Jeju Island has a long history as a holiday destination and cultural hotspot. Whether you’re visiting for the stunning views, the world-famous museums or just to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Jeju Island is an experience not to be missed. But when travelling to Jeju Island, make sure that you don’t forget the delicious regional specialties. From seafood dishes to local liqueurs, there’s something to suit all tastes on Jeju Island. Read on to find out what delicacies you need to try on your visit.
1. Hallabong
Hallabong is Jeju Island’s most famous fruit. It’s a type of large orange with a slightly flattened shape and a wonderful sweet-and-sour taste that makes it popular with locals and visitors alike. Hallabong oranges can be enjoyed fresh or dried, and can be used to make juice, jams and more. The sweet-and-sour flavour of Hallabong makes this fruit a great accompaniment to salads or savoury dishes.
2. HeukHwaja
HeukHwaja is a traditional Jeju Island dish, usually served as a side dish. It’s made with Jeju Island sea salt, sesame and black-sesame-pepper, all of which are pounded into a paste and then mixed with fried fresh fish and vegetables. The result is a savoury dish that’s bursting with flavour. HeukHwaja can also be served as a soup, and is a great dish to share.
3. Black Pig
Another classic Jeju Island speciality is Black Pig. The meat from this type of pig is renowned for its succulent texture and delicious flavour. Black Pig is usually served grilled, but can also be served in stews, curries and even as a cold delicacy. Unlike pork, the meat from Black Pig is very lean, making it a healthy source of protein.
4. Bossam
Bossam, also known as skin wrap, is a type of Jeju Island wrap made with steamed pork, pickled radish and (optional) garlic. Wrapped in a piece of lettuce, it’s a delicious snack or starter dish. For an extra kick, try adding hot chilli sauce.
5. Abalone Porridge
Abalone Porridge is a popular breakfast dish on Jeju Island. It’s made with steamed abalone and sticky rice gruel, and usually topped with sesame oil, seaweed and soy sauce. Abalone porridge is also served with other ingredients such as pork belly and vegetables.
6. Heongpang
Heongpang is a type of Jeju Island bread, and is usually served warm. It’s made with wheat flour, sugar and raisins, and has a lightly sweet flavour. Heongpang is usually eaten as a side dish, popularly accompanied by sweet-tasting yellow bean paste.
7. Jeju Soju
Jeju Island is famous for its unique take on soju, the national drink of Korea. Jeju soju is made using ripe local citrus fruit, and is distilled to create a clear, smooth liqueur that’s slightly sweet and deliciously refreshing.
8. Mulhoe
Mulhoe is a chilled seafood soup dish that’s incredibly popular in the summer months. The main ingredient is sea cucumber, which is boiled in a rich soup containing lots of vegetables and spices. This is then served chilled and topped with a variety of herbs. The flavour of mulhoe is light yet delicious.
9. Abalone
If you’re looking for a seafood dish with a difference, try abalone. This type of shellfish is unique to Jeju Island, and is available fresh or dried. Abalone has a firm texture and a delicate flavour, and can be served grilled, boiled or even raw.
10. Omegi
Omegi is a type of Jeju Island fermented seafood, similar to doenjang (Korean beansoup). The main ingredient is salted fish, which is mixed with vegetables and fermented over several weeks. Omegi has a strong umami flavour and is usually served as a side dish.
Jeju Island is a culinary paradise, with countless regional specialties waiting to be discovered. FromHallabong to HeukHwaja, and from abalone to omegi, there are enough delicious dishes here to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, be sure to enjoy the incredible tastes of Jeju Island.