It has been said that “food is a bridge that connects people, regardless of their backgrounds.” That saying could not be more true when it comes to Korean cuisine. From savory kimchi to spicy hotteok (Korean pancakes), there is something for everyone to enjoy in Korean food. Whether you are an adventurous gastronome or a picky eater, you can find something to tantalize your taste buds in Korea.
Over the years, Korea has developed some unique dishes that set it apart from other countries. Whether it’s a traditional favorite or a trendy new creation, Korean food has become known around the world as a delicious and expansive cuisine. Here we will explore some of Korea’s signature dishes, and give you a taste of what Korean food is all about.
Bulgogi - Korea's Signature BBQ Dish
Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish that has become famous around the world. Bulgogi, which translates to “fire meat”, is made with marinated slices of beef or pork that are grilled on an open flame. Bulgogi is usually served with a variety of side dishes such as japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), kimchi, and salads. Bulgogi is commonly served as an ingredient in many Korean dishes such as bibimbap (rice mixed with vegetables and chili sauce) and samgyupsal (pork belly slices grilled with vegetables).
The marinade itself usually consists of a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and usually some type of sweetener. This marinade not only gives the dish its signature flavor, but also helps to keep the meat tender and juicy on the grill. Bulgogi is usually served with banchan, small side dishes of vegetables or pickles. Common banchan include kimchi, muk (Korean seaweed salad), oi muchim (spicy cucumber salad), sangchu muchim (lettuce salad with sesame oil and garlic), and gosari namul (bracken fiddlehead fern).
Samgyetang - Korea's Famous Chicken Soup
Samgyetang is a Korean dish made up of a whole chicken stuffed with a mixture of sticky rice, garlic, chestnuts, ginseng, and other herbs. This dish is usually served with a bowl of soup broth made of chicken, garlic, ginger, and other vegetables. Many people believe that Samgyetang is a nourishing dish as it is thought to boost the immune system.
Samgyetang is simmered for hours to create a flavorful broth, and to also make sure the chicken meat is cooked through. The sticky rice inside the chicken helps to infuse it with flavor, as well as act as a binder for the many herbs and vegetables. This combination of ingredients makes for a hearty and warming soup that is popular across Korea.
Bibimbap - A Popular Everyday Dish
Bibimbap is a popular everyday Korean dish that is easy to make at home. It is made by mixing together cooked rice with assorted vegetables, beef, egg, and a special chili pepper paste sauce. The vegetables can include zucchini, cucumber, spinach, eggplant, and mushrooms. The beef can be thinly sliced and marinated for added flavor.
Bibimbap is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. The chili pepper paste sauce adds a kick of spiciness, which is balanced out by the savory flavors from the beef and the mildness of the vegetables. Bibimbap is often served with a variety of accompaniments such as kimchi, roasted seaweed, and a spicy soup.
Hotteok - A Popular Korean Street Food
Hotteok is a popular Korean street food that is known for its sweet and chewy texture. It is made with a mixture of grain flour, yeast, sugar, and honey, which is then shaped into a round disc and fried. The inside is filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon. Hotteok is an incredibly popular snack in Korea, especially among the younger generations.
Unlike most Korean dishes, hotteok is not spicy or savory. Instead, it is sweet and often features nutty flavors from the grain flour and other ingredients used in the filling. The crispiness of the outside of the hotteok complements the gooey sweetness of the inside, making this snack an incredibly popular treat.
Conclusion
From savory bulgogi to sweet hotteok, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Korean cuisine. These signature dishes from Korea not only provide delicious flavors, but also have become an important part of the cultural fabric in Korea. Whether you are looking for a hearty meal or just a tasty snack, be sure to check out some of Korea’s signature dishes to get a taste of the unique flavors of Korean food.