Korean cuisine is a vibrant and diverse reflection of the country’s rich heritage. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and health benefits, Korean food has gained worldwide recognition in recent years. Rice, meat or seafood, and vegetables are essential to Korean meals.
Are you a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure? Look no further than Korea. Korean cuisine has taken the world by storm and for a good reason. It is delicious, diverse, and full of flavor. From iconic street food like Tteokbokki to the classic Bibimbap, Korean cuisine has something for everyone.
Here we will take a deep dive into Korean food culture and present you with our top 20 must-try popular foods in Korea that you can’t miss out on. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone just starting to explore the world of international cuisine, this list will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
What Are The Popular Food In Korea You Must Try?
Korean cuisine is popular for its bold flavors and use of fresh ingredients, making it a must-try for foodies. From street food to fine dining, the country offers various delicious dishes that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Tteokbokki is a spicy rice cake dish popular among locals and tourists, while Hotteok provides a sweet dessert option with cinnamon and brown sugar filling. Twigim, Eomuk, and Sundae are also popular street foods, each offering a unique flavor profile that will delight your palate. Here are 20 popular food in Korea you must try.
1. Tteokbokki
One of Korea’s most beloved street foods is Tteokbokki, made from chewy rice cakes and spicy sauce. It is a popular comfort food that warms you up on cold winter nights. Tteokbokki is customizable to suit different palates by adjusting the level of spiciness or adding various toppings like fish cakes, hard-boiled eggs, and scallions. You can find this delicious dish in many restaurants and street vendors throughout Korea, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors.
2. Hotteok
Hotteok is a popular Korean street food often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. These sweet, doughy pancakes are made from flour, yeast, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, filled with brown sugar syrup and chopped nuts. Hotteok has a crispy exterior and chewy interior, making for an indulgent treat. This Korean delicacy is frequently found at street vendors throughout Korea and has become a must-try food for tourists. Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, Hotteok is an excellent choice for anyone trying delicious Korean cuisine.
3. Twigim
Regarding popular Korean street food, Twigim is a must-try for anyone visiting Korea. This deep-fried delicacy consists of battered vegetables, seafood, or meat and is a staple snack in Korea. The batter used for Twigim is made with wheat flour, rice flour, corn starch, and other ingredients to create the perfect crispy texture. Common ingredients include shrimp, squid, fish cake, sweet potato, onion, and mushrooms. Served as an appetizer or snack at food stalls or traditional markets throughout Korea, Twigim is best enjoyed when freshly fried and paired with dipping sauces such as soy sauce or spicy gochujang sauce.
4. Eomuk
Eomuk, a Korean street food made from fish cake, is a must-try for anyone visiting Korea. This savory snack is often served on skewers and can be enjoyed plain or with dipping sauces. Eomuk can also be added to soups and stews for flavor and texture. You can find this delicious snack at outdoor markets and food stalls throughout Korea. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the unique flavors of Eomuk when exploring Korea’s vibrant street food culture.
5. Sundae
Sundae is a time-honoured Korean dish that dates back to the Joseon era and has since become an iconic street food. This dish is made by stuffing pig intestines with a mixture of sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and various seasonings. Sundae can be enjoyed individually as a snack or paired with spicy sauce or broth for an added kick. What makes sundae special is the unique combination of flavors and textures, which creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Trying sundaes is an absolute must for those who want to explore the diverse world of Korean cuisine.
6. Pepero
Pepero is a popular snack in Korea that has gained recognition all over the world. Like Japanese Pocky, Pepero consists of thin biscuit sticks coated with chocolate, caramel, or other flavours. The snack’s convenient packaging makes it easily portable and it comes in various flavors such as strawberry, almond, and green tea. Pepero Day celebrated on November 11th in Korea, is when friends and loved ones exchange Pepero as gifts. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick snack or giving it as a gift, Pepero is a delicious treat that everyone should try when visiting Korea.
7. Choco Pie
Choco Pie is one of the most popular snacks in Korea, loved by people of all ages. This delicious snack cake consists of two layers filled with marshmallows and coated in chocolate. The Lotte Corporation introduced it to Korea in the 1970s, and it has since become a beloved treat. People enjoy Choco Pie with tea or coffee, making it a perfect snack for a quick break during a busy day. With different variations like green tea, strawberry, and banana flavours emerging, Choco Pie is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
8. Orion Choco-Pie
The Orion Choco-Pie is a popular snack in Korea that has taken the world by storm. Introduced in 1974, this delicious treat consists of two layers of soft cake filled with marshmallows and coated in chocolate. You can enjoy it as a sweet indulgence with coffee or tea or as a dessert after a meal. Its popularity has transcended borders, with the snack being exported to over 60 countries worldwide. Today, Choco-Pie comes in many variations, such as green tea and strawberry flavors, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Korea.
9. Honey Butter Chips
Honey Butter Chips have become a sensation in Korea since their introduction in 2014. These potato chips coated with a sweet and savory honey butter seasoning are the perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors, with a crispy texture that makes them an irresistible snack. They can be found at various convenience stores and supermarkets throughout Korea, making them a popular choice for people on the go. Whether exploring local sights or simply relaxing at home, these delectable chips offer a taste of Korea’s unique food culture and are worth trying on your next trip.
10. Kancho Choco Biscuit
Kancho Choco Biscuit is a popular Korean snack that has captured the hearts of many foodies worldwide. With its chocolate filling, this crispy and sweet biscuit is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and crunchiness. It’s convenient to enjoy on the go or at home, making it a beloved snack for all ages. You can find various flavours of Kancho Choco Biscuits, from classic chocolate to green tea and strawberry, at most convenience stores and supermarkets in Korea. If you’re looking for a unique snacking experience or want to try something new, Kancho Choco Biscuit is worth a try.
11. Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a dish that embodies the essence of Korean cuisine. It’s healthy and delicious, with its complex flavors and textures. Bibimbap means “mixed rice,” as all the ingredients are mixed before eating. The dish typically comprises rice, vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, bean sprouts, spinach, mushrooms, and meat such as beef or chicken. People often serve kimchi as a side dish with every meal in Korean cuisine. With its vibrant colors and intricate flavors, bibimbap is an experience for the eyes and the taste buds that no foodie should miss out on while exploring Korea’s food culture.
12. Kimchi
Korean cuisine includes Kimchi as a staple and they often serve it as a side dish with every meal. This traditional Korean dish is made from fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage or radish, and has a unique tangy and spicy flavor from the fermentation process. What’s remarkable about kimchi is not only its taste but also its health benefits. It contains probiotics and antioxidants that can improve digestion and boost the immune system, making it an excellent addition to any diet. With so many varieties available, there’s a type of kimchi to suit everyone’s taste buds.
13. Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Marinated thinly sliced beef, grilled or stir-fried, makes for a mouthwatering meal. Its unique marinade recipe includes soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. You can serve bulgogi with rice and vegetables or use it as a filling for Korean-style tacos or sandwiches. Its delicious taste and versatility has gained immense popularity in Korea and worldwide. Don’t forget to add bulgogi to your must-try Korean food list.
14. Japchae
Japchae is a delicious Korean dish that’s sure to please any palate. Made with stir-fried glass noodles, vegetables, and meat (optional), Japchae is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a tasty and nutritious meal. Typically, people season the dish with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar, which gives it a unique, sweet, and savory flavor. You can customize Japchae to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or protein sources. Japchae will satisfy your hunger whether served as a side dish or main course.
15. Gimbap
Introducing Gimbap, a staple food in Korean cuisine similar to sushi but with a twist. Gimbap rolls rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood in sheets of dried seaweed to offer a balanced meal option that one can eat as a snack or on the go. This highly customizable dish allows you to add your favourite fillings like bulgogi, ham, eggs, and various vegetables.
Most Korean restaurants and convenience stores offer gimbap, which is a popular choice for picnics or lunch boxes due to its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, Gimbap is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds. So next time you’re exploring Korean cuisine, don’t forget to try out this delicious and nutritious dish.
16. Samgyetang
Samgyetang is a classic Korean dish perfect for combating the summer heat. This hearty soup features a whole chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, Korean ginseng, and other medicinal herbs. People have enjoyed Samgyetang for hundreds of years, believing it boosts the immune system, aids digestion, and prevents heat exhaustion. You can easily customize the dish to suit your individual tastes by adding vegetables or seasoning with spices like salt or pepper. It is also a delicious way to experience traditional Korean cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying this iconic dish during your visit to Korea.
17. Galbitang
You must try Galbitang, a beloved Korean soup known for its rich, savory flavor and tender meat. People often serve it with rice and side dishes such as kimchi and pickled vegetables on cold winter days because it is a popular comfort food. But beyond its delicious taste, Galbitang is also popular for its health benefits. Not only does this soup provide a high amount of protein and nutrients, but it can also aid in digestion and strengthen the immune system. So, if you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious dish to warm you up on a chilly day, try Galbitang.
18. Doenjang Jjigae
You should not miss Doenjang Jjigae, a traditional Korean soup. Made with fermented soybean paste and vegetables, it has a rich, savory flavor that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings. Whether made with beef, pork, or clams, the dish is always hearty and warming – making it the perfect comfort food on cold winter days. Doenjang Jjigae is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The fermented soybean paste contains probiotics and antioxidants, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty. Experience the unique flavors of Korea by adding Doenjang Jjigae to your must-try list.
19. Haemul Pa Jeon
For seafood lovers, Haemul Pa Jeon is a must-try when exploring the diverse flavors of Korean cuisine. This savory pancake made with seafood and vegetables is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. People can find this popular street food in Korea in many markets and restaurants. Vendors typically serve it as an appetizer or side dish alongside other Korean dishes such as Kimchi or Bulgogi. Once you try this delicious pancake, you’ll understand why foodies worldwide have made it so popular.
20. Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi Fried Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that has become increasingly popular in Korea and worldwide. People make this simple yet satisfying dish with cooked rice, kimchi, and vegetables and often top it with a fried egg. The sour and spicy flavor of kimchi pairs perfectly with the savory taste of rice, making this dish a favorite among foodies.
Besides being a tasty treat, Kimchi Fried Rice is also a great way to use leftover rice and kimchi. They make one of Korea’s most popular dishes using leftover kimchi. Adding meat or seafood according to your preference lets you easily customize this dish to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or an easy way to experiment with Korean cuisine, Kimchi Fried Rice is worth trying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What Is The Most Famous Food In Korea?
Kimchi is perhaps the most famous food in Korea, a spicy fermented vegetable dish. However, many other popular Korean foods exist, including bulgogi, bibimbap, and tteokbokki. Korean fried chicken has also gained popularity in recent years.
2.What Are The Top Foods In Korea?
There are many delicious foods to try in Korea. Still, some popular options include Korean BBQ (Beef, Pork, And Chicken), Spicy Kimchi (Pickled Cabbage), Bibimbap (A Rice Bowl With Vegetables, Meat, And Egg), Bulgogi, Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes), Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir-Fry), And Samgyetang (Chicken Soup With Ginseng).
3.What Is The Most Popular Korean Food In America?
Korean BBQ is one of the most popular Korean foods in America, but kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, has also gained popularity in recent years. Other top Korean dishes Americans enjoy include bibimbap, bulgogi, and Japchae.
4.What Is The Main Meal In Korea?
The main meal in Korea typically consists of rice, soup or stew, and several side dishes. Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of fermented ingredients, with popular dishes including Bibimbap, Bulgogi, Kimchi, And Tteokbokki.
5.What Are The Top South Korean Foods To Try?
If you want to try South Korean cuisine, there are several must-try dishes. Korean BBQ, including galbi and bulgogi, is a delicious and popular option. Kimchi, a spicy fermented vegetable dish, is a staple in Korean cuisine and can be found everywhere.
Conclusion
Korean cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Korean cuisine has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique flavors, healthy ingredients, and beautiful presentation. From spicy tteokbokki to savory bulgogi, there’s something for everyone. Kimchi is another staple in Korean cuisine and is served with almost every dish.
Whether you’re a fan of meat dishes like bulgogi or prefer vegetarian options like bibimbap, there’s no shortage of delicious Korean dishes. So why not explore this exciting culinary world and discover your new favorite dish? Who knows, you might plan a trip to Korea to taste one of these fantastic popular food in Korea, their country of origin.
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