Must-Try Korean Foods: Korean BBQ, Corn Dogs, Fried Chicken, and Shaved Ice

If you’ve watched any K-drama, you’ve likely seen unique Korean food like Korean corn dogs, Korean fried chicken, and Korean shaved ice. Let’s delve into Must-try Korean foods to please both your eyes and taste buds.

Korean BBQ

The Sizzle of Tradition: The Story of Korean BBQ

In the heart of Seoul, amidst the bustling streets and neon lights, there lies an experience that is quintessentially Korean – the Korean BBQ. Known as “gogi-gui” in Korean, which means “meat roasting,” this culinary tradition is not just about food; it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, companionship, and flavor that resonates deeply within the soul of Korea.

The Origins

The story of Korean BBQ begins centuries ago. In ancient texts, there are mentions of “maekjeok,” where meat was skewered and grilled. This method evolved through the ages, influenced by changes in lifestyle and culinary practices. By the time of the Joseon Dynasty, “bulgogi” – thin, marinated slices of beef, grilled on a pan – became popular among the nobility.

The Experience

What sets Korean BBQ apart is the unique dining experience. Tables are equipped with built-in grills, around which friends and family gather, cooking their meals together. It’s a communal affair, fostering conversation and bonding. The sounds of sizzling meat, the warmth from the grill, and the shared joy of cooking elevate the dining experience into a cherished social ritual.

The Meat and Marinades

Korean BBQ offers a variety of meats, including beef (bulgogi and galbi), pork (samgyeopsal), and chicken. What makes it truly special are the marinades, a perfect balance of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and other ingredients, creating flavors that dance on the palate. The marinated meats are then grilled to perfection, with diners often taking turns flipping the pieces to ensure they’re cooked just right.

The Sides and Sauces

No Korean BBQ meal is complete without “banchan” – an array of side dishes that accompany the main course. Kimchi, pickled vegetables, salads, and various pastes and sauces like “ssamjang” (a mix of soybean paste and chili paste) add layers of flavor and texture to the meal. Diners wrap meat and sides in lettuce leaves, creating a delightful package of tastes and aromas with each bite.

The Modern Twist

Today, Korean BBQ has transcended borders, becoming a global phenomenon. Restaurants around the world offer their take on this Korean tradition, sometimes adding local flavors and ingredients. Yet, at its core, the essence of Korean BBQ remains the same – a celebration of food, friendship, and culture.

The Legacy Continues

As night falls over Seoul, the city comes alive with the glow from BBQ restaurants, inviting locals and tourists alike to partake in this age-old tradition. Korean BBQ is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates the warmth, generosity, and zest for life that is at the heart of Korean culture. It’s a tradition that continues to sizzle, inviting everyone to gather around the grill and share in the joy of cooking together.

Where Can You Eat Korean BBQ?

Seoul: Mapo Jeong Daepo (마포정대포)

Address: 183-16 Dohwa-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Phone Number: 02-713-0710

Features: This renowned spot in Seoul is famous for its smoky, charcoal-grilled BBQ. The ambiance is traditional, and it’s a favorite among locals for its high-quality meats and classic side dishes. They’re particularly known for their marinated beef ribs.

Busan Charcoal Grilled Ribs

Address: 9, Junggu-ro 48beon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan Metropolitan City

Phone number: 051-245-5534

Bumyeong (Specializing in Jeju Black Pork and Premium Hanwoo) 

Address: 79-1, Namgwang-ro, Jeju City, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province

Phone Number: 050-71475-2891

Gangnam Pork Association Unlimited Refill Myeongdong Direct Store

Address: 2nd Floor, Gangnam Pork Association Unlimited Refill Myeongdong Direct Store, 21 Myeongdong 7-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

Phone Number: 02-318-2990

Tips for Dining Out

• Reservations: While not always necessary, making a reservation can help you avoid waiting, especially at popular spots during peak dining times.
• Side Dishes: Korean BBQ comes with an array of side dishes known as banchan. These are usually refillable, so don’t hesitate to ask for more.
• Grilling: At many places, you’ll grill the meat yourself at your table. It’s part of the fun, but if you’re unsure how to properly cook the meat, ask the staff for assistance—they’re usually more than happy to help.
• Language Barrier: While staff at more touristy spots may speak English, it’s not a guarantee everywhere. Learning a few basic Korean phrases or having a translation app can enhance your dining experience.

Enjoying Korean BBQ in Korea is about more than just the food; it’s an immersive cultural experience. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the scenic views of Busan, each location offers its own unique taste of this beloved culinary tradition.

Korean Corn Dog

One of the unique must-try Korean foods, the Korean corn dog’s roots can be traced back to American influence in South Korea, where the traditional corn dog was introduced and subsequently reinvented with a Korean twist. The innovation didn’t stop at simply battering and frying a hot dog; Korean vendors experimented with various coatings, fillings, and toppings, transforming it into a versatile snack that caters to a wide range of taste preferences.

A Fusion of Flavors and Textures

What sets the Korean corn dog apart is its coating. Instead of the typical cornmeal batter, these corn dogs are often encased in a light, yeasty batter, rice flour, or even ramen noodles, providing a unique texture that’s both crunchy and chewy. Some variations are rolled in sugar after frying, offering a delightful sweet and savory contrast.

Fillings also vary widely, from traditional hot dogs to mozzarella cheese, fish cakes, and even spicy sausages, allowing for an exciting mix of flavors. The most iconic version, perhaps, is the half-cheese, half-hot dog filling, providing the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Toppings and Sauces: The Icing on the Cake

The adventure doesn’t stop at the batter and filling. Korean corn dogs are often adorned with a variety of toppings and sauces, adding layers of flavor and texture. A drizzle of ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or sweet chili sauce is common, along with a sprinkle of sugar for that quintessential Korean touch. For the more adventurous eater, there’s a plethora of toppings like diced potatoes, crushed ramen, or even cereal, creating a corn dog that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

A Global Sensation

The Korean corn dog’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, with specialty shops popping up worldwide, from the streets of Seoul to New York City and beyond. Social media platforms have played a significant role in its rise, with videos of gooey cheese pulls and crunchy bites captivating viewers globally.

Where to Eat the Korean Corn Dog in Korea

Streets and Markets in Korea

Naturally, the homeland of the Korean corn dog is the best place to find the authentic taste. Almost every major street market or commercial district in South Korea offers a variety of corn dogs. Tourist hotspots in Seoul such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Itaewon have numerous stalls and shops dedicated to serving these delicious snacks.

Myeongdong Street Food Alley, Seoul

Myeongdong in Seoul is not only a shopping paradise but also a street food haven for foodies. The area is bustling with vendors offering a wide variety of Korean corn dogs, from classic styles to innovative ones filled with cheese, squid ink, or even coated with ramen crumbs. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Korean street food.

Hongdae, Seoul

Known for its youthful ambiance, vibrant nightlife, and indie music scene, Hongdae also boasts a fantastic street food scene. Here, you can find numerous stalls and small eateries serving up creative and mouth-watering versions of the Korean corn dog. The area’s lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to enjoy this popular snack.

Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, Busan

Located in Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, the Bupyeong Kkangtong Market is another excellent place for food enthusiasts. The market features a variety of street food options, including Korean corn dogs. Visitors can enjoy exploring the diverse food stalls and trying out different flavors of corn dogs.

Gwangjang Market, Seoul

One of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul, Gwangjang Market, offers a plethora of Korean delicacies, including the beloved corn dog. While the market is famous for its bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and other traditional foods, several stalls serve tasty Korean corn dogs, making it a great spot to sample a bit of everything

Where to Find and Savor the Korean Corn Dog Worldwide

Finding places to buy and enjoy Korean corn dogs is becoming easier worldwide, thanks to the global popularity of Korean culture and cuisine. Here are some suggestions on where you can find Korean corn dogs:

1. Overseas Korean Markets: In many countries, Korean grocery stores or markets often sell frozen Korean corn dogs that you can easily prepare at home. This option allows you to enjoy a taste of Korea from the comfort of your kitchen.
2. Korean Restaurants and Cafés: With the increasing popularity of Korean cuisine globally, many Korean restaurants and cafés outside Korea have started to include Korean corn dogs on their menu. This provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy them freshly made.
3. Food Trucks and Pop-up Stores: At various cultural festivals, food events, or through food trucks, you might find Korean corn dogs being sold. These pop-up experiences offer a casual way to enjoy Korean street food. Keep an eye on social media for any announcements about Korean food events in your area.
4. Online Shopping: The internet has made it incredibly easy to access foods from around the world. There are numerous online stores and marketplaces that sell Korean corn dogs, some of which offer international shipping. This means you can order them frozen and have them delivered to your doorstep.

Conclusion

Korean corn dogs are relatively inexpensive street food, but some people eat them as a meal. They are delicious and rich in calories and satiety. But once you taste this flavor, you will never forget it. Try the taste that the whole world loves.

One of the Unique Korean Foods: Korean Fried Chicken

Characteristics and Taste: Korean fried chicken is renowned for its exceptionally crispy coating and a variety of seasoning sauces. Beyond the classic seasoned and soy sauce flavors, it also comes in garlic, honey butter, and spicy variants, among others. Its unique double-frying technique ensures the chicken remains crispy.

Ingredients:

• Chicken (wings and drumsticks are popular)
• Flour or special frying mix
• Salt and pepper
• Various seasoning sauces (such as soy sauce, gochujang, garlic, honey, etc.)
• Cooking oil

How to Make:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken pieces in flour or a special frying mix.
3. Deep-fry the chicken twice in oil to achieve a crispy texture.
4. Coat the fried chicken in your choice of seasoning sauce.

Places to Enjoy:

• Kyochon Chicken
• BBQ Chicken
• BHC Chicken

Google Maps Example:

• Kyochon Chicken Myeongdong Branch: Google Maps Link

Korean Dramas Featuring Fried Chicken: Korean fried chicken often appears in K-dramas, symbolizing comfort food and social bonding. For instance, in the drama “Crash Landing on You,” characters frequently enjoy fried chicken, highlighting its role in Korean social life.

One of the Unique Korean Foods: Korean Shaved Ice (Bingsu)

Characteristics and Taste: Korean shaved ice, or bingsu, is a dessert consisting of finely shaved ice topped with ingredients such as sweet red beans, chewy rice cakes, fresh fruits, and ice cream. It’s a popular way to cool down during the hot summer months, offering a sweet and refreshing taste with a variety of flavorful toppings.

Ingredients:

• Ice
• Sweet red bean paste (danpat)
• Mochi rice cakes (chapssal-tteok)
• Fresh fruits (such as strawberries, mango, etc.)
• Condensed milk or flavored syrup
• Ice cream (optional)

How to Make:

1. Shave the ice finely.
2. Place the shaved ice in a bowl.
3. Add toppings such as sweet red bean paste, rice cakes, and fresh fruits.
4. Drizzle with condensed milk or flavored syrup, and optionally top with ice cream.

Places to Enjoy:

• Sulbing

Google Maps Example:

• Sulbing Hongdae Branch: Google Maps Link

Korean Dramas Featuring Shaved Ice: Korean shaved ice is frequently featured in K-dramas as a symbol of refreshing delight and romance. For example, in “My Love from the Star,” characters share moments over bingsu, showcasing its popularity as a summer treat.

Why Korean Foods Are Popular:

• Diverse Flavors: The wide array of flavors and styles for both fried chicken and shaved ice caters to a broad range of tastes.
• Crispy Texture: The double-frying method of Korean fried chicken creates an irresistibly crispy texture that many find appealing.
• Cooling Delight: Shaved ice serves as a perfect refreshment during the summer, offering a sweet and cooling experience.
• Culture of Sharing: These foods are often enjoyed in social settings with friends and family, making them popular choices for gatherings.
• K-Drama Influence: The frequent appearance of these foods in popular K-dramas further boosts their appeal, as fans seek to experience the same delights their favorite characters enjoy.

The wide-ranging flavors, unique textures, cultural significance, and the influence of K-dramas make Korean corn dog, fried chicken and shaved ice beloved treats both within Korea and internationally.

Other Posts about Korean Foods

Top 10 Iconic Korean Foods Featured in the K-Drama

“Culinary Class Wars” and K-Food