Top 15 Best Traditional Korean Food in Seoul
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0 Traditional Korean cuisine has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years. The roots of Korean food can be traced back to ancient agricultural practices, which relied heavily on rice cultivation and natural ingredients and seasonings. Over time, Korean cuisine evolved and was influenced by various cultural and historical factors. The top 15 Best Traditional Korean Food in Seoul are below.
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During the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 668 AD), Korea was divided into three kingdoms: Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. Each domain developed its own unique culinary traditions, which were influenced by neighboring countries such as China and Japan.
During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Korean cuisine continued to evolve and became more refined, with a greater emphasis on presentation and balance of flavors. Many of the dishes still popular in Korea today, such as kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap, have their roots in this period.
In the early 20th century, Korea was annexed by Japan, and Japanese influence on Korean cuisine led to the development of new dishes and cooking techniques. After World War II, Korea gained independence and experienced a period of rapid modernization, which led to the introduction of fresh ingredients and cooking styles.
Today, Korean cuisine is a vibrant and diverse blend of tradition and innovation, with many dishes and flavors to explore. Korean food is known for its bold and spicy flavors, as well as its emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Some popular Korean dishes include kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap, Korean fried chicken, and tteokbokki. Korean cuisine has gained popularity worldwide in recent years, with Korean restaurants and food trucks popping up in many countries.
Top 15 Best Traditional Korean Food in Seoul
Bibimbap (Rice Bowl)
Bibimbap is a popular Korean dish that literally means “mixed rice” in Korean. It is a colorful and nutritious dish that is made by combining steamed rice with various vegetables, meat, egg, and spicy sauce.
The dish typically includes a variety of vegetables such as spinach, carrots, bean sprouts, mushrooms, and zucchini, as well as meat such as beef or pork, and a fried or raw egg. The ingredients are arranged on top of the rice decoratively, and the dish is served with a spicy sauce called gochujang.
To eat bibimbap, you mix all of the ingredients together with the sauce and rice, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. It is a popular dish in Korea and can be found in many Korean restaurants and street food stalls.
Bibimbap is known for its health benefits, as it is high in fiber, protein, and vitamins. It is also an excellent option for vegetarians, as it can be made without meat and still be flavorful and filling.
Japchae (Glass Noodles)
Japchae is a traditional Korean dish that is made with glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, vegetables, and meat. The dish is stir-fried with sesame oil and soy sauce and often includes mushrooms, spinach, carrots, onions, and beef or pork.
The dish has a slightly sweet and savory taste and a chewy texture from the glass noodles. It is often served as a side dish or as a main course and is popular on special occasions such as weddings and holidays.
Japchae has a long history in Korean cuisine and is believed to have originated during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It was initially a royal dish and was served to the king and his guests on special occasions. Over time, the word became more widely available and popular throughout Korea.
Japchae is known for its health benefits, as it is low in fat and calories and high in fiber and vitamins. It is also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities.
Japchae is a delicious and nutritious dish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. It can be found in many Korean restaurants and is also easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
Samgyeopsal (Korean BBQ)
Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean dish that consists of thick slices of pork belly that are grilled and served with various accompaniments. It is a staple of Korean barbecue and is often enjoyed with friends and family in a social setting.
To prepare samgyeopsal, the pork belly is usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, and is grilled over an open flame or on a hot plate. The meat is then cut into bite-sized pieces and served with lettuce leaves, sliced garlic, ssamjang (a spicy paste made from fermented soybeans and chili), and other condiments such as kimchi and pickled vegetables.
One of the unique aspects of samgyeopsal is the way it is eaten. The pork belly is typically placed on a lettuce leaf, along with the other accompaniments, and is then wrapped up and eaten in one bite. The combination of grilled meat, crunchy lettuce, and spicy condiments creates a delicious and satisfying flavor.
Samgyeopsal is a beloved dish in Korea and is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is often served at special occasions such as family gatherings and celebrations and is also a popular menu item at Korean restaurants around the world.
Kimchi (Fermented Vegetables)
Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish that is made from fermented vegetables, most commonly Napa cabbage, along with spices and seasonings. The dish has a distinctive sour and spicy flavor and is often used as a side dish or condiment in Korean cuisine.
To make kimchi, the cabbage is first chopped and salted and then mixed with a spicy paste made from chili powder, garlic, ginger, and other ingredients. The mixture is then fermented in a sealed container for several days or weeks, allowing the flavors to develop and the bacteria to break down the vegetables.
Kimchi is a staple of Korean cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is often served as a side dish with rice and other Korean dishes and is also used as a flavoring ingredient in soups, stews, and other dishes.
In addition to its delicious taste, kimchi is also known for its health benefits. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, and is believed to help with digestion, boost the immune system, and improve overall health.
Kimchi has become increasingly popular worldwide in recent years and can be found in many Korean restaurants and grocery stores around the world.
Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Pancakes)
Haemul Pajeon is a popular Korean dish that is made with a savory pancake batter mixed with seafood, scallions, and other ingredients. The dish is typically served as a snack or appetizer and is often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes.
To make Haemul Pajeon, the seafood is usually chopped into small pieces and mixed with scallions, flour, eggs, and other seasonings. The mixture is then fried in a pan until golden brown and crispy on the outside, and soft and chewy on the inside.
The seafood used in Haemul Pajeon can vary depending on the region and availability, but common ingredients include squid, shrimp, and oysters. The scallions add a fresh and flavorful element to the dish and help to balance out the richness of the seafood.
Haemul Pajeon is a popular dish in Korea and is often enjoyed with friends and family in a social setting. It is a great option for those who enjoy seafood and is a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer. It can be found in many Korean restaurants and food stalls and is also easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
Kimbap/Gimbap (Korean Sushi)
Kimbap (also called Gimbap) is a popular Korean dish similar to sushi. It consists of steamed white rice that is seasoned with sesame oil and salt and then rolled in sheets of dried seaweed (nori) along with various fillings.
The fillings can vary depending on personal preference and availability, but common ingredients include carrots, spinach, pickled radish, cucumber, egg, ham, or other meats. The fillings are usually cut into thin strips and arranged in a line on top of the rice before rolling.
Once the kimbap is rolled, it is sliced into bite-sized pieces and served cold or at room temperature. It is often served as a snack or light meal and is a popular option for picnics, road trips, and other on-the-go situations.
Kimbap is a beloved dish in Korea and can be found in many Korean restaurants and food stalls around the world. It is a great option for those who enjoy sushi or other rice-based dishes and is a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
Sundubu Jjigae (Korean Tofu Stew)
Sundubu jjigae is a spicy Korean stew made with soft tofu (sundubu) as the main ingredient, along with various vegetables, meat, or seafood, and a spicy broth made with gochujang (Korean chili paste).
To make sundubu jjigae, the tofu is usually cut into small cubes and added to a pot with vegetables such as onions, garlic, and mushrooms, along with meat or seafood such as beef, pork, clams, or shrimp. The broth is then added to the pot, which is typically made from a combination of gochujang, soy sauce, and other seasonings. The stew is then simmered until the tofu and other ingredients are soft and tender.
Sundubu jjigae is known for its spicy and flavorful taste and is often served with a bowl of steamed rice and various side dishes such as kimchi and pickled vegetables. It is a popular comfort food in Korea and is often enjoyed in cold weather or when feeling under the weather.
Sundubu jjigae is also considered a healthy dish, as it is high in protein and vitamins, and low in fat and calories. It is a great option for those who enjoy spicy and flavorful foods and is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be found in many Korean restaurants around the world.
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice cake)
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food and snack made with cylinder-shaped rice cakes that are cooked in a spicy and sweet sauce. The dish also often includes fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions for added flavor and texture.
To make tteokbokki, the rice cakes and fish cakes are boiled in a spicy and sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. The dish is then garnished with chopped scallions and boiled eggs, and served hot.
Tteokbokki is known for its bold and spicy flavor and is a popular snack and meal option in Korea. It is often sold by street vendors and food stalls, and can also be found in many Korean restaurants.
In addition to its delicious taste, tteokbokki is also a popular dish for its health benefits. The rice cakes are a good source of carbohydrates, while the fish cakes and eggs provide protein and other nutrients. The spicy sauce is also believed to have health benefits, as it can help to boost metabolism and improve digestion.
Tteokbokki is a must-try dish for anyone who enjoys spicy and flavorful foods and is a delicious and satisfying snack or meal that can be found in many Korean restaurants around the world.
Seollengtang (OX Bone Soup)
Seolleongtang is a traditional Korean soup made from ox bones and meat that is boiled for several hours until the broth becomes rich and milky white in color. The soup is typically served with rice and various condiments such as sliced scallions, garlic, and chili flakes.
To make seolleongtang, the ox bones and meat are boiled for several hours with water and other seasonings such as garlic, ginger, and scallions. The broth is then strained and simmered until it becomes rich and flavorful. The boiled meat is usually sliced thinly and added back into the soup.
Seolleongtang is known for its comforting and satisfying flavor and is a popular dish in Korea. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast or lunch dish and is believed to have health benefits such as improving digestion and boosting immunity.
In addition to its traditional preparation, there are also variations of seolleongtang that include additional ingredients such as noodles, dumplings, and vegetables. Regardless of the variation, seolleongtang is a delicious and nutritious soup that is enjoyed by many people around the world.
Patbingsu
Patbingsu is a popular Korean dessert that is made with shaved ice and various sweet toppings. The dish typically includes a base of shaved ice, topped with sweet red bean paste (pat), sweetened condensed milk, fruit, and other toppings such as chopped nuts, cereal, or mochi (chewy rice cakes).
To make patbingsu, shaved ice is typically made by shaving a block of ice with a machine or by using a special tool. The shaved ice is then placed in a bowl and topped with the sweet red bean paste, fruit, and other toppings. The dish is often served with a side of sweetened condensed milk or can be mixed together with the toppings for a creamy, sweet flavor.
Patbingsu is a popular dessert in Korea, especially during the summer months when temperatures can be hot and humid. It is a refreshing and satisfying treat that can be found in many Korean dessert shops and cafes around the world.
In addition to its delicious taste, patbingsu is also considered a healthy dessert option, as it is often made with fresh fruit and natural sweeteners. It is a great option for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without consuming too many calories or processed sugars.
Hangover stew
Hangover stew, also known as Haejangguk in Korean, is a traditional Korean soup that is believed to help cure hangovers. The soup is made with a rich and flavorful broth that is typically made from beef bones, along with various vegetables, meat, and spices.
To make a hangover stew, the beef bones are boiled for several hours with other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and scallions until the broth becomes rich and flavorful. Vegetables such as cabbage, bean sprouts, and radish are then added to the broth, along with meat such as beef or pork.
Hangover stew is known for its spicy and savory flavor and is often served with rice and side dishes such as kimchi and pickled vegetables. It is a popular dish in Korea, especially among those who enjoy drinking alcohol.
In addition to its delicious taste, hangover stew is believed to have health benefits such as improving digestion, replenishing lost nutrients, and reducing inflammation. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that can help to cure hangovers and soothe upset stomachs.
Hangover stew is a must-try dish for anyone who wants to experience traditional Korean cuisine and cure a hangover at the same time. It can be found in many Korean restaurants and food stalls around the world.
Kongguksu
Kongguksu is a traditional Korean cold noodle dish made with wheat noodles served in a chilled soy milk broth. The dish is often garnished with sliced cucumbers, sesame seeds, and sometimes boiled eggs.
To make kongguksu, the wheat noodles are boiled and then cooled in cold water. The soy milk is then blended with water, garlic, and salt to create a creamy and savory broth. The noodles are then served in the cold soy milk broth with garnishes on top.
Kongguksu is a popular summer dish in Korea, as it is refreshing and light, yet still satisfying. It is also a vegetarian-friendly dish, as it does not contain any meat.
In addition to its delicious taste, kongguksu is also believed to have health benefits, as it is high in protein and nutrients from soy milk. It is a great option for those who are looking for a healthy and refreshing meal and can be found in many Korean restaurants and food stalls around the world.
Jjajangmyeon
Jjajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese dish that consists of wheat noodles served in a savory sauce made from black bean paste (jjajang), along with various vegetables such as onions, potatoes, and zucchini.
To make jjajangmyeon, the black bean paste is stir-fried with oil and other seasonings such as garlic, ginger, and sugar, until it becomes fragrant and thick. The vegetables are then added to the sauce and cooked until tender. The wheat noodles are boiled separately and then served with the sauce on top.
Jjajangmyeon is known for its rich and savory flavor and is a popular comfort food in Korea. It is often served with a side of danmuji (yellow pickled radish) and is typically eaten with chopsticks.
In addition to its delicious taste, jjajangmyeon is also a filling and satisfying meal. It is a great option for those who are looking for a hearty and flavorful dish and can be found in many Korean-Chinese restaurants and food stalls around the world.
Chimaek
Chimaek is a popular Korean food culture that combines fried chicken (chi) and beer (maekju). It is a beloved snack and meal option in Korea, especially among young people and those who enjoy drinking alcohol.
To make chimaek, crispy fried chicken is typically seasoned with various sauces such as sweet and spicy, garlic, or soy sauce. The chicken is then served with a side of pickled radish and is often accompanied by a cold beer.
Chimaek is known for its delicious and satisfying taste and is often enjoyed in social settings such as with friends or coworkers. It is a popular option for those who want to indulge in a tasty snack or meal while enjoying a cold beer.
Chimaek has become increasingly popular worldwide in recent years and can be found in many Korean restaurants and food stalls around the world. It is a must-try dish for anyone who loves fried chicken and beer and is a delicious and satisfying snack or meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Ganjang gejang (Soy sauce crab)
Soy sauce crab (ganjang gejang in Korean) is a popular Korean dish made with fresh raw crabs marinated in a soy sauce-based sauce. The dish is known for its rich and savory flavor and is often served as a side dish or appetizer.
To make soy sauce crab, fresh raw crabs are cleaned and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings for several hours or overnight. The crabs are then served cold and can be eaten as is or with a side of rice.
Soy sauce crab is a popular dish in Korea, especially among seafood lovers. It is believed to have health benefits such as being high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is often enjoyed in social settings such as with friends or family and is a great option for those who enjoy bold and flavorful seafood dishes.
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Soy sauce crab can be found in many Korean restaurants and seafood markets around the world and is a must-try dish for anyone who loves seafood and Korean cuisine.
