Gyeonggi-do - A Region of South Korea known for Its Rich Culinary Traditions
South Korea is well-known the world over for its rich culinary traditions. Gyeonggi-do is at the very heart of that culinary heritage, with its delicacies and recipes providing fantastic feasts that will satisfy any craving. This rich region of South Korea has been the source of some unique and tasty specialties, from savory and spicy to sweet and sour. Here, we’ll explore the six local specialties of Gyeonggi-do – so let’s tuck in!
Dakgangjeong: Fried Chicken and Sweet-and-Sour Sauce
This delicious dish is a fried chicken served with a sweet-and-sour sauce made from a soy-based blend of ingredients. The dish comes in a variety of forms, including strips, cubes, and whole chicken parts. The chicken is first prepared in a marinade of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sugar, before being fried. It is then rolled in a blend of cornstarch, flour, maize flakes, and other spices. Finally, the dish is finished off with a generous coating of a tangy sweet-and-sour sauce. The mix of flavors makes for a delightful and mouth-watering dish.
Budae Jjigae: Fusion Soup
Budae Jjigae, commonly referred to as "Army Base Stew," is a dish combining a variety of ingredients including kimchi, pork, and other preserved foods, such as ham and sausages, originally provided by American military bases located in the Gyeonggi-do region. The dish also includes green onions, mushrooms, tofu, chilies, garlic, and green peppers. The result is a unique, zesty, and savory soup with a very distinctive flavor.
Samgyetang: Chicken Soup
Samgyetang is a traditional soup dish, which is usually made with an entire young chicken. The chicken is first stuffed with a mix of rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube, which are all ingredients known to have health benefits. The bird is then slowly simmered in a broth seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices. The result is a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious, with a balanced mix of proteins and carbohydrates.
Dongchimi: Spicy Pickled Radish
This is a type of kimchi made with Korean white radish and flavored with chili, garlic, ginger, and other spices. The radish is cut into cubes and then seasoned with the chilies and other ingredients. This produces a spicy and tart pickled radish, which can be eaten on its own or used as an accompaniment to other dishes. It’s a great way to spice up your meals and add an extra kick of flavor!
Ttokpokki: Rice Cake and Fish Cake Dish
Ttokpokki is a dish made with thin, rectangular rice cakes and fish cakes in a sweet and spicy sauce. The rice cakes are first boiled and then stir-fried with the fish cakes and sauce. The result is a chewy texture that has a light and crispy outside with a chewy inside. It’s a popular street food dish, usually served with kimchi, and a great meal or snack for any time of day.
Mat Sae Naeng Myun: Cold Noodles
This refreshing and delicious cold noodle dish is one of the most iconic dishes of Gyeonggi-do and is known for its sweet and sour flavor. The cold, buckwheat noodles are served with a chilled and a spicy sauce on the side, which includes a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and pear juice. The noodles are then garnished with cucumber, pear, and egg as well as kimchi, boiled egg, and seaweed. This mix of flavors makes for a delicious dish perfect for a hot summer day.
Gyeonggi-do has something to offer for any occasion, from quick and enjoyable snacks to complete and nutritious meals. Each local specialty has a distinct flavor, making them the perfect way to explore the culinary heritage of the region. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a hearty meal, or just something to snack on, Gyeonggi-do has something for you. So next time you find yourself in South Korea, why not treat yourself to a taste of traditional Gyeonggi-do cuisine and enjoy these delicious delights?