Korea Food Must-Try Dishes for an Unforgettable Trip
Korea offers a wide variety of delicious foods, from traditional dishes to street food. Experiencing Korean cuisine is a must when visiting the country. Korean food boasts a deep history and rich flavors, making it best enjoyed firsthand.
To make your trip even more memorable, here are some must-try dishes that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Jjajangmyeon – Korea’s Most Beloved Black Bean Noodles
- Jjajangmyeon is a Korean-Chinese dish that has become a comfort food favorite in Korea. It consists of thick wheat noodles topped with a rich, slightly sweet black bean sauce made with stir-fried pork and vegetables.
This dish is widely enjoyed and is particularly famous on “Black Day” (April”Black Day” (April 14), when singles gather to eat jjajangmyeon together.
2. Dakgalbi – Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Vegetables
- Dakgalbi is a spicy stir-fried chicken dish marinated in gochujang (Korean red chili paste) and cooked with cabbage, sweet potatoes, rice cakes, and perilla leaves on a large iron pan. It’s a popular group meal, oleftover sauce with rice to make fried rice, which is a must-try.
3. Sundae – Korean-Style Blood Sausage
- Sundae is a unique and traditional Korean dish made by stuffing pig intestines with glass noodles, pork blood, and various seasonings, then steaming them. It has a chewy texture and a mild, savortteokbokki sauce or simply seasoned with salt. A popular variation, sundae stir-fry (sundae bokkeum), features stir-fried sundae with vegetables and a spicy sauce.
4. Bossam – Steamed Pork Wraps
- Bossam is a delicious Korean dish featuring thinly sliced, tender steamed pork belly served with kimchi, fresh garlic, spicy radish salad, and ssamjang (soybean paste sauce). The meat is wrapped in lettuce or napa cabbage, creating a flavorful and satisfying bite. Bossam pairs exceptionally well with makgeolli (Korean rice wine) or soju, making it a popular dish to enjoy with friends.
5. Sundubu Jjigae – Spicy Soft Tofu Stew
- Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy, flavorful stew made with soft tofu, red chili oil, seafood or pork, and a raw egg cracked into the steaming broth. The soup has a rich, deep taste and is often served boiling hot in an earthenware pot. It is typically eaten with a bowl of rice and is especially comforting on a cold day. The combination of silky tofu and spicy broth makes this dish an absolute must-try.
Korea is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of unique and delicious dishes. From street food to traditional meals, experiencing Korean cuisine will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.
However, before you travel to Korea, don’t forget to apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization). Without K-ETA, you may be denied boarding for your flight. Apply in advance and get ready to enjoy the best food Korea has to offer!
