Beyond Kimchi: Exploring the Diversity of Korean Cuisine


Korean food has been widely popularized over the last years around the world, and we hear the word "kimchi" all the time when it comes to Korean cuisine. However, Korean food is so much more than just kimchi. Beyond the well-known fermented vegetables, there is a diversity of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that make Korean cuisine unique and exciting.

Korean cuisine is made up of many dishes that vary from region to region, with a wide variety of ingredients, cooking methods, and flavors. Whether you are a meat lover, a vegetarian, or a vegan, Korean cuisine has something for everyone.


Bulgogi

One of the most popular Korean dishes is bulgogi, a marinated beef that is grilled or pan-fried. The meat is marinated in a savory-sweet soy sauce marinade, mixed with garlic, sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil for at least an hour before it's cooked. To complete the dish, it's usually accompanied by rice and a variety of vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, and cucumber.


Bibimbap

Another favorite Korean dish is bibimbap, which means "mixed rice" in Korean. This dish consists of a bowl of steamed white rice topped with an array of vegetables, meat, and egg, plus a flavorful gochujang sauce. Bibimbap is a healthy and tasty option that everyone who tries it craves for more.


Tteokbokki 

Korean street food is also a big part of Korean cuisine that you should try if you ever visit Korea. If you're looking for something that is quick and on-the-go, tteokbokki is a must-try. Tteokbokki is made up of chewy rice cakes mixed with a spicy red sauce, which makes it one of the most popular street foods in Korea.


Bingsu

But Korean cuisine is not just about savory dishes. Koreans have a sweet tooth too, and it reflects in their desserts. One famous Korean dessert is bingsu, a shaved ice dessert that is topped with fruit, red beans, and condensed milk. There are many flavors of bingsu, but one of the most popular is the green tea bingsu.


Omija tea

When it comes to Korean drinks, tea and soju are some of the most popular choices. Korean tea is known to have medicinal properties, with different kinds of tea having varying health benefits. One of the most well-known teas in Korea is Omija tea, which is made from magnolia berries and is known for its sweetness and unique flavor.


Soju

Soju, on the other hand, can be considered the national alcohol of Korea. Soju is a distilled liquor that is made from rice, wheat, or barley, it's colorless, and has a smooth taste. You can drink it straight or mix it with other flavors such as fruit juice, soda, or even beer.


Korean cuisine is far beyond kimchi, and it's full of delicious and exciting dishes that cater to everyone. Korean cuisine is not only about savory dishes, but also about desserts and drinks that offer unique and impressive flavors. Next time you get the chance, take the opportunity to try Korean cuisine and explore its diverse and exciting food and drink options.

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