What Is Korean Cuisine?
Korean cuisine is one of the world's great culinary traditions, full of rich flavor and vibrant ingredients. It is comprised of many different dishes, from fiery, garlicky-spicy stews to pungent kimchi to mild, sweet treats. Korean food reflects the country's geography, with dishes made with the abundant seafood of the coasts, as well as the grilled meats from the mountains. It also reflects the country's rich history, with flavors and ingredients from different empires having passed through and staying in the Korean Peninsula.
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Kimchi – Probably the best known of all the Korean dishes, Kimchi is a side dish that is made with fermented vegetables like napa cabbages, radishes, and garlic. It is served at almost every Korean meal and is made with a variety of ingredients including chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce.
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Bibimbap– Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish of cooked rice, vegetables, and beef, topped with a fried egg and served with a spicy chili pepper sauce. The dish comes in many different variations, and can be topped with your choice of meats and vegetables, from cooked beef to fresh mushrooms and zucchini.
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Bulgogi– Bulgogi is a type of Korean grilled meat, usually made with thinly sliced beef that is marinaded in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and other seasonings. It is traditionally served on a bed of lettuce with a side of rice and kimchi.
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Japchae– Japchae is a popular side dish made with sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and a soy sauce-based dressing. It is often served at Korean festivals and occasions, and is a must-try for anyone interested in Korean cuisine.
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Korean Barbecue– Korean barbecue is a type of barbecued meat, usually beef or pork, cooked over charcoal. It is usually served with a variety of banchan, or small side dishes. The beef is often flavored with a variety of marinades and seasonings, and the pork can be cooked in a variety of ways from honeyed-garlic to sweet-and-spicy.
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Samgyetang– Samgyetang is a traditional Korean dish of a whole chicken stuffed with ginseng, garlic, and rice. The chicken is boiled in a broth with a variety of vegetables, and served with rice on the side. This dish is believed to have medicinal properties and to give strength to those who eat it.
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Soondubu Jjigae– Soondubu Jjigae is a spicy soft tofu stew traditionally made with pork belly, mushrooms, and kimchi. The stew is usually served with steamed white rice, and can be made extra spicy with additional chili pepper paste.
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Doenjang Jjigae– Doenjang Jjigae is a type of stew made with fermented soy bean paste, and is typically made with pork, tofu, and vegetables. It is a hearty and comforting stew, often served with steamed white rice.
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Damuyang– Damuyang is a traditional Korean noodle dish usually made with a clear broth. It is made with a variety of ingredients, from thinly sliced pork to mushrooms, and is usually served with kimchi.
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Sundubujjigae– Sundubujjigae is a spicy soft tofu stew traditionally made with pork, mushrooms, and kimchi. The stew is usually served with steamed white rice, and can be made extra spicy with additional chili pepper paste.
Conclusion
Korean cuisine is rich, complex, and filled with flavors that reflect the country’s history and geography. From fiery kimchi to comforting stews, there is something for everyone in the world of Korean cuisine. The ten dishes listed above are just a few of the many must-eat dishes in Seoul, and are sure to please any foodie hoping to get in touch with the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine.