Five Spicy Korean Dishes Foreigners Should Definitely Try
Korean cuisine has developed throughout the centuries, influenced by political and social factors. Its origins come from nomadic and agricultural traditions, evolving into a complex blend of culture and environment with unique, tangy flavors.
It is mostly based on meats, vegetables and rice along with numerous side dishes, wherein the most popular - even in other countries - is kimchi. It also seasons dishes with ingredients and condiments, wherein among the widely used are sesame oil, doenjang or fermented bean paste, and gochujang or fermented red chili paste.
Gochujang, in particular, has long been a very important condiment. In fact, it has become a part of Korean traditions. For hundreds of years, the Korean people's palates have evolved, gradually taking a liking for spicy foods ever since chili has been introduced to the country. These days, this condiment is considered a symbol of their vibrant disposition.
For holidaymakers looking to taste authentic, spicy Korean dishes, there's only one place to go - of course, Korea. And here are five of the spiciest and most delectable as well as the restaurant that offers them.
5. Buldak
Called 'fire chicken' in English, it'll definitely set the tongue on fire. The barbecued chicken is covered in chili sauce and tastes even better with beer. In fact, this food-drink combination is referred to as chimaek. Head to Hongcho Red Station at Gangnam-gu, Seoul and choose to have the dish surrounded by mozzarella cheese to tone down the spiciness.
4. Galbijjim
This classic braised short-rib stew is one of the most popular spicy dishes in the country. While it's savory and sweet, a small bite of the beef ribs will leave the tongue burning. Not to worry though because Maeundae, a restaurant at Gangnam-gu, Seoul, offers steamed egg to lessen the heat.
3. Ddeokbokki
Who knew that fish cakes and rice cakes could be spicy? Well, these much-loved comfort foods can be when in Korea. The dish is cooked in red chili sauce, but isn't too spicy because it has a hint of sweetness. It's easy to satiate that craving for something spicy just by checking out food stands in street corners.
2. Jjambbong
For tourists wishing to visit in winter but the cold has them looking for something warm, the best solution is a bowl of hot seafood-based noodles. A mouthful of the noodles will burn the tongue a bit and the soup or broth will set it on fire. There goes the warning. For the adventurous, Shingildong Spicy Jjambbong at Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul offers an intensely rich version. They also have milk in case the spiciness is too much to bear.
1. Donkatsu
Try the spiciest version ever made at Onnuriye Donkatsu, which means "Pork Cutlet Around the World" in English. The restaurant serves the 'Donkatsu of Death', which is smothered in dark red chili sauce with Asian herbs. How spicy is it? A small slice will be enough. Still, it doesn't hurt to try, so head to Dongjak-gu, Seoul and order a serving. Don't forget to bring milk to keep the tongue from burning because of too much heat.