Korean side dishes are called “banchan” in Korea. These add vibrant flavor and texture to your food. These dishes are served in small portions and filled with vibrant ingredients that make every meal exciting. Korean side dishes can be made in a variety of flavors, colors, and textures, becoming a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Traditionally, banchan dishes are shared and enjoyed communally, making them an integral part of Korean food culture. Whether you’re a fan of vegetarian food or prefer the taste of seafood or meat, banchan offers a delightful variety to improve any Korean meal.
Here are 5 must-try Korean side dishes:
1. Korean Cucumber Salad (Oe Muchim)
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Oe Muchim or Korean Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that perfectly complements a main Korean meal. Just one bite of this flavourful salad will wake up your taste buds. For added crispiness, the cucumber slices are salted to release excess moisture, which helps retain their texture. Korean red chili powder, or gochugaru, gives this salad its distinctive spicy flavor, beautifully balancing the sweet and spicy flavors.
2. Korean Kimchi
Kimchi is a quintessential Korean side dish that adds spiciness to every meal. Traditionally made from fermented cabbage, kimchi can also include radishes or other vegetables, with each variation offering a unique twist on this iconic dish. This fermented side dish also has excellent probiotic properties making it good for gut health.
Also read: 4 Powerful Reasons to Add Seaweed to Your Diet (And How to Make It Delicious)
3. Kongnamul (Korean Soybean Sprouts)
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Kongnamul is one of Korea’s most beloved side dishes, found everywhere from family meals to restaurant tables. These mildly spiced soybean sprouts bring a refreshing crunch and mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of Korean dishes. This side dish is often served as part of bibimbap or with grilled meats.
4. Korean Zucchini Stir Fry (Hobak Bokkeum)
Hobak Bokkem is a simple and delicious stir fry made using zucchini. Ready in less than ten minutes, this light but satisfying side dish can be enjoyed with spicy stews or heavier main courses. To make this dish, zucchini is cut into thin slices and fried with sesame oil, garlic and a little soy sauce.
Also read: Give your potatoes a new twist with this Korean Chili Garlic Potatoes recipe
5. Musengchae (Sweet-Sour Radish Salad)
Musengchae celebrates the often overlooked radish, transforming it into a sweet and spicy salad. This side dish is made by cutting radishes into matchsticks and mixing them with sugar, vinegar and salt. You can also add Korean hot chili powder gochugaru for a spicy flavor. Musengchae tastes best when left to marinate, as its flavor intensifies over time.
Try these delicious Korean side dishes and fall in love with Korean cuisine. For tips on hosting the perfect Korean barbecue, click here.
