, and other vegetables. It is much lighter than other traditional Korean soup dishes and spices can be added to give it an extra kick. The key to making a tasty mulhoe is to choose a good quality, fresh fish, and to marinate it for long enough so that it can be eaten raw. Mulhoe is a great snack on a hot summer day, as it is refreshing and light.
Milmyeon: Cold Noodles
Milmyeon is an iconic food of Busan. It is similar to noodles but made of wheat flour rather than buckwheat. Wheat flour is boiled with a special broth, which is made of anchovies, beef, vegetables, and spices. The noodles are then served cold with a sauce made with vinegar, garlic, and chili pepper, as well as various vegetables. Milmyeon is a great dish to have after a night out in Busan, as it is a filling and tasty snack.
Hoe Deopbap: Rice With Sliced Raw Fish
Hoe deopbap is a dish where rice is topped with raw fish, usually tuna or mackerel. It is a favorite of Busan locals, as it is very easy to prepare and can be made with fresh ingredients at home. The raw fish is sliced thinly and placed on top of the steamed rice. It is served with a spicy chili sauce, seaweed, and sesame oil. Hoe deopbap offers a unique combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sushi lover.
Jogae Gui: Grilled Shellfish
Jogae gui is one of the most popular dishes from Busan. It is a grilled seafood dish that is usually made with an assortment of shellfish, such as clams, oysters, mussels, and shrimp. The shellfish is brushed with a sauce before being grilled until it is cooked just right. Jogae gui is usually served with dipping sauce and can be eaten as a main dish or a side dish.
Gukgaru: Spicy Fish Stew
Gukgaru is a spicy fish stew that is made with different types of fish, such as cod, whiting, or mackerel. It is also made with a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, radish, and mushrooms. The stew is cooked in a hot and spicy broth, and is usually flavored with garlic, pepper, and various other spices. Gukgaru is a popular dish that can be found in many homes in Busan.
Ttbokki: Rice Cakes & Fish Cake Stew
Ttbokki is a spicy stew made with rice cakes, fish cake, vegetables, and a sweet and spicy red chili sauce. It is a traditional dish that has been around for centuries, and is considered an essential part of the Busan food culture. It is a great dish to have with rice and is usually served with a side of pickled radish. Ttbokki is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its delicious spicy flavors.
Ohyang: Steamed Buns
Ohyang is a type of steamed bun that is made with a mixture of rice, wheat flour, and sweet potato. The buns are made by rolling out the dough and then filling it with meat, vegetables, or a sweet filling such as red bean paste. Ohyang is a popular snack that can be eaten as a meal or a side dish. It is a great way to enjoy the taste of Busan without having to go out for a meal.
Geonmandu: Dumplings
Geonmandu is a type of dumpling that is popular in Busan. They are made with a wrapper of wheat and tapioca starch and filled with pork, beef, chicken, vegetables, or a combination of any of the above. These dumplings are boiled or fried and served with a dipping sauce. Geonmandu are a great snack or side dish to have with a meal.
Kkotgetang: Spicy Crab Soup
Kkotgetang is a spicy crab soup that is a specialty of the Busan region. The soup is made with chunks of crabmeat, vegetables, and a spicy broth that contains red chili pepper, garlic, and soy sauce. This soup is often served with a side of white rice and is a great way to warm up on a cold day.
Dagalgi: Grilled Mackerel
Dagalgi is a traditional dish of Busan that is usually served with cooked onions, garlic, and a spicy sauce. It is a type of grilled mackerel that is marinated with a spicy sauce before being grilled over an open flame. Dagalgi is a great dish to have with a side of rice or kimchi.
Gomtang: beef Bone Soup
Gomtang is a hearty soup that is made with beef bones, vegetables, and a variety of spices. It is a comforting dish that is often eaten for lunch or dinner. Gomtang is a great source of nourishment and can be eaten as a meal or a side dish.
Busan is a city filled with delicious and unique foods that you should definitely take the time to try. From cold seafood soups to grilled mackerel and spicy crab soup, Busan has something to satisfy every taste. Be sure to keep an eye out for these dishes when visiting Busan or ordering takeout. Bon appétit!