What is Korean Barbecue?

Korean barbecue is the ultimate way of cooking meat and vegetables over a piece of metal or stone which is heated and placed on top of a charcoal fire. It is one of Korea’s most iconic and delicious dishes, deeply rooted in the history and culture of the country. Korean barbecue is a type of barbecue where marinated meats are cooked right at the table and then seasoned with a variety of sauces and condiments. This form of barbecue can be found in many locations in South Korea, from Seoul to Busan. It is also popular among Koreans living in other countries around the world.

History of Korean Barbecue

Korean barbecue has its roots in the traditional Korean cookery, which dates back centuries ago. Barbecue in Korea was initially known as ganjang gyeopbbang, meaning “meat grilled in salt”. This was a method of cooking meats over an open fire, which was often done for special occasions such as large family gatherings. With the advent of modern stoves and grills, this technique of cooking was adapted to the modern barbecue.

The popularity of Korean barbecue has grown significantly over the years, and the different types of marinades and sauces have evolved with it. Koreans have perfected and fine-tuned this method of cooking to make it one of the most delicious and popular styles of cooking in the world.

What’s in a Korean Barbecue

Korean barbecue typically features beef and pork, as well as a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, and onions, which are sometimes cooked together with the meat. The marinades used for the meat are usually soy sauce based, but a variety of other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and sesame oil are also used.

The marinades can vary greatly from region to region and from family to family, but there are a few key ingredients which are commonly used. For instance, gochjang (Korean chilli paste) and doenjang (Korean soybean paste) are two staples of any Korean marinade.

In addition to the marinade, a variety of sauces and condiments are usually served alongside the meat and vegetables. The most popular condiment is ssamjang, which is a blend of the two pastes, gochjang and doenjang. Another popular condiment is kimchi, which is a type of spicy pickled cabbage.

Benefits of Korean Barbecue

Aside from its delicious flavour, Korean barbecue also offers a number of health benefits. The marinades and sauces used in Korean barbecue are typically low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthier option than traditional barbecue. In addition, the vegetables that are often included in the dish are rich in nutrients and are a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.

Korean barbecue is also a great way to get people to interact and socialize. Many Korean restaurants will provide seating for groups which encourage people to share the food and converse while they enjoy it. Some restaurants even offer all-you-can-eat buffets, which are great for large gatherings and help to foster a sense of community.

How to Cook Korean Barbecue

Korean barbecue is a great way to get people together to enjoy delicious food and conversation. While the marinades and sauces for Korean barbecue can be prepared prior to cooking, it is best to cook the meat and vegetables over an open flame or on a hot grill.

The key to a successful Korean barbecue is to properly marinate the meat. The marinade should be used to thoroughly coat the meat and should be left for at least two to three hours to allow for maximum flavour absorption. Before cooking, the meat should be patted dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

Once the meat has been marinated and the grill is hot, quickly sear the meat on both sides to create a crust. This will help to seal in the juices and prevent the meat from drying out. When the meat has had its initial sear, you can start to cook it over indirect heat on the cooler parts of the grill. The meat should be monitored and flipped regularly to avoid it from burning or becoming overcooked.

When the meat is cooked to the desired doneness, it should be transferred to a cutting board and allowed to rest for around five minutes. This will allow the meat to reabsorb the juices before being sliced.

To enjoy your Korean barbecue, cut the meat into thin slices and serve with the accompanying condiments and sauces. It is also customary to wrap the sliced meat in lettuce leaves or other types of vegetables.

Conclusion

Korean barbecue is one of Korea’s most iconic dishes and it is quickly gaining popularity in the West. Not only is it delicious and flavourful, it also offers numerous health benefits due to its low fat content. Whether you are in Seoul or Busan, Korean barbecue is definitely worth trying. With the right marinade and some tasty condiments, you and your friends are sure to enjoy a great Korean style meal that’s full of flavour and culture.