“Eat Like a Star: Popular Foods Featured in K-Dramas”
Have you ever found your mouth watering while watching Korean cuisine featured in Korean dramas? Here are 10 Korean foods frequently seen in Korean dramas, which are also beloved in the daily lives of Koreans.
Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
- Featured in: Many K-dramas as a comfort food during summer.
- Features: A whole young chicken filled with garlic, rice, jujube, and ginseng. It’s believed to replenish health and vitality.
- Where to Eat: Insadong, Seoul, where traditional Korean restaurants serve authentic Samgyetang.
The Essence of Samgyetang
Samgyetang, at its core, is a simple yet profound dish. It consists of a whole young chicken, stuffed with glutinous rice, and simmered in a broth enriched with Korean ginseng, jujube, garlic, and various medicinal herbs. This concoction is believed to replenish energy, boost stamina, and combat the exhaustive effects of summer heat, adhering to the principle of “yiyeol chiyeol” (이열치열), which suggests fighting heat with heat.
Features of Samgyetang
The magic of Samgyetang lies in its balance – the gentle bitterness of the ginseng harmonizing with the savory depth of the chicken broth, creating a nourishing elixir that rejuvenates the weary. Each ingredient is meticulously chosen for its health benefits, making Samgyetang much more than a meal; it’s a holistic experience.
Where to Eat Samgyetang in Insadong
Insadong, with its traditional tea houses, artisan shops, and quaint eateries, is home to some of Seoul’s most authentic Samgyetang restaurants. Among them, Tosokchon Samgyetang stands out, not just for its rich and aromatic Samgyetang but also for its traditional Korean ambiance. Another notable mention is Baekje Samgyetang, renowned for its use of organic ingredients and age-old recipes.
How to Get to Insadong
Insadong is conveniently located in the Jongno-gu district of Seoul, making it easily accessible via public transport:
- By Subway: The closest subway station is Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 6. From there, Insadong is just a short walk away, inviting you to explore its cultural and culinary delights.
- By Bus: Numerous bus routes serve the Jongno-gu area. Look for buses heading to Anguk Station or the Jongno Police Station, both of which are in close proximity to Insadong.
Jjajangmyeon (Black Bean Sauce Noodles)
- Featured in: “Coffee Prince,” “Wok of Love”
- Features: Thick noodles covered in a hearty, savory black bean sauce with diced pork and vegetables.
- Where to Eat: Incheon’s Chinatown is famous for its Jjajangmyeon.
The Essence of Jjajangmyeon
Jjajangmyeon’s magic lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. The dish features thick wheat noodles topped with a hearty sauce made from chunjang (a fermented black bean paste), diced pork, and vegetables. Often accompanied by a small portion of danmuji (yellow pickled radish), Jjajangmyeon is a beloved meal for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Features of Jjajangmyeon in Incheon’s Chinatown
Incheon’s Chinatown, the largest in South Korea, offers an authentic Jjajangmyeon experience that’s steeped in history. Here, the dish is prepared with traditional techniques passed down through generations, ensuring a taste that’s both authentic and deeply satisfying. The Jjajangmyeon in Chinatown is known for its rich, silky sauce and perfectly cooked noodles, a testament to the skill of the chefs who prepare it.
Where to Eat Jjajangmyeon in Incheon’s Chinatown
While Incheon’s Chinatown is home to numerous restaurants serving Jjajangmyeon, a few standouts include:
- Gonghwachun (공화춘): Considered the birthplace of Korean-style Jjajangmyeon, this historic restaurant offers a taste of history with every bite.
How to Get to Incheon’s Chinatown
Incheon’s Chinatown is accessible and convenient to visit from Seoul or other parts of Incheon:
- By Subway: Take the Seoul Metropolitan Subway Line 1 to Incheon Station. From there, Chinatown is just a short walk away, ready to welcome you with its vibrant murals, traditional archways, and, of course, the enticing aroma of Jjajangmyeon.
- By Bus: Various bus routes serve the Incheon area and can drop you near Chinatown, making it a convenient option for those traveling from different parts of the city.
Korean Fried Chicken
- Featured in: “My Love from the Star“,”Chicken Nugget“
- Features: Crispy fried chicken coated in a variety of sauces, from spicy to sweet and sour.
- Where to Eat: Many chains like Kyochon offer this dish nationwide.
Kimchi Bokkeumbap (Kimchi Fried Rice)
- Featured in: “Fight for My Way” starring Kim Ji-won. In the drama Kim Ji-won decorates the fried rice with a heart.
- Features: Fried rice with kimchi, often topped with a fried egg and sliced meat.
- Where to Eat: Street food markets and casual dining spots in Seoul, like Gwangjang Market.
Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
- Featured in: “Let’s Eat” series
- Features: A hearty stew made with soybean paste, tofu, vegetables, and sometimes seafood or meat.
- Where to Eat: Traditional Korean restaurants across Korea.
Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-fried Chicken)
- Featured in: “Gentleman’s Dignity”
- Features: Chicken marinated in gochujang (Korean chili paste) and stir-fried with sweet potatoes, cabbage, and tteok (rice cakes).
- Where to Eat: Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, is famous for this dish.
The Features of Chuncheon Dakgalbi
What sets Chuncheon Dakgalbi apart is its unique blend of flavors and the experience of cooking it right at your table. The marinade is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with a hint of smokiness from the grill. The addition of vegetables and tteok adds texture and depth to the dish, making it a complete meal that’s both satisfying and addictive.
Eating Dakgalbi is a communal affair, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among diners as they cook and share the meal from the same pan. It’s common to finish the meal with bokkeumbap (fried rice), prepared by mixing rice with the remaining sauce and ingredients, ensuring that not a single drop of flavor is wasted.
Where to Eat Dakgalbi in Chuncheon
Chuncheon’s Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street is the epicenter of Dakgalbi cuisine, with rows of restaurants serving up this signature dish. Some notable places include:
- Yoogane Dakgalbi: One of the oldest and most famous Dakgalbi restaurants in Chuncheon, known for its rich and spicy sauce.
How to Get to Chuncheon
Chuncheon is easily accessible from Seoul by train or bus, making it a perfect day trip for food lovers.
- By Train: The ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan Station in Seoul will get you to Chuncheon Station in about an hour and 20 minutes. From there, Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street is a short taxi or bus ride away.
- By Bus: Buses to Chuncheon run frequently from Seoul’s Dong Seoul Bus Terminal. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
- Featured in: “Reply 1988”, “Lovely Runner“
- Features: Rice cakes in a spicy, sweet sauce with fish cakes and boiled eggs.
- Where to Eat: Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town in Seoul.
Sindang-dong Tteokbokki (신당동 떡볶이)
Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Seoul is a culinary landmark, renowned for its significance in the history and evolution of one of Korea’s most beloved street food dishes, 떡볶이 (Tteokbokki). This spicy, sweet, and savory dish consists of chewy rice cakes and fish cakes simmered in a rich, red chili sauce. It’s a staple comfort food for many Koreans, satisfying cravings at virtually any time of the day.
Why Sindang-dong Tteokbokki is Famous
The fame of Sindang-dong Tteokbokki dates back to the 1950s, making it a historical culinary destination in Seoul. It is said that this area is the birthplace of the modern, spicy version of Tteokbokki that is now loved nationwide. Before the 1950s, Tteokbokki was mainly a soy sauce-based dish. However, with the introduction of gochujang (Korean chili paste), the dish transformed into the spicy, addictive treat that many know and love today.
Sindang-dong is particularly famous because it hosts a street known as 떡볶이 타운 (Tteokbokki Town), where numerous eateries offer their unique takes on this classic dish. Some recipes include cheese, seafood, and even western-inspired ingredients, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of Tteokbokki. The area serves as a cultural and culinary hub, drawing not only locals looking for a taste of nostalgia but also tourists eager to experience authentic Korean street food.
Features of Sindang-dong Tteokbokki
- Variety: While the classic spicy Tteokbokki is the star, many restaurants in the area offer variations that include additional ingredients like ramen noodles, boiled eggs, dumplings, and more.
- Atmosphere: The bustling atmosphere of Tteokbokki Town, with its vibrant aromas and the bustling crowds, adds to the experience. It’s not just about the food; it’s about enjoying the lively Korean street food culture.
- History and Tradition: Eating Tteokbokki in Sindang-dong offers a connection to the historical roots of this beloved dish. Many of the restaurants here have been operating for decades, passing down recipes from generation to generation.
How to Get to Sindang-dong
Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town is conveniently located in Seoul, making it easily accessible by public transportation. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Seoul Metro.
- Subway: Take the subway to Sindang Station (신당역), which is serviced by Line 2 and Line 6. Exit 8 directly leads to the beginning of Tteokbokki Town. As soon as you exit, you’ll be greeted by the mouth-watering scent of simmering Tteokbokki, guiding you to the heart of this culinary haven.
Exploring Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town is a must for any food enthusiast visiting Seoul. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a place to immerse oneself in the flavors, aromas, and history of Korean street food culture. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Tteokbokki or trying it for the first time, the experience of enjoying this dish in its birthplace is truly unparalleled.
Budae Jjigae (Army Stew)
- Featured in: “Crash Landing on You“
- Features: A spicy stew that includes ham, sausage, spam, baked beans, kimchi, and instant noodles, reflecting post-war food scarcity.
- Where to Eat: Uijeongbu, which is known for its Budae Jjigae Street.
The Origin of Budae Jjigae
Budae Jjigae’s inception can be traced back to the Korean War’s aftermath when food was scarce, and survival was a daily challenge. The locals, in a brilliant stroke of creativity, began to concoct a stew using surplus food supplies from U.S. army bases, such as hot dogs, spam, and baked beans, combined with traditional Korean ingredients like kimchi, gochujang (Korean chili paste), and tofu. The result was a dish that was not only filling but also rich in flavors, symbolizing a unique blend of American and Korean cuisines.
Features of Budae Jjigae
Budae Jjigae is a testament to the Korean spirit of ingenuity. Its base is a spicy and savory broth, to which a variety of ingredients are added, including ramen noodles, sausages, spam, vegetables, and sometimes even cheese, creating a melting pot of flavors and textures. It’s often shared communally, simmering at the table, inviting diners to bond over the bubbling stew.
Where to Eat Budae Jjigae in Uijeongbu
Uijeongbu, which claims to have first made the dish, has a “Uijeongbu Budae-jjigae Street” with a high concentration of specialty restaurants. Chains like Nolboo have operated over a thousand locations in the country.Uijeongbu is famed for its Budae Jjigae Street, a culinary haven where the air is perfumed with the spicy aroma of simmering stews. Among the numerous eateries, two standouts are:
- Odeng Sikdang: Known for its rich broth and generous portions, this place offers a traditional take on Budae Jjigae that has been perfected over decades.
How to Get to Uijeongbu
Uijeongbu is easily accessible from Seoul by subway or bus, making it an ideal destination for food enthusiasts looking to explore beyond the capital’s culinary scene.
- By Subway: Take the Seoul Metro Line 1 directly to Uijeongbu Station. From there, Budae Jjigae Street is a short walk away, inviting you on a gastronomic journey.
- By Bus: Various bus lines run from Seoul to Uijeongbu. Once in Uijeongbu, local buses or a short taxi ride can take you to the heart of Budae Jjigae country.
Hangover Soup (Haejangguk)
- Featured in: “Pasta”
- Features: A rich, hearty soup made with beef broth, vegetables, and congealed ox blood, believed to cure hangovers.
- Where to Eat: Seoul’s Jongno District has many restaurants known for their Haejangguk.
Naengmyeon (Cold Buckwheat Noodles)
- Featured in: “Crash Landing on You”
- Features: Thin, chewy noodles in a cold broth with cucumber, pear, and sometimes boiled egg or cold beef slices.
- Where to Eat: Pyongyang Naengmyeon restaurants in Seoul, like the famous Yujin Restaurant, for an authentic experience.
2 Types of Naengmyeon
Naengmyeon, a beloved Korean cold noodle dish, offers a refreshing respite during the hot summer months. With its origins tracing back to North Korea, naengmyeon has two main variations that have captivated taste buds across the Korean Peninsula: Hamhung Naengmyeon and Pyongyang Naengmyeon. Both versions share the core concept of cold, chewy noodles but diverge significantly in their preparation, garnishes, and broth, reflecting the culinary diversity within Korean cuisine.
Hamhung Naengmyeon (함흥냉면)
Originating from Hamhung, the second-largest city in North Korea, Hamhung Naengmyeon is distinguished by its use of potato or sweet potato starch noodles, giving them a distinctive chewy texture. Unlike its Pyongyang counterpart, Hamhung Naengmyeon often eschews a broth, being served instead in a spicy and tangy dressing made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or a clear, cold broth on the side. It’s frequently garnished with slices of raw fish, usually skate, which adds a unique, pungent flavor that complements the spiciness of the sauce.
Pyongyang Naengmyeon (평양냉면)
Pyongyang Naengmyeon, hailing from the North Korean capital, is characterized by its delicate, buckwheat-based noodles and a cold, umami-rich broth made from beef or pheasant. The broth is often served icy cold, sometimes with actual ice cubes to maintain its low temperature. Garnishes include slices of beef, a slice of Korean pear, pickled radish, and a boiled egg, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and refreshing flavors. The overall taste is milder compared to Hamhung Naengmyeon, with the broth’s subtle depth being a hallmark of the dish.
Where to Eat
In South Korea, both versions of naengmyeon are widely available, especially in specialized naengmyeon restaurants throughout Seoul and other major cities. For authentic Pyongyang Naengmyeon, restaurants such as Okryugwan and Pyeongyang Myeonok in Seoul are renowned for their traditional recipes and preparation methods. Meanwhile, those seeking to experience the unique flavors of Hamhung Naengmyeon can find satisfaction at establishments like Eulmildae, also in Seoul.
Features
- Noodles: Hamhung Naengmyeon uses potato or sweet potato starch noodles for a chewier texture, while Pyongyang Naengmyeon features thinner, buckwheat-based noodles.
- Broth: The star of Pyongyang Naengmyeon is its cold, beef or pheasant broth, whereas Hamhung Naengmyeon may forgo broth in favor of a spicy dressing, though a clear broth version is also common.
- Garnishes: Both versions come with a variety of garnishes, but Hamhung Naengmyeon is notable for its use of raw skate, and Pyongyang Naengmyeon is known for its beef, Korean pear, and boiled egg toppings.
Enjoying Naengmyeon
When enjoying naengmyeon, it’s customary to mix the noodles and garnishes thoroughly before eating. Vinegar and mustard are often provided on the side, allowing diners to adjust the flavor to their liking. Due to the chewy nature of the noodles, scissors may be used to cut them into more manageable lengths.
Naengmyeon offers a fascinating glimpse into Korea’s culinary diversity, with each variation reflecting the unique flavors and traditions of its region of origin. Whether you prefer the spicy kick of Hamhung Naengmyeon or the subtle, savory depth of Pyongyang Naengmyeon, these cold noodle dishes provide a delicious and cooling culinary experience.
Other Korean Foods
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