South Korea is not only renowned for its cultural beauty and technology but is also a haven for delicious spicy cuisine. There, spicy dishes are not just about flavor but are also a part of lifestyle and culinary identity.
For fans of Korean dramas, some of these dishes might be familiar from their favorite shows or even tried firsthand. Let's explore the diverse world of spicy cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds and bring tears of joy to your eyes in the land of Ginseng.
1. Kimchi
First and foremost, we cannot overlook the king of Korean spicy cuisine, Kimchi. Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented cabbage with spicy seasonings like chili powder, garlic, and ginger.
2. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, or spicy rice cake, is a favorite snack consisting of rice cakes cooked in a thick, spicy sauce. Usually served with odeng (fish cake) and eggs, this dish captivates with its tantalizing blend of spicy and sweet flavors.
3. Buldak
Buldak, also known as "fire chicken," is a chicken dish cooked with an intensely spicy sauce. Sometimes served with a layer of cheese to balance the heat, Buldak has become a culinary trend popular in Korea and beyond.
4. Jjamppong
Jjamppong is a spicy noodle soup dish with various seafood like squid, clams, and vegetables. The spicy and savory taste of the seafood broth makes this dish sought after, especially during the winter.
5. Yangnyeom Chicken
Yangnyeom Chicken is a fried chicken dish coated with a spicy and sweet sauce made from a mixture of gochujang sauce and various Korean spices. The tenderness of the chicken combined with the spiciness of the sauce makes this dish unforgettable.
6. Kimchi Jjigae
Kimchi Jjigae is a warm and spicy kimchi soup filled with chunks of meat, vegetables, and sometimes tofu. Having this soup in winter is both refreshing and warming.
7. Dakgalbi
Next, there's Dakgalbi, a chicken dish cooked with vegetables and spicy gochujang sauce. Typically made on a table grill, this enhances the dining experience, making it enjoyable and spicy.
8. Bibimbap
In South Korea, there's a mixed rice dish with vegetables, meat, egg, and gochujang sauce called Bibimbap. Although not always very spicy, you can add extra gochujang sauce to achieve the desired spiciness level.
9. Nakji Bokkeum
It turns out that squid or cuttlefish can be cooked with spicy and savory sauce, resulting in a dish called Nakji Bokkeum. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers with a strong taste for spice.
10. Maekjeok
Lastly, Maekjeok is a Korean-style spicy skewer made from beef or chicken coated with spicy sauce before grilling. The combination of spiciness and smokiness from the grill makes it a tempting dish.
From traditional dishes to modern creations, every bite is a journey into the rich flavors of Korea that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy the unforgettable spiciness in South Korea!
