Korean cuisine

A traditional Korean meal known as han-jeongsik

Korean cuisine is the customary cooking traditions and practices of Korea. It has evolved through centuries of social and political change, with roots in ancient agricultural and nomadic traditions in the Korean peninsula and southern Manchuria. Korean cuisine is largely based on rice, vegetables, and meats. Traditional Korean meals are noted for the number of side dishes (banchan) that accompany steam-cooked short-grain rice. Kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, is almost always served at every meal.

History

The origins of Korean cuisine can be traced back to ancient times, with influences from the Three Kingdoms of Korea (Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla). During the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, Korean cuisine developed further with the introduction of new ingredients and cooking techniques.

A mural from the Goguryeo period depicting a banquet

Goguryeo

In the Goguryeo period, the diet was largely based on grains, legumes, and vegetables. Meat was consumed, but it was not as prevalent as in later periods. The Goguryeo people were known for their fermented foods, which were essential for preserving food through harsh winters.

Joseon Dynasty

During the Joseon Dynasty, Korean cuisine became more refined and diverse. The introduction of chili peppers from the Americas in the 16th century led to the development of spicy dishes that are now a hallmark of Korean cuisine. The royal court cuisine of the Joseon period was particularly elaborate, with a wide variety of dishes served at each meal.

Ingredients and Dishes

Korean cuisine is characterized by the use of a variety of ingredients, including grains, meats, seafood, and vegetables. Fermented foods such as kimchi, doenjang (fermented soybean paste), and gochujang (fermented red chili paste) are staples in Korean cooking.

Bulgogi, a popular Korean dish made of marinated beef

Rice and Grains

Rice is the staple food in Korea, and it is usually served as a part of every meal. Other grains such as barley, millet, and corn are also used. Bap (cooked rice) is often accompanied by guk (soup) or jjigae (stew).

Meat and Seafood

Korean cuisine includes a variety of meat and seafood dishes. Bulgogi is a popular dish made of marinated beef, while samgyeopsal is grilled pork belly. Seafood is abundant in Korean cuisine, with dishes such as haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) and jogaetang (clam soup).

Naengmyeon, a cold noodle dish

Noodles

Noodles are an important part of Korean cuisine, with dishes such as naengmyeon (cold noodles) and japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) being popular.

Soups and Stews

Soups and stews are a staple in Korean meals. Kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) and doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew) are common. Tteokguk (rice cake soup) is traditionally eaten during the Korean New Year.

Tteokmanduguk, a rice cake and dumpling soup

Dining Etiquette

Korean dining etiquette is an important aspect of the culture. Meals are typically served with all dishes on the table at once, and it is customary to wait for the eldest person to start eating before others begin. Chopsticks and spoons are used for eating, and it is considered polite to finish all the food on one's plate.

A traditional Korean spoon from the Joseon Dynasty

Modern Korean Cuisine

In recent years, Korean cuisine has gained international popularity, with dishes such as bibimbap and Korean fried chicken becoming well-known around the world. The global spread of Korean pop culture, known as the "Korean Wave," has also contributed to the growing interest in Korean food.

Budae jjigae, a fusion dish developed after the Korean War

Related Pages

• Kimchi
• Bibimbap
• Korean barbecue
• Korean tea
• Korean royal court cuisine