Taste of Korea

When people think of Korean food, they think of Kimchi. Kimchi is a Korean staple side dish accompanied with every meal along with rice. A visitor in Korea will be surprised with the 100 varieties of Kimchi available. There is a wide array of food to choose from. Korean food includes rice, noodles, tofu, vegetables, fish and meat. Their food is very spicy and some of the main ingredients they use to flavour their dishes are sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, jeotgal ( bean paste), and red chilli paste.

 

Korea shares many similarities with other Asian cuisines such as the importance of rice and vegetables and cooking methods such as stir-frying, steaming, and braising. Koreans eat far less meat than people in the West. Red meat is scarce and very expensive, so it is usually saved for special occasions. Chicken or seafood is more commonly eaten. The Korean way of preparing and eating their dishes makes for healthy eating. Generally speaking, Koreans are thin people. Being overweight is considered a sign of wealth and dignity. A meal served for a group of people often includes several large dishes and as many as twenty side dishes. Unlike other Asian cuisines, Korean cuisine includes many uncooked vegetables served in the form of salads and pickles. During a meal, all dishes are served at the same time. People use chopsticks and spoons. Not only have the neighbours impacted the food of Korea, but its distinct seasons as well. The have different foods for different seasons and festivals. Koreans place great importance on table settings and etiquette.

 

Koreans rarely drink with their meals, except for some water or poricha ( barley tea). But they do drink a wide variety of beverages. Tea houses and cafes are sprinkled all over the city. They have many traditional alcoholic drinks too, Soju being the most popular.

 

 

Korea has all kinds of establishments. From street food, to small and big restaurants. To very formal ones. You will always find one to suit your budget.