Explore South Korea: Must-try Korean Street Food
Explore the must-try Korean street foods in our guide.
Are you ready to dive into the vibrant and mouth-watering world of Korean street food? If you’re a foodie at heart, South Korea’s bustling street food scene is an adventure you don’t want to miss. With a variety of flavors, textures, and unique dishes, there’s something for everyone. In this post, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some must-try Korean street foods that will tantalize your taste buds.
Table of Contents
1. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki, also known as spicy rice cakes, is a beloved Korean street food. These chewy rice cakes are drenched in a thick, spicy-sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste). You can’t walk past a street food stall without catching a whiff of this iconic dish.
Tip: For a perfect bite, pair your tteokbokki with some eomuk (fish cakes) and a boiled egg.
2. Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)
Craving something sweet? Hotteok is the answer. These Korean sweet pancakes are filled with a delicious mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped peanuts. When you bite into a freshly made hotteok, the gooey, sugary filling oozes out, making every bite a delightful experience.
Tip: Enjoy hotteok during the colder months when the warmth of the pancake is extra comforting.
3. Gimbap (Korean Sushi Rolls)
Gimbap is often compared to sushi, but it’s a unique Korean twist on the concept. Rolled in seaweed and filled with rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish, gimbap is a perfect on-the-go snack. The flavors are mild yet incredibly satisfying.
Recommendation: Try different variations like tuna, beef, or vegetable gimbap to find your favorite.
4. Eomuk (Fish Cakes)
Eomuk, or Korean fish cakes, are a common sight at street food stalls. These savory treats are skewered and served in a hot broth. They come in various shapes and sizes, often with different seasonings and fillings.
Tip: Dip your eomuk in a bit of soy sauce or mustard for an extra kick.
5. Bungeoppang (Fish-shaped Pastry)
Don’t be fooled by the name—bungeoppang has nothing to do with fish! These adorable fish-shaped pastries are filled with sweet red bean paste. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they make for a delightful dessert.
Recommendation: If you’re not a fan of red bean paste, look for variations filled with custard or chocolate.
6. Dakkochi (Chicken Skewers)
For meat lovers, dakkochi, or chicken skewers, are a must-try. These skewers are grilled to perfection and brushed with a savory-sweet glaze. Each bite is juicy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.
Tip: Don’t miss out on the spicy version if you can handle the heat!
7. Jajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles)
Although typically a sit-down dish, you can sometimes find jajangmyeon at street food markets. These noodles are coated in a rich, savory black bean sauce and often served with diced pork and vegetables.
Recommendation: Share a bowl with a friend, as the portions can be quite generous.
8. Twigim (Korean Tempura)
Twigim refers to a variety of deep-fried snacks, similar to tempura. You can find everything from vegetables to shrimp, and even stuffed peppers. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, twigim is the ultimate comfort food.
Tip: Mix and match different types of twigim for a fun and satisfying snack.
9. Korean Corn Dogs
Korean corn dogs take the classic corn dog to a whole new level. These battered and deep-fried hot dogs are often coated with sugar and sometimes even have mozzarella cheese inside. They’re a perfect blend of sweet and savory.
Recommendation: Try the variations with potatoes or ramen noodles on the outside for an extra crunch.
10. Patbingsu (Shaved Ice Dessert)
If you’re visiting Korea in the summer, patbingsu is a refreshing treat you can’t miss. This shaved ice dessert is topped with sweet red beans, condensed milk, fruit, and sometimes ice cream. It’s the perfect way to cool down and enjoy a sweet treat.
Tip: Look for stalls that offer creative toppings like mochi or green tea ice cream.
Ready to Travel?
Whether you’re a spicy food lover or have a sweet tooth, there’s something for everyone. Next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Korea, give these delicious treats a try! Happy eating! 🇰🇷🍚
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FAQ: Korean Street Food
Q: Is Korean street food spicy?
While some Korean street foods like tteokbokki can be quite spicy, there are plenty of non-spicy options like gimbap and hotteok.
Q: Is Korean street food safe to eat?
Yes, Korean street food is generally safe to eat. Vendors take great care in preparing their food, and it’s usually made fresh on the spot.
Q: Can I find vegetarian options in Korean street food?
Absolutely! Dishes like vegetable gimbap, hotteok, and some types of twigim are perfect for vegetarians.
Q: What’s the best time to explore Korean street food?
Street food is available year-round, but certain treats like hotteok are more popular in the winter, while patbingsu is perfect for summer.
Q: How much does Korean street food cost?
Korean street food is quite affordable, with most items ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 KRW (about $1 to $5 USD).
