Korean street food has taken the world by storm and it’s not hard to see why. This vibrant and delicious cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and textures that leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, sweet, or savory, Korean street food has something to offer everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Korean street food and discover some of the most popular dishes, where to find them, and what makes them so special.
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A Brief History of Korean Street Food
During the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE-676 CE), street vendors in Korea began selling food and snacks to passersby, making it one of the earliest forms of fast food in the world. These vendors would set up stalls on busy streets and offer a variety of foods, such as roasted meat, dumplings, and rice cakes.
In the centuries that followed, Korean street food continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. During the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910), street vendors sold a wide variety of foods, including sweet rice cakes, fried chicken, and grilled seafood.
In the 20th century, street food became even more popular in Korea as the country experienced rapid urbanization and industrialization. In cities like Seoul, street vendors sold a wide variety of foods, from traditional Korean dishes like tteokbokki and sundae to international foods like hamburgers and hot dogs.
Today, Korean street food remains an integral part of Korean culture and is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Korean street food has also become increasingly popular in other countries, with Korean food trucks and street vendors popping up in cities across the globe.
Popular Korean Street Food Dishes
There’s a vast array of Korean street food to choose from, so it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some of the most popular dishes you should try:
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a spicy dish made from soft rice cakes and a sweet and spicy chili sauce. It’s a staple of Korean street food and can be found at street stalls and food trucks across the country.
Kimbap
Kimbap is similar to sushi, but with a Korean twist. Rice and various fillings, such as eggs, ham, carrots, and pickled radish, are wrapped in seaweed. It’s a perfect snack on the go and can be found at street vendors and food stalls.
Gyeran-ppang
Gyeran-ppang literally means “egg bread” in Korean, and it’s a popular Korean street food that can be found in many street markets and food stalls throughout Korea. The bread is made from a sweet, fluffy dough that is similar to a soft brioche, and it’s filled with a whole egg that is cooked inside the bread as it bakes. Gyeran-ppang is typically served hot and can be enjoyed as a savory or sweet snack.
Sundae
Sundae is a type of Korean sausage that is made from pig’s intestines that have been stuffed with a mixture of glass noodles, vegetables, and Korean spices. The filling is typically made with pork blood, which gives the sausage its distinctive dark color and rich flavor. Sundae can be found at street stalls and food trucks throughout Korea, and it’s often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Hotteok
Hotteok is a sweet, doughy snack that is popular in Korea. The dough is made from a mixture of wheat flour, water, milk, and sugar, and it’s filled with a sweet mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. The dough is then fried until it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside, and soft and chewy on the inside. Hotteok is typically served hot and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Where to Find Korean Street Food
Korean street food can be found all over the country, but some of the best places to try it are in Seoul, which is known for its vibrant street food scene. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong is a popular shopping district in Seoul that’s known for its street food stalls. The area is packed with vendors selling all kinds of Korean street food, from savory tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to sweet hotteok.
Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is a bustling traditional market in Seoul that’s famous for its street food. Here, you’ll find a wide range of Korean street food, including sundae, tteokbokki, kimbap (rice rolls), and more. The market has been around for over 100 years and is a must-visit for foodies.
Namdaemun Market
Namdaemun Market is another popular market in Seoul that’s known for its street food. In addition to offering a wide variety of Korean street food, the market also sells clothing, jewelry, and traditional Korean crafts. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for food and souvenirs, Namdaemun Market is a great choice.
What Makes Korean Street Food So Special
There are several reasons why Korean street food is so special:
Flavor
Korean street food is known for its bold, flavorful combinations of spices, sauces, and seasonings. From the spicy and savory tteokbokki to the sweet and nutty hotteok, each dish is designed to tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
Variety
Korean street food offers a wide variety of options to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, spicy, or all of the above. There are countless different dishes to try, each with its own unique flavor profile and ingredients.
Accessibility
Korean street food is incredibly accessible, with food trucks, vendors, and stalls located in virtually every neighborhood in Korea and all over the Pacific North West. This makes it easy for locals and visitors alike to sample a wide range of delicious foods wherever they go.
Overall, Korean street food is a unique and delicious part of Korean culture that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a tasty snack, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Korea’s vibrant street food scene.
FAQs
Q: What is Korean street food?
A: Korean street food refers to the wide range of snacks and dishes that are commonly sold by street vendors in South Korea.
Q: Where can I find Korean street food?
A: Korean street food can be found all over South Korea, but some of the best places to try it include Myeong-dong, Gwangjang Market, and Namdaemun Market.
Q: What makes Korean street food so special?
A: Korean street food stands out for its bold and unique flavors, interesting textures, and convenient nature.
Q: What are some popular Korean street food dishes?
A: Some of the most popular Korean street food dishes include tteokbokki, kimbap, gyeran-ppang, sundae, and hotteok.
