Korean food has a unique blend of sweet, savory, spicy, and salty flavors that make it some of the most interesting cuisine in the world. In the province of Gyeonggi-do, located just south of Seoul, visitors can experience dishes made with traditional Korean ingredients at restaurants that have been serving up traditional recipes for centuries.
Korean cuisine is often served as a selection of side dishes (called banchan) before the main course, and guests are expected to pass dishes around the table so everyone can try a bit of everything. Whether you’re in the mood for a steaming bowl of stew or a plate of spicy fried chicken, Gyeonggi-do has something to offer. Here are 10 must-try dishes to experience the best of Korean cuisine in Gyeonggi-do:
1. Doenjang Jjigae (Fermented Soybean Soup)
Doenjang jjigae is a savory soup made from fermented soybean paste. It’s usually served bubbling hot with vegetables, mushrooms, and sometimes seafood. The soup is comforting and flavorful and makes for a great way to start a meal.
2. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice)
Bibimbap is a classic Korean dish that consists of steamed white rice topped with an array of vegetables, usually seasoned with gochujang (a hot pepper paste). It’s often served with a fried egg on the side and is often accompanied by a variety of kimchi (spicy fermented vegetables).
3. Samgyeopsal (Strips of Pork Belly)
Samgyeopsal is one of the most popular dishes in Korean cuisine. It’s essentially thick slices of pork belly that are grilled on special grills at the table and served with various sauces for dipping. It’s usually served with lettuce leaves, so guests can wrap the grilled pork belly in a lettuce leaf and dip it in the sauces of their choice.
4. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Soup)
Kimchi jjigae is a spicy and hearty stew made with kimchi and various other ingredients. It usually contains pork, tofu, and plenty of vegetables. The soup is flavorful and comforting and it can be served with steamed white rice or a bowl of ramen.
5. Bulgogi (Marinated Beef)
Bulgogi is thinly-sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s usually grilled and served with steamed white rice and several side dishes. The marinade is made with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other flavorful ingredients.
6. Japchae (Stir-Fried Noodles)
Japchae is a classic noodle dish made with sweet potato starch noodles that are stir-fried in sesame oil with mushrooms, vegetables, beef, and eggs. It’s usually served as a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course.
7. Soon Dubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)
Soon dubu jjigae is a spicy stew made with soft tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables. It’s usually served with steamed white rice and has a bit of heat from the gochujang (a hot pepper paste), which can be adjusted to the diner’s preference.
8. Haemul Pajeon (Korean Pancake)
Haemul pajeon is a Korean pancake filled with seafood (usually shrimp, squid, and octopus) and green onions. The pancake is usually served with a spicy dipping sauce. It’s a popular snack or appetizer in Gyeonggi-do and you can find many restaurants that specialize in the dish.
9. Korean Fried Chicken
Korean fried chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Gyeonggi-do. It’s usually fried twice, making it extra crispy, and it’s usually served with a variety of dipping sauces. It can be quite spicy and addictive, so be sure to try it if you’re looking for a unique snack.
10. Gimbap (Korean Sushi)
Gimbap is a popular Korean dish made with steamed white rice, vegetables, and sometimes seafood all rolled up in seaweed. It’s a great snack or lunch option and can be customized with different ingredients. It’s usually served with a soy-based dipping sauce or kimchi on the side.
Whether you’re in the mood for a savory soup or a spicy fried chicken, Gyeonggi-do has something to offer. From the hearty and flavorful Doenjang Jjigae to the addictive and crunchy Korean Fried Chicken, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious dishes in Gyeonggi-do. By trying out these 10 must-try dishes, you’ll be able to experience the best of Korean cuisine.