The delicious delights of Gangwon Province's Traditional Cuisine
Gangwon Province is located in South Korea’s east coast and is known for its stunning mountain ranges and beautiful coastline. But it’s not just the scenery that makes Gangwon Province so special; the area is also renowned for its traditional cuisine.
Two of the most popular dishes from this region are Dak Gangjeong and Gamjatang. Let’s find out more about them.
Dak Gangjeong: Sweet and Spicy
Dak Gangjeong is a popular dish that is full of flavour and sweetness. It consists of deep-fried chicken nuggets that are coated in a sticky-sweet sauce made of honey, soy sauce, and chili peppers. This dish is very popular in Gangwon province and can be bought from street vendors and restaurants all over the region.
The dish is usually served alongside onions, bell peppers, and potatoes. This combination of vegetables helps to cut through the sweetness of the sauce and provides a contrasting texture to the crunchy, deep-fried chicken.
The sweet-and-spicy flavour of Dak Gangjeong makes it a hit with food lovers of all ages. It’s also incredibly straightforward to make at home so, if you fancy a taste of Gangwon Province without leaving your kitchen, why not give it a go?
Gamjatang: Rich and Comforting
Gamjatang is the perfect comfort food and a firm favourite among Gangwon Province locals. This rich and flavourful soup dish is made with pork spine, potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, garlic, and onions, all simmered in a delicious broth.
The pork spine is slow-cooked for several hours which gives the broth its flavourful and intense taste. The potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and onions give the soup a heartier and more comforting texture. The garlic and onions also add a level of heat and zing to the dish while the pork spine adds a smoky, meaty flavour to the soup.
The broth of Gamjatang is usually quite thick and rich, making it perfect for a cold and wet winter’s night. This dish is especially popular with families, especially around the holidays when it is served up in large gatherings.
The Benefits of Traditional Korean Cuisine
Traditional Korean food has a number of health benefits. Eating dishes like Dak Gangjeong and Gamjatang can help to boost the immune system and improve digestive health.
Dak Gangjeong is high in protein which is essential for a healthy body. The ingredients used in this dish are also full of vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamin C.
The slow-cooked broth of Gamjatang is also full of nutrients like antioxidants, B vitamins, and minerals. The pork spine in this dish is also high in protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent source of energy.
Overall, traditional Korean dishes like Dak Gangjeong and Gamjatang provide a nutritious and flavourful meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
Gangwon Province is home to some truly fantastic traditional dishes that are packed with flavour and nutrition. Both Dak Gangjeong and Gamjatang are known for their delicious taste and numerous health benefits.
So why not take a trip to Gangwon Province and experience the amazing flavours of these traditional Korean dishes for yourself? You won’t regret it!