Get ready to spice up your life with these 20 authentic Korean recipes that will ignite your taste buds! Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and spicy kick. From hearty stews and soups to savory stir-fries and sweet desserts, there’s something for everyone in this culinary paradise.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the flavors of Korea, showcasing classic dishes that are both accessible and authentic. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just discovering Korean cuisine, these recipes are sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Korean cooking and get ready to experience the bold, spicy flavors that have made this cuisine so beloved around the globe.
Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
This spicy Korean stew is a staple comfort food, made with fermented kimchi and a variety of ingredients. Kimchi Jjigae is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pork or beef bones (or chicken bones)
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi, bones, water, gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the stew has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bulgogi (Marinated Beef BBQ)
Experience the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with this easy-to-make Bulgogi recipe, featuring tender beef short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory soy-ginger sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame oil and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the beef short ribs to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill beef for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Brush with sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions (if using). Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food, is a flavorful and spicy dish made with chewy rice cakes and a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Seoul to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 200g rice cakes (tteok)
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup fish cake slices (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice cakes according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic; stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked rice cakes and water; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. If using fish cake, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made from stir-fried glass noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood. This recipe is a classic version that’s quick to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: 100g beef or pork, sliced
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
6. Stir in the cooked glass noodles, spinach leaves, salt, and black pepper.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the ingredients are well combined.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)
Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean dish that’s both flavorful and tender. This grilled pork belly recipe brings the authentic taste of Korea to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the pork belly slices to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the pork belly for 5-7 minutes per side, or until crispy and caramelized.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite Korean-style sides, such as kimchi and rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl)
Bibimbap, a popular Korean dish, is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, featuring a base of warm white rice topped with an assortment of colorful vegetables, savory meat or egg, and finished with a drizzle of spicy chili pepper paste. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup cooked beef or chicken, sliced (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten and cooked to desired doneness
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
3. Add bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers; stir-fry until tender (3-4 minutes).
4. Add cooked beef or chicken, if using; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Assemble the Bibimbap by placing a scoop of rice in a bowl, followed by the vegetable mixture, beaten egg, and drizzle with Gochujang.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sundubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)
A comforting Korean stew made with soft tofu, vegetables, and a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-soft tofu (or regular firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes)
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 2 cups of water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until the vegetables are tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Add chili flakes, soy sauce, sugar, and water; stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add tofu cubes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Galbi (Korean BBQ Short Ribs)
Galbi: Korean BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Galbi, or Korean-style short ribs, is a popular dish that requires patience and attention to detail. This recipe yields tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound beef short ribs
• 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru), divided
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and 1/2 cup chili flakes.
2. Add the short ribs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the ribs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Scallion Pancake)
A popular Korean dish, Haemul Pajeon is a savory pancake filled with a variety of seafood and scallions. This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup scallion, chopped
– 1/2 cup mixed seafood (e.g. shrimp, scallops, clams)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth.
2. Add salt, sugar, scallion, and seafood; mix well.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gamjatang (Pork Bone Soup)
This hearty Korean stew is a comforting and flavorful dish made with pork bones, vegetables, and a rich broth. Gamjatang is a staple in Korean cuisine, perfect for a cold winter night or any time you need a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork bones (neck bones or rib bones)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 4 cups water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Optional: additional ingredients like green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or kimchi for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the pork bones in the oven for 30 minutes, or until browned.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the roasted pork bones, carrots, potatoes, chili flakes, and water to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including roasting time)
Jjajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles)
Jjajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a rich black bean sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 200g noodles (preferably fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup black bean paste (chunjang)
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add garlic and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Pour in black bean paste and water. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Season with soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
8. Combine cooked noodles with the black bean sauce and toss well.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Fried Chicken Recipe
Discover the addictive flavors of Korean-style fried chicken with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and toasted crushed peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Korean chili flakes.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per batch).
5. Drain fried chicken on paper towels. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and toasted crushed peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
Doenjang jjigae is a popular Korean stew made with soybean paste, vegetables, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). This spicy and savory dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, carrots, bell peppers)
– 4 cups water
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine doenjang, gochujang, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables.
2. Pour in the water and add sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the vegetables are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gimbap (Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls)
Gimbap, also known as Korean seaweed rice rolls, is a popular and easy-to-make snack or meal that combines the flavors of savory fillings with sweet and salty sesame oil. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 sheet of dried seaweed (nori)
– Fillings of your choice, such as:
+ Sliced vegetables (e.g., cucumber, carrots, spinach)
+ Diced meat (e.g., beef, chicken, tofu)
+ Kimchi or other fermented Korean condiments
– Sesame oil and salt for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice by mixing 1 cup of cooked white rice with 1/2 cup of water.
2. Cut the seaweed sheet into desired sizes for rolling.
3. Place a small amount of rice mixture onto the center of each seaweed sheet, leaving a 1-inch border at the top and bottom.
4. Add your chosen fillings on top of the rice.
5. Fold the bottom edge of the seaweed up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the gimbap to form a compact cylinder.
6. Serve with sesame oil and salt for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation)
Yukgaejang (Spicy Beef Soup)
Yukgaejang is a popular Korean soup made with spicy gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), beef, and various vegetables. This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add gochugaru, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Naengmyeon (Cold Buckwheat Noodles)
Naengmyeon, a popular Korean dish, is a refreshing summer meal that combines the chewy texture of buckwheat noodles with the spicy kick of gochujang sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 200g naengmyeon noodles (cold buckwheat noodles)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup gochujang sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sliced cucumbers, pear slices, and boiled egg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook naengmyeon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and salt.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced cucumbers, pear slices, and boiled egg if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Kimchi Bokkeumbap (Kimchi Fried Rice)
Get ready to spice up your meal with this classic Korean dish, Kimchi Bokkeumbap! This recipe combines the savory flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm bowl of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kimchi and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs (if using) and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the kimchi mixture.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mandu (Korean Dumplings)
Mandu are traditional Korean dumplings that can be steamed, fried, or boiled. In this recipe, we’ll explore a simple and delicious way to make Mandu at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying (optional)
Filling Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/2 cup kimchi, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into small balls.
3. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. If frying, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan until hot. Fry Mandu for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming: 10-15 minutes
– Boiling: 5-7 minutes
– Frying: 3-4 minutes per side
Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken)
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this spicy Korean-inspired dish! Dakgalbi, which translates to “spicy stir-fried chicken,” is a popular street food in Korea that’s both flavorful and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, Gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and chili flakes. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken back to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the spicy sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Patbingsu (Korean Shaved Ice Dessert)
Beat the summer heat with this refreshing Korean dessert! Patbingsu, also known as shaved ice dessert, is a popular treat that combines sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shaved ice
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup crushed red bean (pat)
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup diced pineapple
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cream or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by shaving the ice into fine flakes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and crushed red bean until well combined.
3. In another bowl, mix together the sliced strawberries and diced pineapple.
4. To assemble the dessert, place a scoop of shaved ice in a bowl, followed by a spoonful of the red bean mixture, then a spoonful of the fruit mixture.
5. Drizzle with honey to taste.
6. Top with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these 20 authentic recipes. From spicy stews like Kimchi Jjigae and Japchae to grilled meats like Bulgogi and Samgyeopsal, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making classic dishes like Bibimbap and Tteokbokki, or indulge in sweet treats like Patbingsu. With a mix of spicy, savory, and sweet flavors, these recipes will transport you to the bustling streets of Seoul. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for new culinary adventures, this collection is sure to delight.
