5 Must-Try Korean Foods and Where to Find Them

5 Must-Try Korean Foods and Where to Find Them

 

 

Korean cuisine is known for its unique flavors and health benefits. From savory stews to spicy noodles, there's something for everyone to enjoy. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to five of the most representative Korean foods, their health benefits, and the best restaurants to try them at.

1. Kimchi (김치)

Kimchi is a staple in Korean cuisine and is made with fermented vegetables such as Napa cabbage, radish, and scallions. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and antioxidants, making it great for digestive health, immunity, and reducing inflammation.

Recommended Restaurant: Baekje Samgyetang (백제삼계탕)

Baekje Samgyetang is a popular restaurant in Seoul that specializes in samgyetang, a Korean chicken soup. Their kimchi is made with Napa cabbage and has a slightly sour and spicy taste that pairs well with the hearty and comforting soup.

2. Bibimbap (비빔밥)

Bibimbap is a rice bowl dish topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg. It is a well-balanced meal that is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. The dish also contains gochujang, a spicy red pepper paste that is high in capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Recommended Restaurant: Gogung (고궁)

Gogung is a popular chain restaurant in Seoul that serves traditional Korean cuisine. Their bibimbap is made with a variety of fresh vegetables, beef, and gochujang sauce, and is served in a hot stone bowl, which gives the dish a crispy texture.

3. Japchae (잡채)

Japchae is a Korean noodle dish made with sweet potato starch noodles, vegetables, and meat. It is a low-calorie dish that is high in fiber and nutrients. The dish is also gluten-free and can be easily adapted to a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Recommended Restaurant: Japchae Brothers (잡채브라더스)

Japchae Brothers is a small restaurant in Seoul that specializes in japchae. Their dish is made with high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed beef, fresh vegetables, and handmade noodles. The dish has a sweet and savory taste that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

4. Samgyetang (삼계탕)

Samgyetang is a Korean chicken soup made with a whole chicken stuffed with glutinous rice and boiled with ginseng, garlic, and other medicinal herbs. It is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein, calcium, and iron. The soup is believed to boost energy, promote healing, and improve overall health.

Recommended Restaurant: Tosokchon (토속촌)

Tosokchon is a famous restaurant in Seoul that specializes in samgyetang. Their dish is made with a young, tender chicken, and the soup is flavored with ginseng and other herbs. The restaurant is popular among locals and tourists alike and is often crowded, so be sure to arrive early to avoid long waits.

5. Tteokbokki (떡볶이)

Tteokbokki is a popular street food in Korea that is made with rice cakes, fish cakes, and gochujang sauce. It is a spicy and chewy snack that is perfect for cold weather. The dish is also low in fat and calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Recommended Restaurant: Mukshidonna (먹쉬돈나)

Mukshidonna is a chain restaurant that specializes in tteokbokki. Their dish is made with soft, chewy rice cakes, and the gochujang sauce is customizable based on your spice level preference. You can also add various toppings such as cheese, seafood, or vegetables to make the dish even more delicious.

 

 

 

Conclusion

Korean cuisine is a delicious and healthy option for anyone looking to try something new. These five dishes are just a small sample of the many amazing foods that Korea has to offer. Whether you're a student studying abroad or a backpacker traveling through Korea, be sure to add these foods to your must-try list.