Gangwon, a province in South Korea, is renowned for its beautiful scenery, but few know that the province is home to many delicious dishes as well. Dishes such as hoeddeok and gamjatang have local flavors and textures that have made them beloved dishes in Gangwon.
Hoeddeok: Sweet and Satisfying
Hoeddeok is a type of sweetened pancake popular in Gangwon. The main ingredients of hoeddeok include wheat flour, water, sugar, honey and nuts. The batter is poured onto a hot, greased pan and then shaped into a pancake-like round shape. The pancake is then cooked on both sides until golden-brown. The result is a delicious sweet treat that is both crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Hoeddeok is served either hot or cold. The hot version is usually served with a dollop of sweet honey or syrup and sprinkled with crushed peanuts. The cold version is served with a mound of shaved ice on top and topped with a variety of sweet sauces, such as licorice or chocolate. Both versions are sinfully sweet and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Gamjatang: Savory and Hearty
Gamjatang is a hearty soup popular in Gangwon. The main ingredients consist of pork neck bones boiled in a rich, spicy broth made from gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) and garlic. This soup is usually served with with steamed rice and various vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, and scallions. The pork neck bones are cooked for a long time, resulting in a soup that is full of flavor and incredibly savory.
The spicy soup is commonly served as a side dish to other traditional dishes. It is also often served as a shared meal with friends or family, where diners can pick and choose the ingredients they desire. This makes Gamjatang an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of contexts.
Exploring the Flavors of Gangwon
Gangwon has a rich culture full of delicious dishes that are both delicious and unique. Hoeddeok and Gamjatang are just two of the many dishes that give Gangwon its unforgettable flavors. Whether it is the sweet and satisfying hoeddeok or the savory and hearty Gamjatang, Gangwon has something to offer everyone.
These two dishes are just a glimpse into the great cuisine of Gangwon province. If you have the opportunity, take the time to explore the variety of flavors Gangwon has to offer.