EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH SOUTH KOREA
Going on a culinary trip in South Korea is an immersive experience where tradition and innovation dance on your palate. South Korea encourages you to eat your way through a symphony of sensations that tells the tale of this lively and diverse country, from sizzling street food carts to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Photo by Giselle Herrera
Street Food: Begin your culinary odyssey by navigating the bustling street food markets that colour the corners of South Korean cities. Dive into the spicy world of tteokbokki, relish the crunch of odeng (fish cakes) on skewers, and savour the sweetness of hotteok, a delectable pancake filled with brown sugar and nuts. The lively atmosphere of Gwangjang Market in Seoul or Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan will tantalise your senses and leave you craving more.
The Jagalchi Fish Market is spread over two miles, with a large portion of it indoors. Here, guests may choose from fresh seafood while accompanied by their guide. Then they cook it in a local restaurant for lunch or supper. The market is well-known for the "Busan wives," a custom of women who, during the Korean War, worked as street vendors in Busan, selling whatever food or trinkets they could to support their families while their husbands were away fighting.
Photo by Himal Rana
BBQ Bliss: No journey through South Korea is complete without experiencing the joy of Korean barbecue (BBQ). Grill succulent marinated meats like bulgogi (thinly sliced beef) or galbi (short ribs) at your table. The interactive and communal nature of this dining experience adds a social charm to the feast. Seoul's vibrant districts like Gangnam and Itaewon are renowned for their BBQ havens.
Banchan Bonanza: Prepare your palate for the wonders of Banchan, an array of small side dishes served with rice. From pickled vegetables to savoury pancakes and spicy kimchi, banchan complements the main course and adds a delightful variety of flavours and textures to your meal. Embrace the generosity of Korean hospitality as these side dishes keep coming throughout your dining experience.
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Comforting Stews and Soups: Warm your soul with hearty Korean stews and soups. Slurp up the spicy goodness of kimchi jjigae, a fermented cabbage stew, or savour the comforting flavours of doenjang jjigae, a soybean paste soup. These dishes, often served bubbling hot in a shared pot, provide a heartwarming and nourishing experience.
Bibimbap Bliss: Bibimbap, a signature Korean dish, is a celebration of colours and flavours. A vibrant mix of vegetables, rice, and often a fried egg, bibimbap can be customized to suit your taste. The crispy rice at the bottom of the stone bowl, known as nurungji, adds a delightful crunch to this classic dish.
Seafood Spectacle: With its extensive coastline, South Korea boasts a seafood paradise that seafood enthusiasts won't want to miss. From the freshest sushi in Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market to the savoury delights of haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), coastal regions offer a symphony of flavours straight from the ocean to your plate.
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Sweet Endings: Cap off your culinary journey with South Korea's delectable desserts. Indulge in the chewy goodness of bingsu, a shaved ice dessert topped with sweet condiments like red beans or fruit. Treat yourself to hotteok filled with honey, cinnamon, and nuts, or venture into unique ice cream flavours like sweet potato or green tea.
South Korea's culinary scene is a tapestry of flavours, textures, and traditions that beckon every traveller to indulge. As you eat your way through the peninsula, you'll discover that every dish tells a story, and each bite is an invitation to savour the soul of a nation that loves, lives, and celebrates through its extraordinary cuisine. So, come hungry, embrace the culinary adventure, and let South Korea's flavours linger on your taste buds long after you've savoured the last bite.