Unforgettable Adventures Are Waiting For You
Welcome to a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant and bustling streets of South Korea! In this blog post, we'll be taking you on a tour of Korean street food, a culinary world that's not just delicious but a cultural experience in itself. From sizzling hot tteokbokki to crispy twigim, we'll introduce you to 15 irresistible Korean street food delights that have captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and travelers alike. Get ready to explore the diverse flavors, rich traditions, and the sheer joy that comes with indulging in these savory, sweet, and sometimes spicy treats. Join us as we navigate the appetizing world of Korean street food, one delicious bite at a time!
1. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food, is a beloved dish known for its sweet and spicy flavor. The key ingredient in tteokbokki is garaetteok, cylindrical rice cakes that are chewy and dense. The sauce is made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste), gochugaru (red chili flakes), soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. Fish cakes (oden) and boiled eggs are often added for extra flavor and texture.
Tteokbokki is typically served in a communal pot or on a plate, with the chewy rice cakes coated in the flavorful sauce. It's a popular street food snack enjoyed by people of all ages. Tteokbokki can also be found in various forms, such as on skewers or as part of other dishes like hot pots. Tteokbokki is not only a delicious street food but also holds cultural significance. It is a nostalgic comfort food for many Koreans and has become a symbol of Korean snack culture. The combination of chewy rice cakes and the sweet-spicy sauce has made tteokbokki a favorite dish both within Korea and internationally, showcasing the global appeal of Korean cuisine.
2. Fish cakes
Fish cakes, known as "eomuk" (어묵) in Korean cuisine, are a versatile and widely enjoyed ingredient with a rich cultural history. Fish cakes come in various shapes and sizes. Common forms include flat sheets, rolls, and cylindrical or oval shapes. Some varieties may have added ingredients like vegetables or seaweed.
Fish cakes have a deep cultural significance in Korea, and their history dates back centuries. Originally introduced from Japan, fish cakes have become an integral part of Korean cuisine, symbolizing comfort, affordability, and adaptability. The affordability and versatility of fish cakes make them a popular choice for a variety of dishes, from street food to home-cooked meals. They also add a delightful chewy texture and absorb the flavors of the dishes they are cooked in, making them a favorite among both locals and those exploring Korean cuisine.
3. Hotteok
Hotteok (호떡) is a popular Korean street food, especially during the winter months. These sweet pancakes are filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and sometimes cinnamon.
Hotteok is often enjoyed hot off the griddle, and it's a delightful treat for those seeking a sweet and comforting snack. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey, sweet interior is a key characteristic that makes Hotteok beloved by locals and visitors alike. Hotteok is not only a delicious street food snack but also holds cultural significance. It is especially popular during the winter months and is often associated with festive occasions and celebrations. The warmth of the pancake and the sweet aroma of the filling contribute to the joy and comfort associated with this traditional Korean treat.
4. Mandu
Mandu refers to Korean dumplings, a versatile and popular dish enjoyed in various forms across Korea. Mandu holds cultural significance in Korea and is often associated with festive occasions, including holidays and celebrations. The act of making mandu, especially in a group setting, is a social and communal activity, and the dish itself is deeply rooted in Korean culinary traditions. There are many varieties of mandu which are as follows:
Gunmandu (군만두): These are deep-fried dumplings, resulting in a crispy exterior. They are often served as a snack or appetizer.
Mulmandu (물만두): Also known as manduguk, these dumplings are typically boiled and served in a clear broth. This variation is popular during the Lunar New Year as part of the tradition of eating dumplings for good luck.
Steamed Mandu: These dumplings are steamed, resulting in a softer texture. Steamed mandu can be enjoyed as a healthier alternative to fried or boiled varieties.
Wang Mandu (왕만두): Translating to "king dumplings," these are larger-sized dumplings that are more substantial and often filled with a heartier mixture of ingredients.
Jjin Mandu (찐만두): These are pan-fried dumplings, similar to potstickers, which have a crisp bottom and a soft top. The cooking method gives them a delightful contrast in texture.
Mandu is often served with a dipping sauce that typically includes soy sauce, vinegar, and sometimes a touch of sugar. Some variations may include chopped green onions, garlic, or sesame seeds for added flavor. Mandu holds cultural significance in Korea and is often associated with festive occasions, including holidays and celebrations. The act of making mandu, especially in a group setting, is a social and communal activity, and the dish itself is deeply rooted in Korean culinary traditions.
5. Soondae
Soondae is a traditional Korean sausage made primarily from pork blood, sweet rice, and glass noodles. Soondae is a more advanced Korean dish that may look a bit scary. and it is not a dish that everyone likes but it is definitely worth trying once. There are a few different soondae that you can try such as:
Makchang Soondae (막창 순대): This variety includes pork intestines and is grilled, offering a unique texture and flavor.
Sun Soondae (순 순대): A variation with a lighter color, sun soondae omits blood from the recipe, making it a milder option.
Maeun Soondae (매운 순대): Spicy soondae that is seasoned with gochugaru (red chili flakes) or gochujang (red chili paste) for a kick of heat.
Saeng Soondae (생 순대): Known as "fresh" soondae, this version is typically boiled and not steamed or grilled.
Soondae is commonly served in slices and can be enjoyed in various ways. It is often served with a dipping sauce made with salt and pepper or a mixture of salt and sesame oil. Soondae is frequently featured in street food stalls and restaurants, making it accessible to those seeking a unique culinary experience.
6. Dalgona
Maybe you have seen this snack in the series Squidgames, but Dalgona is a popular South Korean sweet treat known for its unique and distinctive appearance. It has gained widespread attention, particularly through social media, for its eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing presentation. You can choose between plain Dalgona or flavored Dalgona with flavorings such as vanilla, cinnamon, or other extracts to add a hint of additional taste.
Dalgona is often served as a standalone sweet snack or used as a decorative element in desserts and cakes. It is visually appealing and adds a touch of elegance to various culinary creations. Dalgona has roots in traditional Korean confectionery, showcasing the country's rich history of sweet treats. Crafting dalgona requires skill and precision in the caramelization process, making it a symbol of craftsmanship in Korean culinary traditions.
7. Bindaetteok
Bindaetteok, also known as mung bean pancakes, is a popular Korean dish made from ground mung beans with often vegetables and meat added. Bindaetteok is often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sometimes gochugaru or sesame oil. It can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Bindaetteok is a popular dish during various celebrations and festivals in Korea. It is particularly associated with the Korean holiday Chuseok, where families often gather to make and enjoy bindaetteok together. The dish represents the rich culinary tradition of utilizing mung beans in Korean cuisine and showcases the skill of creating a crispy and flavorful pancake.
8. Kwabaegi
Kwabaegi, also known as Korean twisted donuts, is a popular street food and snack in Korea. These twisted pastries are deep-fried to golden perfection and are a delightful treat. Some variations of the Korean donut may be coated in sugar, honey, or syrup after frying for an extra layer of sweetness. Kwabaegi is best enjoyed fresh and warm. The twisted pastries are often served plain, allowing the simplicity of the dough and the frying process to shine. They are a popular street food item and can also be found in bakeries and markets.
9. Gyeran-Ppang
Gyeran ppang, literally translated as "egg bread," is a popular Korean street food that combines the goodness of a fluffy, sweet bread with a savory egg. Gyeran ppang is typically served warm, straight from the oven. It is often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying snack, especially popular among students and those looking for a convenient street food option.
The combination of soft, sweet bread and a warm, savory egg is a comforting and familiar taste for many Koreans. It is often associated with the warmth of homemade treats. Gyeran ppang may evoke a sense of nostalgia for many Koreans, reminding them of their childhood or simple pleasures associated with street food culture.
10. Bungeo Ppang
Bungeo ppang, often referred to as "fish-shaped bread" or "Taiyaki" in Japanese, is a popular Korean street food known for its fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet or savory fillings. The traditional filling is red bean paste, modern variations may include fillings such as custard, chocolate, sweet potato, or even savory options like cheese and sausage.
Bungeo ppang is a staple in Korean street food culture. It's a popular and comforting snack enjoyed by people of all ages, especially during colder months. The fish shape of bungeo ppang is not only visually appealing but also holds cultural significance. In East Asian cultures, fish are considered symbols of good luck and abundance. During festivals and celebrations, especially around holidays like Lunar New Year or Chuseok, bungeo ppang becomes a festive treat enjoyed by families and friends.
11. Gun Goguma
Gun Goguma (군고구마) are roasted sweet potatoes prepared by baking whole sweet potatoes until they become tender and have a slightly caramelized exterior. They are often cooked in a hot oven or even open flames, giving them a delicious smoky flavor. The roasted potatoes can be coated in a sweet syrup, creating a shiny and sweet outer layer. To create a candied sweet potato, also known as Goguma Matang (고구마 맛탕).
Roasted sweet potatoes hold cultural significance in Korea, especially during the colder months. They are considered a healthy and warming snack, often sold by street vendors or in markets. The natural sweetness of the potatoes makes them a favorite among people looking for a nutritious and satisfying treat.
12. Sotteok Sotteok
Sotteok Sotteok (소떡소떡) refers to a popular Korean street food that combines two beloved snacks on a stick, Korean hotdogs and tteok (rice cake). This delightful fusion captures the essence of Korean street food culture, offering a delicious and convenient way to enjoy both savory and sweet flavors simultaneously. Depending on the vendor and personal preferences, the skewers may be topped with various condiments such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or even sugar for added sweetness.
13. Twigim
Twigim refers to a variety of Korean deep-fried snacks and street foods. The term "twigim" itself translates to "fried" in Korean. These snacks are often enjoyed as quick bites and are popular in street food markets. The most popular twigim is Twigim-Yachae (튀김야채) which are mixed vegetable fritters, where vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and onions are coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy.
Twigim is typically served hot and enjoyed as a quick and satisfying snack. Depending on the type of twigim, it may be accompanied by a dipping sauce such as soy sauce, spicy gochujang-based sauce, or a seasoned vinegar dipping sauce. Twigim is a vibrant and diverse category in Korean street food, offering a wide range of delicious fried snacks that cater to different tastes and preferences.
14. Korean Hotdog
Korean hotdogs, also known as "K-hotdogs" or simply "hotdogs," are a popular street food in South Korea. These hotdogs have gained international attention for their unique and innovative twists compared to traditional hotdogs. It has become a popular and trendy snack, especially among younger generations. Some of the most popular flavors are:
Regular Hotdog (핫도그): A sausage (usually a regular hotdog or a combination of hotdog and cheese) is coated in batter and deep-fried until golden brown.
Mozzarella Hotdog (모짜렐라 핫도그): In this variation, a stick of mozzarella cheese is wrapped around the hotdog before coating it in batter and frying. This creates a gooey and cheesy interior.
Potato Hotdog (감자 핫도그): The hotdog is coated with a layer of thinly sliced, spiral-cut potatoes before being fried, adding a crunchy texture.
After frying, the hotdogs are often rolled in various toppings such as sugar, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or even crushed chips, adding additional flavors and textures.
15. Korean fried chicken
Korean fried chicken, often referred to as "huraideu chikin" (후라이드 치킨) in Korean, is a beloved dish that has gained international recognition for its unique preparation and flavors.
One of the distinctive features of Korean fried chicken is the double-frying technique. The chicken is first fried at a lower temperature to cook the meat thoroughly, then it is fried at a higher temperature to achieve a crisp and golden exterior. Korean fried chicken is available in various flavors and sauces. Some popular ones include:
Original (후라이드): Plain fried chicken without sauce, seasoned with salt and pepper.
Yangnyeom (양념): Chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. Yangnyeom chicken can vary in spice levels.
Ganjang (간장): Fried chicken coated in a savory soy-based sauce, often slightly sweet.
Garlic (마늘): Chicken with a generous amount of garlic flavor, sometimes accompanied by a creamy garlic sauce.
Korean fried chicken is often enjoyed in a social setting, making it a popular choice for gatherings with friends or family. Many Korean fried chicken restaurants offer a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
This concludes our journey through the vibrant streets of South Korea, it's clear that the world of Korean street food is not merely a culinary exploration but an immersive cultural experience. Each bite is a portal to tradition, a taste of innovation, and a step into the heart of Korean cuisine. It's about the memories forged, the stories shared, and the joy found in the simple act of savoring each moment. So, whether you're exploring the bustling markets of Seoul or recreating these culinary wonders in your kitchen, the world of Korean street food awaits, ready to whisk you away on a culinary adventure you won't soon forget.