Exploring Jeolla Province: Where Delicious Traditional Korean Cuisine Awaits
Travelling through South Korea, many visitors are sure to be captivated by the country’s beautiful landscapes and modern cities. However, if you are looking for places that are off the beaten path, then one of the best places to go is Jeolla Province. Famous for its rice paddies and clean air, Jeolla is also home to some of the best traditional Korean cuisine around!
What to Expect from Jeolla Province
Jeolla Province is made up of several smaller areas, each of which has its own unique culinary identity. Depending on what kind of specialty dishes you are looking for, there will be something to suit all tastes in Jeolla.
From fresh seafood to classic recipes, Jeolla Province offers a wonderful variety of traditional food experiences. From Jeonju-style bibimbap to the iconic Noodles of Mokpo, no matter what kind of cuisine you are looking for, Jeolla has it all.
Unique Dishes You Must Try
- Jeonju Bibimbap
Jeonju-style bibimbap is probably one of the most iconic dishes of Jeolla Province and is a must-try for any visitor. This delicious and nutritious bowl of rice comes loaded with vegetables, meat, and gochujang sauce. Each ingredient is served separately, so you can mix and match the flavours to create your own perfect bibimbap.
- Mokpo-style Noodles
This famous noodle dish is the pride and joy of Mokpo. The noodles are said to be cooked in a secret recipe made with anchovy broth and boiled with root vegetables and other vegetables, giving them a distinct flavour and texture. This dish is perfect for those cold winter nights and can be served with a variety of side dishes.
- Haenyeo Bada
This traditional dish from Jeju Island is made with a mélange of sea vegetables, wild greens, and seaweed. The reason it is so unique is because it only contains ingredients that have been harvested from the sea. Haenyeo bada is a great example of the amazing dishes that can be found in the region.
- Goojeol Sauce
Goojeol is a traditional dish served as an accompaniment to seafood dishes. It is usually made with garlic, red pepper, anchovy broth, and sesame oil. The sauce is said to have been invented by Jeolla’s legendary seafarers, and its unique taste makes it the perfect accompaniment to seafood dishes.
- Hwayang-gui
If you love seafood, then you must try hwayang-gui. This classic grilled fish dish, made with 갈비살 (galbi-sal, a type of yellow croaker fish) is a popular dish in Jeolla. The fish is grilled with a variety of aromatics and spices, giving it a unique and tasty flavour that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
What Else to See and Do in Jeolla Province
Jeolla Province is more than just its delicious food. From its stunning mountain vistas to its unique cultural festivals, there is no shortage of things to do if you are looking for food experiences in the area.
A visit to Jeolla means interacting with some of the peaceful and beautiful elements of nature. This could include, exploring the many waterfalls located all around Jeolla, visiting the iconic Damyang Bamboo Forest, tasting delicious local foods, or learning about traditional folk arts and crafts particular to the area.
Also, one must not forget the numerous restaurants and bars that offer a wide array of local and regional cuisines that visitors can try and experience.
For those looking for a break from city life, Jeolla is the perfect destination for those who seek something a little different from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its traditional cuisine and stunning natural beauty, Jeolla is a great place to explore and enjoy the best of Korean culture.