The 7 Best Winter Foods in South Korea
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0 Winter in South Korea is a magical time that brings out the best culinary delights. From piping hot stews to delicious street snacks, the Korean winter food scene is a true gastronomic adventure. Whether you’re a foodie or simply want to warm your soul during this chilly season, here are the top seven winter foods you must try in South Korea.
Table of Contents
1. Hotteok: A Sweet Delight for Cold Winter Days
Hotteok is a beloved Korean street food that is sure to warm you up on a cold winter day. These sweet pancakes are made with a fluffy dough filled with a delightful mixture of cinnamon, brown sugar, and chopped nuts. The dough is then fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior with a gooey, sweet center. Hotteok vendors can be found on bustling streets, and biting into one of these warm treats is like receiving a bear hug from the inside.
Recommended Hotteok Vendor:
Myeongdong Hotteok (Seoul) – https://www.myeongdonghotteok.com
2. Samgyetang: A Hearty Chicken Soup for the Soul
Samgyetang is a traditional Korean chicken soup that is believed to have incredible health benefits. It consists of a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, jujubes, and garlic, then simmered in a rich and flavorful broth. This hearty dish is particularly popular during the winter as it is believed to provide warmth and boost one’s immune system. The tender chicken, fragrant rice, and nourishing broth make samgyetang the ultimate comfort food during the colder months.
Recommended Samgyetang Restaurant:
Tosokchon Samgyetang (Seoul) – http://www.tosokchon.com
3. Budae Jjigae: A Fusion of Flavor and History
Budae Jjigae, also known as Army Stew, is a unique Korean dish that originated after the Korean War. It combines Korean ingredients such as kimchi, ramen noodles, sausage, tofu, and vegetables with American army surplus food like SPAM and hot dogs. This fusion of flavors creates a hearty and spicy stew that is perfect for battling the winter chill. Budae Jjigae is often enjoyed with a group of friends or family, as it is typically served in a large communal pot.
Recommended Budae Jjigae Restaurant:
Masizzim (Seoul) – https://www.masizzim.com
4. Bingsu: A Sweet Winter Wonderland
Although typically associated with summer, bingsu, or shaved ice dessert, has become a popular treat during the winter months as well. This indulgent dessert features a mound of finely shaved ice topped with sweet toppings such as red bean, fruit, chocolate, or condensed milk. The delicate texture of the ice combined with the burst of flavors makes bingsu a refreshing and satisfying winter dessert.
Recommended Bingsu Cafe:
Sulbing (Multiple locations) – https://sulbing.com
Read more on Etiquette at Korean meals
5. Mandu: Korean Dumplings That Warm the Heart
Mandu, or Korean dumplings, are a staple during the winter season. These bite-sized pockets of joy are filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, kimchi, vegetables, or tofu. They can be steamed, pan-fried, or boiled, and are often enjoyed with a flavorful dipping sauce. Mandu are not only delicious but also thought to bring luck and prosperity in the coming year when eaten on Lunar New Year’s Day, making them a popular winter dish.
Recommended Mandu Restaurant:
Gwangjang Market (Seoul) – http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
6. Sundubu Jjigae: Spicy Tofu Stew to Warm Your Soul
Sundubu Jjigae is a fiery and flavorful Korean stew made with soft tofu and a spicy chili broth. Additional ingredients such as mushrooms, seafood, vegetables, and meat can be added to enhance the taste. The bubbling hot stew arrives at the table in a stone pot, keeping it warm throughout the meal. Sundubu Jjigae is the perfect winter comfort food, providing a delightful balance of spice, warmth, and tanginess.
Recommended Sundubu Jjigae Restaurant:
Sundubu Story (Seoul) – https://www.sundubustory.co.kr
7. Hoddeok: A Winter foods Twist on a Classic Pancake
Hoddeok is another warm and sweet delight that is a must-try during the winter season. This Korean pancake is filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, similar to hotteok. However, hoddeok has a slightly different preparation method and texture. The dough is made with a yeast-based batter, resulting in a chewier and fluffier pancake. Break open a hoddeok and enjoy the wonderful aroma of caramelized sugar as it warms you from the inside out.
Recommended Hoddeok Vendor:
Kim Sunghee’s Hoddeok (Busan) – https://www.tripadvisor.com
“In South Korea, winter is all about indulging in heartwarming flavors that bring joy and comfort.”
In conclusion, South Korea’s winter culinary scene offers a range of delightful dishes that are guaranteed to keep you warm and satisfied. From the sweet and crispy hotteok to the savory and spicy sundubu jjigae, each dish brings its own unique flavors and experiences. So bundle up, step outside, and explore the countless eateries serving these mouthwatering winter foods. Your taste buds will thank you for embarking on this culinary adventure.
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