Korean cuisine is gaining global recognition for its bold flavors, variety, and health benefits. Currently, more people are falling in love with Korean flavors. If you haven't tried these 10 amazing Korean dishes, now is the perfect time to explore the world of Korean cuisine!
10 of the well-known and delicious Korean dishes that are gaining international attention.
1. Kimchi – The Signature Fermented Dish of Korea
Kimchi is Korea’s most famous fermented dish, made from napa cabbage or radish with a mix of red pepper powder, garlic, ginger, and salted seafood. The fermentation process enhances its unique umami flavor and packs it with probiotics, making it a superfood for gut health. Kimchi has inspired various fusion dishes such as kimchi fried rice, kimchi pancakes, and kimchi stew, making it an essential part of Korean cuisine worldwide.
2. Bulgogi – Sweet and Savory Korean BBQ
Bulgogi is thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce mixture, then grilled or stir-fried. The combination of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and pear juice gives it a rich and juicy taste. Bulgogi is widely popular in Korean BBQ restaurants and is often used in bulgogi burgers, tacos, and pizzas, adding a Korean twist to global fast food.
3. Bibimbap – A Nutritious and Balanced Meal
Bibimbap is a colorful dish consisting of steamed rice topped with assorted vegetables, beef, egg, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). The ingredients are mixed together before eating, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Popular variations include Jeonju Bibimbap, known for its high-quality toppings, and Dolsot Bibimbap, served in a hot stone bowl for extra crispiness. Bibimbap is also a favorite among vegetarians when made without meat.
4. Samgyeopsal – Grilled Pork Belly with Sides
Samgyeopsal, or grilled pork belly, is one of Korea’s most popular BBQ dishes. The thick, juicy pork slices are grilled at the table and eaten with ssam (lettuce wraps), garlic, dipping sauces, and kimchi. It’s a social dining experience, often enjoyed with soju, a Korean alcoholic beverage. The crispy tender texture makes it a favorite for meat lovers.
5. Tteokbokki – Spicy and Chewy Rice Cakes
Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food made of chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce. It’s often served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and green onions. Modern variations include cheese tteokbokki and cream tteokbokki, making it popular among spice lovers and those who enjoy rich flavors.
6. Japchae – Stir-Fried Glass Noodles with Vegetables
Japchae is a stir-fried noodle dish made from sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon), beef, and various vegetables. It is seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar, giving it a slightly sweet and savory taste.
Japchae is commonly served at Korean celebrations and holidays and is enjoyed both as a side dish and a main course.
7. Jjajangmyeon – Black Bean Noodles
Jjajangmyeon is a noodle dish covered in a rich, savory black bean sauce made from chunjang (fermented black soybean paste), pork, and vegetables. Originally inspired by Chinese cuisine, jjajangmyeon has become a staple Korean comfort food, especially enjoyed on Black Day (April 14th), a day for singles to eat jjajangmyeon together.
8. Sundubu Jjigae – Spicy Soft Tofu Stew
Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy Korean stew made with silky soft tofu, vegetables, seafood or meat, and a gochugaru (red pepper) broth. It is served boiling hot and often topped with a raw egg for extra richness. This dish is perfect for cold weather and is known for its comforting and hearty flavors.
9. Korean Fried Chicken – Crispy and Flavorful
Korean fried chicken is extra crispy and juicy. It comes in various flavors, from classic soy garlic to spicy gochujang glaze. Unlike American fried chicken, Korean fried chicken is often served with pickled radish and beer (chimaek, a popular chicken and beer combo). It’s a must-try dish for chicken lovers.
10. Gimbap – Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls
Gimbap is Korea’s version of sushi, made with rice, vegetables, egg, and sometimes meat or seafood, all wrapped in seaweed. Unlike sushi, gimbap is seasoned with sesame oil instead of vinegar, giving it a nutty flavor. It’s a popular on-the-go snack and comes in many variations like tuna gimbap, bulgogi gimbap, and kimchi gimbap. Also, Gimbap is a good combination with Tteokbokki.