If you’re a food lover looking to expand your culinary horizons, then get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant and diverse world of Korean cuisine. From fiery and flavorsome dishes to comforting and soul-soothing meals, this article will introduce you to a tantalizing Korean famous food list. Get ready to savor the deliciousness of iconic dishes like Bibimbap, Kimchi, Bulgogi, and more. So, fasten your seatbelt and prepare to indulge in a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving for more.
Korean Famous Food List.
Street Foods
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, also known as spicy rice cakes, is one of the most popular street foods in Korea. It consists of cylindrical rice cakes cooked in a spicy sauce made from gochujang, a fermented chili paste. The chewy texture of the rice cakes combined with the fiery flavor of the sauce creates a unique and addictive taste. Tteokbokki is often garnished with green onions, fish cakes, and sesame seeds, adding layers of flavor and texture to the dish. It is a perfect snack when you’re craving something spicy and satisfying on the go.
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Kimbap
Kimbap is a Korean version of sushi rolls and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It is made by rolling rice, seasoned with sesame oil and salt, along with various fillings such as vegetables, pickles, and meat or seafood, in a sheet of seaweed. The roll is then sliced into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to grab and eat on the streets. Kimbap is a versatile dish, and you can find a wide variety of fillings to suit your preferences. It’s a convenient and delicious snack that can be enjoyed anywhere.
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Hotteok
Hotteok is a sweet and doughy pancake filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts. This popular street food is typically served piping hot, straight off the griddle. The warm and gooey filling oozes out with each bite, creating a delightful explosion of flavors. Hotteok is a beloved winter treat in Korea, but you can find it year-round from street vendors. It’s a comforting and indulgent snack that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Pajeon
Pajeon, also known as Korean pancake, is a savory pancake made with a batter of eggs, flour, and scallions. Additional ingredients such as seafood, kimchi, or vegetables can be added to enhance the flavor and texture. Pajeon is cooked on a griddle until it becomes crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside. It is often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. Pajeon is a popular street food during festivals and gatherings, perfect for sharing and enjoying with friends.
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Soups and Stews
Samgyetang
Samgyetang is a nourishing chicken soup that is often consumed during the summer to combat heat and boost energy. The dish features a whole chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, and various herbs. The chicken is boiled until tender, creating a flavorful broth that is believed to have medicinal properties. Samgyetang is served piping hot and is often garnished with jujubes and chestnuts. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is both delicious and beneficial for your health.
Doenjang jjigae
Doenjang jjigae is a traditional Korean soybean paste stew that is a staple in Korean cuisine. The stew is made by simmering fermented soybean paste, vegetables, tofu, and sometimes meat or seafood in a flavorful broth. The combination of savory soybean paste with the umami flavors from the ingredients creates a rich and comforting dish. Doenjang jjigae is typically served with a side of rice and a variety of banchan, or side dishes. It is a popular choice for a hearty and nutritious meal.
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Kimchi jjigae
Kimchi jjigae is a spicy and tangy stew made with kimchi, pork, tofu, and other vegetables. It is a popular dish in Korea and is often enjoyed as a comforting and flavorful meal. The fermented kimchi gives the stew its characteristic sour and slightly spicy taste, while the pork adds depth and richness to the dish. Kimchi jjigae is typically eaten with a bowl of rice, and the combination of flavors creates a fulfilling and satisfying dining experience.
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Seolleongtang
Seolleongtang is a milky white ox bone soup that is known for its rich flavor and comforting qualities. The soup is made by boiling ox bones for several hours until the broth becomes thick and creamy. The result is a hearty and nourishing soup that is often served with slices of beef, green onions, and noodles. Seolleongtang is a popular choice for breakfast or lunch and is especially enjoyed during cold winter months. It provides warmth and comfort while nourishing your body with its nutritious properties.
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Barbecued Meats
Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a Korean barbecue dish made from thinly sliced marinated beef or pork. The meat is usually marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings to infuse it with flavor. It is then grilled over a hot flame, resulting in tender and juicy meat with a slightly sweet and savory taste. Bulgogi is often enjoyed wrapped in lettuce leaves and accompanied by various side dishes. It is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for gatherings and a must-try for meat lovers.
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Galbi
Galbi, also known as Korean-style short ribs, is a beloved barbecue dish that is sure to satisfy your meat cravings. The ribs are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and other seasonings to enhance their natural flavors. They are then grilled to perfection, resulting in succulent and flavorful meat with a slight charred exterior. Galbi is typically enjoyed with a side of rice and various banchan. The combination of tender meat, rich marinade, and smoky flavor makes galbi a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
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Samgyeopsal
Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean barbecue dish made from thick slices of pork belly. The meat is grilled at the table, allowing you to enjoy it while it’s hot and sizzling. The cuts of pork belly are known for their layers of fat, which melt during cooking and create a deliciously fatty and flavorful bite. Samgyeopsal is typically wrapped in lettuce leaves along with garlic, kimchi, and other condiments. The combination of the crispy edges and tender meat creates a satisfying and indulgent experience.
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Ddeokbokki
Ddeokbokki, which was mentioned earlier as a street food, also has a barbecued meat variation. In this version, the spicy rice cakes are cooked with sliced beef, creating a delicious fusion of flavors. The chewy texture of the rice cakes pairs well with the juicy and tender beef, and the spicy sauce ties everything together. Ddeokbokki with barbecued meat is a popular choice for those who crave the fiery and savory taste of the classic street food but also want to enjoy the richness of grilled meat.
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Seafood Dishes
Haemul pajeon
Haemul pajeon, or seafood pancake, is a savory pancake made with a batter of eggs, flour, scallions, and various seafood such as shrimp, squid, and clams. The ingredients are mixed together and then pan-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Haemul pajeon is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce, adding a tangy and salty element to the dish. This popular seafood dish is perfect for sharing and is enjoyed for its combination of crispy texture and seafood flavors.
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Jjajang seafood noodles
Jjajang seafood noodles is a popular Korean-Chinese dish that combines Korean black bean sauce, seafood, and noodles. The dish features thick, chewy noodles that are stir-fried with a rich and savory black bean sauce and a mix of seafood like shrimp, squid, and mussels. The earthy flavors of the black bean sauce and the freshness of the seafood create a harmonious blend of tastes. Jjajang seafood noodles are often enjoyed with pickled radish, adding a tangy and refreshing element to the dish.
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Grilled mackerel
Grilled mackerel, or godeungeo gui, is a classic Korean seafood dish that is loved for its simplicity and delicious taste. The fresh mackerel is seasoned with salt and grilled until the skin becomes crispy and the flesh turns tender and flaky. The natural flavors of the fish are enhanced by the grilling process, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. Grilled mackerel is often served with a side of rice and various banchan, providing a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Raw octopus
Raw octopus, or sannakji, is a unique and popular dish in Korea’s seafood cuisine. Sannakji involves eating live octopus that is cut into small pieces and served immediately. The pieces of octopus are usually still squirming on the plate, creating a thrilling and unforgettable dining experience. The texture of raw octopus is chewy and slightly crunchy, and it is often enjoyed dipped in a sauce made from sesame oil and soy sauce. Sannakji is not for the faint of heart but is a must-try for adventurous food enthusiasts.
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Rice Dishes
Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a famous Korean rice dish that is known for its vibrant colors and harmonious combination of flavors. The dish is made by arranging various sautéed vegetables, meat, and an egg on top of a bed of steamed rice. It is then mixed together with spicy gochujang sauce, creating a delicious blend of textures and tastes. Bibimbap is often topped with sesame seeds and served in a hot stone pot, which keeps the rice crispy and warm. It is a versatile and customizable dish that can be tailored to your personal taste preferences.
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Jajangmyeon
Jajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese dish that features noodles topped with a thick and savory black bean sauce. The noodles are usually made from wheat flour and have a chewy texture that complements the rich sauce. The black bean sauce is made by stir-frying diced pork, onions, and black bean paste until fragrant and well-cooked. Jajangmyeon is often garnished with cucumbers and enjoyed with a side of yellow pickled radish. It is a comforting and filling dish that is loved by both locals and visitors.
Kimchi fried rice
Kimchi fried rice, or kimchi bokkeumbap, is a delicious and quick meal that can be enjoyed anytime. The dish is made by stir-frying cooked rice with kimchi, along with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood. The combination of the tangy and spicy kimchi with the savory flavors of the other ingredients creates a satisfying and comforting dish. Kimchi fried rice is often topped with a fried egg and garnished with chopped green onions. It is a popular choice for a quick and flavorful meal.
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Kimbap
Kimbap was mentioned earlier as a street food, but it is also a popular choice for a rice dish. Kimbap is often enjoyed as a light meal or a snack and is made by rolling rice, seasoned with sesame oil and salt, along with various fillings, in a sheet of seaweed. The rolls are then sliced into bite-sized pieces, making them easy to eat and share. Kimbap can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients like pickled radish, carrots, cucumber, and ham. It is a versatile and convenient rice dish that is loved for its portability and delicious flavors.
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Snacks and Desserts
Bingsu
Bingsu is a popular Korean dessert that is perfect for a hot summer day. It consists of shaved ice topped with various sweet toppings. The most common bingsu flavor is patbingsu, which features sweet red bean paste, condensed milk, and other ingredients like fruit, rice cake, or ice cream. Bingsu provides a refreshing and cooling sensation, and the combination of textures and flavors makes it an indulgent treat. It is often enjoyed as a shared dessert, making it a popular choice for gatherings and outings.
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Hotteok
Hotteok was mentioned earlier as a street food and also has a place in the snacks and desserts category. This sweet and doughy pancake is filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts. The warm and gooey filling creates a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior. Hotteok is a comforting and satisfying snack that is loved by Koreans of all ages. It is often enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a perfect treat for chilly afternoons or lazy weekends.
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Jeonbokjuk
Jeonbokjuk, or abalone porridge, is a popular Korean dish that is often enjoyed as a snack or light meal. The porridge is made by simmering rice with abalone, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish. Abalone is a prized ingredient in Korean cuisine and is known for its delicate and slightly chewy texture. Jeonbokjuk is often garnished with diced abalone, green onions, and sesame oil, adding a burst of flavors to the dish. It is a nutritious and comforting option that is perfect for those seeking a light yet satisfying meal.
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Danpatjuk
Danpatjuk is a sweet red bean porridge that is enjoyed as a traditional Korean dessert. The porridge is made by simmering red beans with water and sugar until they become soft and creamy. The result is a warm and comforting dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions or the cold winter months. Danpatjuk is typically garnished with chopped nuts, sesame seeds, and sometimes rice cakes, adding crunch and texture to the dish. It is a popular dessert that is loved for its simplicity and comforting qualities.
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Noodles
Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean noodle dish made from sweet potato glass noodles stir-fried with various vegetables and sometimes meat. The noodles have a unique texture that is both chewy and slippery, providing a delightful mouthfeel. Japchae is flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings, creating a savory and slightly sweet taste. The colorful assortment of vegetables adds freshness and crunch to the dish. Japchae is often enjoyed as a side dish or a main course and is a staple in Korean celebrations and gatherings.
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Naengmyeon
Naengmyeon is a refreshing and cold noodle dish that is perfect for beating the summer heat. The dish features thin, chewy buckwheat noodles served in an icy broth made from beef or dongchimi, a radish water kimchi. Naengmyeon is typically garnished with sliced cucumbers, pickled radish, boiled egg, and sometimes thin slices of beef or seafood. The combination of the cold, chewy noodles and the chilled broth creates a revitalizing and satisfying dish. Naengmyeon is a popular choice for a light lunch or dinner during the hot summer months.
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Rabokki
Rabokki is a fusion dish that combines the flavors of ramen noodles and tteokbokki. Ramen noodles and rice cakes are cooked in a spicy sauce made from gochujang, resulting in a dish that is both fiery and comforting. The chewy texture of the rice cakes pairs well with the soft and slippery noodles, creating an interesting contrast. Rabokki is often garnished with green onions, fish cakes, and sesame seeds, adding extra flavors and textures to the dish. It is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds in one bowl.
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Kalguksu
Kalguksu, or knife-cut noodles, is a popular Korean noodle dish that features handmade wheat flour noodles served in a hot and savory broth. The noodles are thick and chewy, making them satisfying and comforting to eat. Kalguksu is often garnished with slices of meat, zucchini, mushrooms, and green onions, adding a variety of flavors and textures to the dish. The rich and flavorful broth, combined with the chewy noodles, creates a hearty and delicious meal. Kalguksu is a beloved comfort food in Korea, especially during the colder months.
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Porridges
Juk
Juk is a traditional Korean rice porridge that is often enjoyed as a comforting and nourishing meal. The porridge is made by simmering rice with water until it becomes soft and thick, resulting in a smooth and creamy dish. Juk can be made plain or with various ingredients such as chicken, beef, or seafood. It is often served with small side dishes like kimchi, pickles, or roasted seaweed. Juk is particularly consumed during times of illness or when someone needs a gentle and easy-to-digest meal.
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Kongbiji juk
Kongbiji juk is a type of porridge made from ground soybeans. The soybeans are soaked, ground, and then cooked with water until they turn into a smooth and creamy texture. Kongbiji juk is often enjoyed as a vegetarian option and is known for its rich and nutty flavors. The porridge is typically served with a garnish of sesame oil, sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and sometimes a side of kimchi. Kongbiji juk is a comforting and nutritious choice that is enjoyed for its unique taste and texture.
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Patjuk
Patjuk, or red bean porridge, is a traditional Korean dish that is often consumed during special events like weddings or Lunar New Year. The porridge is made by boiling red beans with water and sugar until they become mushy and thick. The result is a smooth and sweet dish with a vibrant red color. Patjuk is often garnished with small glutinous rice cakes, known as tteok, and served with various side dishes. It is a celebratory dish that is loved for its festive appearance and the nostalgic flavors it evokes.
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Hobakjuk
Hobakjuk, or pumpkin porridge, is a comforting and delicious dessert that is enjoyed for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. The porridge is made by boiling pumpkin with water and sugar until it becomes soft and smooth. The addition of rice flour helps to thicken the porridge and give it a slightly sticky consistency. Hobakjuk is often garnished with roasted pine nuts and cinnamon powder, adding a nutty and aromatic flavor to the dish. It is a popular choice for dessert or a light snack and is loved for its comforting qualities.
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Pancakes
Buchimgae
Buchimgae, or Korean pancake, is a savory pancake made from a batter consisting of flour, eggs, and various ingredients like seafood, vegetables, or kimchi. The batter is pan-fried until it becomes golden brown, resulting in a crispy and flavorful pancake. Buchimgae is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce, adding a tangy and salty element to the dish. It is a popular choice for a snack or an appetizer and is enjoyed for its versatility and delicious taste.
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Kimchijeon
Kimchijeon, also known as kimchi pancake, is a savory pancake made with a batter of flour, eggs, and chopped kimchi. The batter is mixed together with kimchi and then pan-fried until it becomes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Kimchijeon is often garnished with chopped green onions and served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. It is a popular choice for a quick and flavorful snack or as a side dish to accompany a Korean meal.
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Dongnae pajeon
Dongnae pajeon is a regional specialty pancake from the Dongnae district in Busan, South Korea. It is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and scallions and is pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. Dongnae pajeon is known for its generous portion of scallions, which give the pancake a unique and refreshing flavor. It is often enjoyed with a savory soy-based dipping sauce, adding an extra layer of umami to the dish. Dongnae pajeon is a must-try for those visiting Busan and is loved for its simplicity and delicious taste.
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Gamjajeon
Gamjajeon, or potato pancake, is a popular Korean pancake made from grated potatoes mixed with flour, eggs, and sometimes other ingredients like onions or carrots. The mixture is pan-fried until it becomes crispy and golden brown, resulting in a flavorful and comforting pancake. Gamjajeon is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream, adding a tangy and creamy element to the dish. It is a beloved snack or side dish that is enjoyed for its hearty and satisfying qualities.
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Hometown Specialties
Jeonju bibimbap
Jeonju bibimbap is a regional variation of the famous Korean dish that originates from the city of Jeonju. It features the same components of bibimbap, including a variety of sautéed vegetables, meat, and an egg on top of a bed of steamed rice. However, Jeonju bibimbap is known for its special addition of gochujang, the spicy chili paste, and the use of kongnamul, or bean sprouts. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and flavorful dish that is loved by the locals. Jeonju bibimbap is often garnished with sesame oil and served in a brass bowl, which helps to retain heat and enhance the flavors.
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Andong jjimdak
Andong jjimdak is a regional specialty from the city of Andong, known for its delicious and hearty flavors. It is a braised chicken dish that is cooked with various ingredients such as vegetables, noodles, and soy sauce. The chicken is simmered in a flavorful broth until it becomes tender and is then served with the accompanying ingredients. Andong jjimdak is often enjoyed as a shared meal, with large portions and generous servings. The dish is loved for its rich flavors and comforting qualities, making it a must-try when visiting the city of Andong.
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Gyeongju bread
Gyeongju bread is a popular snack that originated from the city of Gyeongju, a historical and cultural hub in South Korea. The bread is made from a sweet dough filled with a variety of fillings such as red bean paste, custard, or chocolate. The most common and traditional filling is red bean paste, which provides a sweet and slightly savory taste. Gyeongju bread is typically shaped like a small muffin and has a soft and fluffy texture. It is a beloved snack among locals and tourists alike and is often enjoyed while strolling through the streets of Gyeongju.
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Chuncheon dakgalbi
Chuncheon dakgalbi is a regional specialty from the city of Chuncheon, known for its spicy and flavorful taste. It is a stir-fried chicken dish that is marinated in a spicy gochujang sauce along with various vegetables like cabbage, sweet potato, and onions. The dish is cooked on a large griddle at the table, allowing you to enjoy the sizzling and aromatic flavors. Chuncheon dakgalbi is often served with a side of rice and kimchi, adding a balanced and satisfying element to the meal. It is a popular choice for a delicious and spicy dining experience in Chuncheon.
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