It’s not every day you have the luxury to prepare a fresh, home-cooked meal. Often, we’re running out the door, with little time to prep something nutritious. But if you’re into meal prepping, bring the taste of Korea to your table with these easy-to-make banchans (Korean side dishes). Each dish adds unique flavors and textures to any meal, making it both satisfying and convenient.

1. Jang Jorim

Jang jorim is a braised beef side dish cooked in savory soy sauce. While it requires a bit of cooking time, it’s one of the simplest banchans to make and adds a deeply satisfying taste to your meal. For an extra protein boost, throw in a few boiled eggs!

2. Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)

Spicy cucumber salad, or oi muchim, is a crunchy, refreshing dish that’s been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries. Slice cucumbers into your desired shape, season with salt, soy sauce, gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), sesame oil, and garlic. This vibrant banchan only gets more flavorful as it chills in the fridge.

3. Mu Saengchae (Spicy Radish Salad)

Mu saengchae is a spicy radish salad that captures the essence of kimchi without the wait. This banchan is quick, fresh, and delivers a satisfyingly crisp, spicy flavor.

4. Kongnamul Muchim (Seasoned Bean Sprouts)

A classic in Korean cuisine, kongnamul muchim is found at almost every Korean restaurant. With its nutty sesame flavor and crisp texture, this bean sprout dish is easy to prepare. Boil the bean sprouts, then season with sesame oil, sesame seeds, and green onions for a simple yet flavorful side.

5. Kongjang (Soy-Glazed Black Beans)

Kongjang is a protein-packed banchan that’s perfect for meal prep, featuring soy-glazed black beans. Braised slowly, it has a sweet and savory taste that’s rich and filling, ideal for a balanced diet.

6. Kkaennip Jangajji (Pickled Perilla Leaves)

Perilla leaves add a unique herbal flavor to any Korean meal. Eaten fresh, with rice, or pickled for a tangy twist, kkaennip jangajji makes a fantastic addition to your meal prep, adding depth and aroma to your banchan selection.