Korea’s rich culture and colorful traditional values include a long list of offerings. But if there’s one thing that both travelers and locals simply can’t get enough of- it’s the food. Yes, the country’s famous cuisine is renowned across the globe. And these 5 must-try Korean foods are leading the pack! Most importantly, each cultural dish has some beautiful values and traditions associated with them. And that is exactly what makes it a culinary adventure of a lifetime. Furthermore, think along the lines of flavorsome spices, succulent meat, fresh vegetables, and a wholesome broth for days. Whatever the dish may be, one thing is for sure. You’ll never leave the table disappointed.
Here are 5 must-try Korean foods that are guaranteed to fulfill all your cravings and more!
Bibimbap – scrumptious lunch in a bowl
This wholesome and hearty meal combines everything that a foodie can dream of. For instance, rice, eggs, beef, and plenty of vegetables too. Let’s not forget that spicy and flavor-filled sauce, sure to tie all elements perfectly together.
Therefore, this is one of the many reasons why culinary experts term it as the ultimate lunch in a bowl meal.
A drop of chili oil and a dollop of fiery red chili paste- that’s all you need to get those taste buds rocking and rolling for more.
Meanwhile, many of the past would be surprised at the giant fan following for this dish. Whatever the case may be, we simply can’t get enough of the budget-friendly, quick, and wholesome goodness.
Dakgalbi – 5 must-try Korean foods
If there’s one dish that deserves the title for South Korea’s one-pot wonder, it’s definitely Dakgalbi. Be it students or adults, both Koreans and foreigners can’t get enough. And we can totally relate as to why.
Feast your eyes and tastebuds on succulent chunks of chicken, marinated brilliantly in numerous spices and chili sauce too. The meal is stir-fried amidst some of the most glorious spices, and fresh carrots, cabbage, and thin sweet potato.
Furthermore, don’t be surprised to see diners covering their clothes with aprons while feasting. Yes, the dish tends to splatter a lot so it’s uber comfortable to eat it this way.
Samgyetang – a delectable broth of ginseng with chicken
Who knew you could fight heat with heat? Yes, the age-old Korean tradition tells us that summertime is battled best with hot foods. And what better way to begin the sunny season than a bowl of refreshing chicken broth?
It’s all about binging done right with this boiling hot pot of sheet gluttony. On most occasions, Koreans can’t have enough of this delicacy, even during the most boiling days of the month.
The dish is unparalleled against all odds, comprising of slowly cooked broth with infused ginseng flavors. Moreover, if you think that the addition of this medicinal herb overpowers all others, then you’re mistaken.
The long cooking time tones it down beautifully, giving you the finest flavors of them all. And with soft and juicy chicken by your side, this broth is the purest indulgence of the finest kind.
Sundubu jjigae – flavor enhanced tofu at its best
Just when you thought tofu was bland comes another invention that’s more than meets the eye. Yes, this dish truly deserves a spot on the 5 must-try Korean foods list for days.
The Korean stew features soft but uncurdled tofu, freshly cut vegetables, and numerous other optional delicacies. Common examples of variables include seafood, meat, mushrooms, and onions too.
All in all, it’s a heartwarming and winning combination of flavors galore. And that’s probably one of the many reasons why food enthusiasts want it most when craving that fiery kick.
Bingsu – 5 must-try Korean foods
Korean cuisine is calling all sweet tooth lovers for a dessert that’s just too good to be true. Yes, it’s the ultimate combination of light, airy, and summery vibes.
Bingsu is undoubtedly one of the country’s most popular desserts during the summertime. Furthermore, beware because the composition just might shock you.
Would you believe that it comprises of red bean paste, also known as Pat, combined with tteok. Therefore, diners will find that these two ingredients amalagamate subtly to give a magical flavor.
And the most intriguing notions attached here is the fact that the dessert gets served on a glistening bed of shaved ice. How’s that for unique? But hey, that’s not all.
Kick up those flavors with some added touch of glory in the form of toppings. This includes condensed milk for silky smooth sweetness and some salty crunchy texture via corn flakes.
Other variations worth a mention include icecream and syrup- whatever tickles your fancy. You can even eliminate the red beans completely. In short, that means replacing them with some fresh fruit or good old ice cream.
With a menu like that, it’s no reason why Korean food bags one of the leading positions for favorite global cuisines. Nevertheless, one thing is for sure. Korean dishes go above and beyond the norms of Kimchi!
Read more: Fast Food Chains You Must Try In Korea