When it comes to delicious street food, Seoul is one of the top destinations in the world. Korea’s lively capital city is home to a variety of unique and tasty snacks, from traditional Korean favorites to more modern adaptations of classic dishes. In this blog post, we’ll take a tour of some of Seoul’s mouthwatering street food and explore the various flavors and textures that make them so irresistible.
Gimbap
Gimbap is one of Korea’s most popular street foods. The dish consists of seasoned vegetables, rice, and pickles rolled together in seaweed, and is usually served with kimchi or other spicy condiments. Gimbap is popular among South Koreans of all ages and makes for a great snack or light meal. It is also vegetarian-friendly and can easily be customized with different ingredients.
Hotteok
Hotteok is another popular Korean street food that can be found in many parts of Seoul. Hotteok is a type of pancake filled with a delicious sweet filling of brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon. It is traditionally cooked on a flat, hot griddle and served hot. Hotteok can be enjoyed plain or topped with honey, nuts, or other toppings.
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a famous Korean dish of rice cakes, fish cake, and vegetables cooked in a spicy sauce. This dish is beloved by many Koreans, and can easily be found in many parts of Seoul. Tteokbokki is usually served with kimchi or kochujang (red pepper paste) and is often topped with fish cakes, eggs, and other ingredients.
Fried Mandu
Fried mandu, or Korean-style dumplings, are the epitome of delicious street food. Mandu are usually filled with pork, vegetables, or mushrooms and can be steamed, boiled, or deep-fried. Fried mandu are especially popular in Seoul, and can be found in numerous locations throughout the city. The fried dumplings can be eaten plain, dipped in soy sauce, or simply enjoyed with kimchi.
Kkwabaegi
Kkwabaegi are a type of Korean-style doughnut that are served as a snack in Seoul. These deep-fried treats are made with wheat flour, sugar, and vegetable oil and then filled with a sweet red bean paste. Kkwabaegi are a perfect indulgence to enjoy throughout the day, and can be found in many street markets and grocery stores.
Soondae
Soondae is a traditional Korean dish made with boiled pig’s intestines stuffed with pork and vegetables. Although the dish may sound off-putting at first, the flavor is surprisingly pleasant. Soondae can be enjoyed in various forms from freshly cooked strands to dried and fried. Soondae can be found in many parts of Seoul and can be paired with kimchi or other accompaniments to enjoy the full flavor.
Gogigui
Gogigui is a favorite of BBQ lovers in Seoul. The term “gogigui” translates to “meat grilled” and refers to any type of barbecued meat, usually beef or pork. Gogigui is usually served with a selection of sides such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and a variety of sauces that can be used to customize the flavor.
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is one of the most popular street foods in Seoul. The savory dish can be enjoyed in various forms from the classic fried chicken with its various sauces, to fried chicken with garlic or kimchi. Fried chicken is a great grab-and-go snack and is perfect for sharing with friends.
Bungeopap
Bungeopap is a Korean dessert made with mung bean and glutinous rice flour. The soft consistency of the dessert makes it a great treat for a warm, summer’s day. Bungeopap can be found in many convenient stores and traditional markets throughout Seoul and is usually served with a sweet syrup or honey.
Ddeokbokki
Ddeokbokki is a classic Korean dish that is increasingly popular in Seoul. The dish consists of rice cakes, fish cake, and vegetables in a spicy red pepper paste. Ddeokbokki is usually served in a hot and spicy sauce, but can also be enjoyed with a milder-flavored sauce for those who prefer a milder taste.
Jjonarae
Last but not least, jjonae is a South Korean snack that is similar to a stuffed pancake. The dish is made with a thin layer of egg batter, scallions, and a variety of other ingredients, and is usually served with a special dipping sauce. Jjonarae can be found in many street snack bars and is a great option for a quick, savory snack.
When it comes to street food, Seoul has something for everyone. From the savory flavors of gimbap and tteokbokki to the unique flavors of jjonarae and bungeopap, there’s no shortage of delicious snacks to choose from. If you’re looking for a tasty way to explore Seoul, don’t forget to try some of these mouthwatering snacks!