Must-eat Food in Korea

When visiting Seoul, it's essential to explore the city's culinary scene. Rice is a staple food that has evolved over time, as have rice and soup dishes. Koreans also enjoy meat, particularly pork, chicken, and beef, in various preparations. To help you make the most of your trip, we've compiled a list of the top 10 must-try foods in Seoul.

Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean barbecue dish that involves grilling strips of pork belly on a grill in the middle of the table. The grilled meat is then wrapped in leafy vegetables and Ssamjang (thick and spicy paste sauce). The Koreans adore this one-of-a-kind dining experience, and rice, grilled garlic, and grilled Kimchi are frequently included in the wrap, depending on personal preference. If you are a meat lover, this is the perfect menu for you to indulge in.

Chicken is a popular dish in Korea, and you can order it from restaurants or have it delivered to your door. Koreans also love to pair their chicken with beer, a combination known as “Chimaek” (chicken with beer). Chicken, a staple in Korean cuisine, comes in a variety of flavors, with new options being introduced on a regular basis. If you're visiting Korea, we highly recommend sampling the different chicken flavors available.

Ganjang Gejang is a Banchan (side dish) that is typically served with rice. Soy sauce is used to marinate fresh raw crabs. The tender crab meat, soaked in soy sauce, is very flavorful, and it's known as the "rice thief" because it makes you want to eat more rice. If you enjoy seafood, this dish is ideal for you. While it's delicious all year, it's especially delicious in the spring (April-May), when the female crabs are full of eggs.

Kimchi is a fermented food that originated in Korea. As it ferments, it develops a crisp texture and a stronger sour flavor. It is a common Banchan in Korean restaurants, where it is used in a variety of dishes such as Kimchijjigae (Kimchi stew) and Kimchijeon (Kimchi pancake).

A traditional Korean dish made by mixing various vegetables and Gochujang (red chili paste) with rice. The colorful vegetables make it visually appealing and also a healthy menu. As the sauce used is spicy Gochujang, adjust the amount of it according to your preferences. If you enjoy raw beef, we recommend the Yukhoe (beef tartare) Bibimbap as well.

Gimbap is a popular and practical picnic food. Spread rice on a large piece of seaweed, then layer on various ingredients and tightly roll it up. Gimbap is distinguished by sesame oil and salt-seasoned rice. There are a variety of ingredient options, including cheese, tuna, and beef. Gimbap goes well with Ramyeon (instant noodles) and Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), so try these dishes together for a filling meal.

Koreans have a unique approach to dealing with summer heat. They believe in "fighting fire with fire," which entails consuming a steaming bowl of Samgyetang. This nutritious dish is made by boiling chicken with a variety of medicinal herbs. In Samgyetang, chicken is typically eaten plain, often dipped in salt. When the chicken is done, people finish their meal by making chicken porridge with the leftover broth.

Bulgogi is thinly sliced grilled marinated meat. Its sweet, rather than spicy, flavor appeals to both Koreans and foreigners, which is why it is only served to invited guests. Stir-fried Bulgogi becomes a kid-friendly option when combined with rice.

Cold noodle dishes like Mul Naengmyeon (buckwheat noodles in a cold broth) and Bibim Naengmyeon (spicy buckwheat noodles) are popular during the hot summer months. Mul Naengmyeon is served with chilled broth, whereas Bibim Naengmyeon is served without broth and with a spicy sauce. Naengmyeon is even more delicious when combined with meat, which is why it is commonly found on the menu of meat restaurants.

Seolleongtang is a traditional Seoul dish made by long-boiling various parts of beef. The milky bone broth has a soothing, mild flavor. Koreans like to eat it with rice and Kkakdugi (diced radish Kimchi) or Dadaegi sauce (spicy chili sauce). It is light on the stomach and ideal for breakfast.