Your first visit to Korea? Here's a guide on what to eat in a day

AKP STAFF

Are you embarking on your first journey to Korea? If so, you're in for an exceptional culinary adventure, as this vibrant country has something delightful in store for every palate. From quaint cafes serving delectable desserts to an array of unique and daring dishes like raw marinated crabs and live octopus, Korean cuisine is diverse and captivating. For those wrestling with the decision of what to savor first, let us guide you through a gastronomic day in Korea, showcasing some of the nation's most cherished eats.

An essential aspect of your culinary journey in Korea should include indulging in the widely popular and immensely beloved street food variety known as "bunshik" or "street/snack food." Renowned for its generous servings and budget-friendly prices, bunshik offers a range of hearty, flavorful dishes that truly encapsulate the essence of Korean comfort food.

One of the cornerstone dishes of bunshik is "tteokbokki," a spicy and sweet concoction of chewy rice cakes simmered in a robust gochujang (Korean red chili paste) based sauce. Often garnished with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and vegetables, this dish is a beloved staple enjoyed by people of all ages across Korea.

Another quintessential item in the bunshik category is "kimbap," a Korean-style sushi roll filled with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, pickled radish, spinach, carrot, and proteins like tuna, beef, or ham. Wrapped in a sheet of seaweed and sliced into bite-sized pieces, kimbap is both a convenient and nutritious option for those on the go.

"Omuk," or fish cake, is yet another popular choice within the bunshik realm. Typically served on skewers and simmered in a savory broth, these fish cakes are not only delicious but also provide a comforting warmth, especially during the colder months.

Lastly, "soondae," a unique Korean blood sausage made with a mixture of intestines, sweet potato noodles, and rice, offers a distinctive taste and texture that might be an acquired taste for some but is undoubtedly a beloved delicacy for many locals.

The diverse and flavorful street food culture in Korea, provides an array of options that are both satisfying and affordable. Whether you're navigating the bustling streets of Seoul or exploring the quieter alleys of a smaller city, the allure of bunshik and its comforting, delicious offerings are an integral part of the Korean culinary experience that should not be missed.

Following a delightful morning indulging in bunshik, you have a wide array of delectable Korean dishes to choose from for lunch. One popular option is "Bibimbap," a vibrant, mixed rice dish topped with an assortment of sautéed and seasoned vegetables, a protein source such as beef or chicken, a fried egg, and a generous dollop of spicy gochujang (Korean red chili paste). Bibimbap is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful ingredients, but it also offers a balanced and nutritious meal, satisfying both your taste buds and health needs.

For those craving something heartier, "Kimchi Jjigae," a robust and flavorful Korean stew, makes for a perfect choice. This comforting dish is made with fermented kimchi, tofu, vegetables, and usually pork or beef, all simmered together in a savory broth. The result is a deeply satisfying stew with layers of umami flavors, a bit of heat from the kimchi, and a comforting warmth that radiates with each spoonful.

Alternatively, if you find yourself exploring Korea during the hot summer, "Naengmyeon" could be an excellent option to cool down. This dish consists of thin, chewy buckwheat noodles served in a tangy iced broth or mixed with a spicy sauce. Topped with sliced cucumber, a boiled egg, and sometimes slices of Korean pear, Naengmyeon offers a refreshing and light meal option that is both flavorful and invigorating.

Korea's vibrant nightlife truly comes alive in the array of bustling barbecue joints scattered across the country, making it an essential experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. As the sun sets, numerous eateries begin to buzz with activity, drawing in crowds eager to indulge in the exquisite flavors of Korean BBQ.

One of the highlight dishes of this culinary adventure is "galbi," tender, marinated ribs that are grilled to perfection, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. "Samgyupsal," another crowd-pleaser, consists of thick, juicy slices of pork belly that are cooked at the table and often enjoyed with a dip in seasoned sesame oil.

Additionally, the menu often features "bulgogi," thinly sliced beef marinated in a flavorful soy sauce-based mixture, and "jaeyuk bokkeum," spicy stir-fried pork that packs a punch. These dishes not only provide a feast for the taste buds but also create a communal dining experience, as friends and family gather around the grill, cooking and sharing food together.

Paired with an assortment of banchan (side dishes) and perhaps a bottle of soju or makgeolli (traditional Korean alcoholic beverages), the Korean BBQ experience becomes a delightful symphony of flavors and textures, leaving an indelible mark on your palate.

Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, delving into the world of Korean BBQ under the neon lights of the city is a must-do activity that embodies the essence of Korean dining culture. It’s a unique, interactive culinary journey that not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a genuine taste of Korea's vibrant nightlife and warm hospitality.

However, the culinary journey doesn't end there; soups are an indispensable part of any Korean dinner experience. Besides the previous-mentioned Kimchi Jjigae, you have staples like Budae Jjigae, a savory and hearty stew that combines ingredients from traditional Korean cuisine and American army bases, and Gomtang, a rich and nourishing beef bone soup, all provide a warming embrace from the inside out. These soups are perfectly complemented by a simple bowl of steamed rice, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Amidst the savory feast, your taste buds might start yearning for a sweet finale, and Korea has a plethora of delightful desserts to offer. Classics like Hotteok, a delectable sweet pancake filled with a tantalizing mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, pan-fried to crispy perfection, are an absolute must-try. Additionally, with the arrival of autumn, Bbungappang makes its seasonal debut. These charming fish-shaped pastries, brimming with luscious red bean paste, offer a comforting and sweet end to your culinary adventure. Indulging in these traditional Korean sweets provides the perfect balance to a day of tasteful delights.