Anju (food)

Anju is a general term used in Korean culture to refer to food that is specifically designed to be consumed with alcohol. The practice of consuming anju has a long history in Korean culture and is deeply ingrained in the social fabric of the country.

History

The tradition of anju dates back to the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 668 AD). The concept of anju evolved over time, with the introduction of new ingredients and cooking methods from other cultures. During the Joseon period (1392–1897), anju was typically served in jumak, which were Korean taverns.

Types of Anju

There are many different types of anju, which can be broadly categorized into three types: bunshik anju, jujeom anju, and hansik anju.

Bunshik Anju includes dishes made from flour or rice, such as tteokbokki and ramyeon.

Jujeom Anju refers to dishes that are typically served in bars or pubs, such as Korean fried chicken and samgyeopsal.

Hansik Anju includes traditional Korean dishes that are often served with traditional Korean alcohol like soju and makgeolli. This includes dishes like panchan, kimchi, and jokbal.

Cultural Significance

Anju is not just food; it is an integral part of Korean drinking culture. It is considered impolite to drink alcohol without eating anju in Korea. The type of anju served often depends on the type of alcohol being consumed.

See Also

• Korean cuisine
• Drinking culture of Korea
• List of Korean dishes