When it comes to culinary experiences, Seoul has some of the best food in the world! With a variety of dishes to try, from the traditional to the more modern, Seoul is a great place to explore the unique flavors of Korean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Korean dish, like the spicy, stew-like Kimchi Jjigae, or something more contemporary, like Korean-style fried chicken, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at 10 of the most popular – and delicious – dishes Seoul has to offer.
1. Kimchi Jjigae
Kimchi Jjigae is a spicy, stew-like dish made from fermented kimchi (a traditional Korean side dish made from vegetables and spices) and other ingredients like pork, beef, or seafood. It’s an incredibly popular dish in Korea, and can be found in almost any restaurant. The broth is usually spicy, but there are also milder versions available. Kimchi jjigae is a great way to try kimchi without the fear of being overwhelmed by the flavor.
2. Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Fried Chicken (KFC) is a style of fried chicken made with a light batter and deep-fried to a crisp. It’s usually served with a sweet-and-spicy sauce that add unique flavor to the chicken. KFC is a popular street food in Korea and is usually served with pickled radish and beer.
3. Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a popular rice dish made with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, beef or chicken, a fried egg, seaweed, and a gochujang-based sauce. It’s a great dish for anyone who wants to get a taste of Korean food in one bite. The dish is usually served hot and has a healthy balance of flavor in each spoonful.
4. Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean noodle dish made with sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce. It’s a popular dish at Korean restaurants, and can be served as either a side dish or a main dish. The noodles are typically stir-fried with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, onions, mushrooms, peppers, and spinach, and then mixed with the spicy sauce.
5. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular spicy Korean street food made from cylindrical-shaped rice cakes, vegetables, and a delicious gochujang-based sauce. It’s usually served with kimchi and a hard-boiled egg as a topping. The chewy texture of the rice cakes combined with the spicy sauce makes this dish a must-try!
6. Korean Bulgogi BBQ
Bulgogi is a traditional Korean dish made from thinly sliced beef marinated in a variety of ingredients, such as garlic, onions, soy sauce, sugar, and various spices. It’s usually served with a variety of side dishes, such as kimchi, vegetables, and steamed rice. Bulgogi is typically cooked on a hot grill and served with a variety of sauces, including soybean paste and sesame oil. It’s a great dish for anyone looking for a delicious and filling meal.
7. Seafood Pajeon
Seafood Pajeon is a savory pancake made with a variety of ingredients, such as scallions, vegetables, and seafood. It’s usually served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar. Seafood Pajeon is a great dish for anyone looking for a light meal that’s still filling and flavorful.
8. Kalguksu
Kalguksu is a traditional Korean noodle soup made with thick, handmade wheat noodles in a homemade broth. It’s usually served with a variety of vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, onion, and scallions. The soup is a popular comfort food for many Koreans, and can be found in many restaurants throughout Seoul.
9. Samgyeopsal
Samgyeopsal is a traditional Korean dish made from pork belly that’s grilled on a charcoal fire and served with a variety of side dishes. It’s usually served with lettuce, kimchi, a variety of sauces, and ssamjang, a spicy vegetable paste. Samgyeopsal is a great way to experience the flavors of Korean BBQ in the comfort of your home.
10. Korean Hot Pot
Korean Hot Pot is a stew-like dish made from a variety of ingredients, such as kimchi, vegetables, seafood, and meat. It’s usually served with a variety of dipping sauces and a bowl of steamed rice. The dish is served boiling hot, which makes it a great meal for cold nights.
No matter what type of food you’re looking for, Seoul has some of the best dishes the world has to offer. From the traditional to the modern, these 10 must-try dishes will give you a great taste of Korean cuisine. From the spicy Kimchi Jjigae to the classic Samgyeopsal, you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds. So the next time you’re in Seoul, be sure to try out some of these delicious dishes. Your taste buds will thank you!