Introduction

The vibrant city of Seoul is known for its bustling streets filled with an array of mouth-watering street food stalls, each offering a unique taste experience. As a food enthusiast, you can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of options available. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of Korean street food and provide a beginner’s guide to must-try flavors in Seoul.

Understanding Korean Street Food

Street food in Korea is known as “pojangmacha” () or “street vendors.” These vendors typically set up stalls on the side of the road, offering a range of dishes from traditional Korean cuisine to modern fusion foods. The best part? Most street food stalls are incredibly affordable, with prices starting from around 5,000 KRW (approximately $4 USD).

Must-Try Flavors

Here’s a selection of must-try flavors in Seoul:

Tteokbokki ()

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food dish made from chewy rice cakes and fish-based sauce. The sweet and spicy flavor combination has become a staple in Korean cuisine.

  • Try it at: Myeong-dong Tteokbokki Street, located near the famous shopping district of Myeong-dong.

Bungeo-ppang ()

Bungeo-ppang is a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. This popular snack is often enjoyed during winter months when the weather is cold.

  • Try it at: Gwangjang Market, located in the heart of Seoul’s shopping district.

Hotteok ()

Hotteok is a savory pancake filled with melted cheese and various fillings such as vegetables or meat. It’s a perfect snack for those looking for something warm and satisfying.

  • Try it at: Myeong-dong Hotteok Alley, located near the famous shopping district of Myeong-dong.

Kimchi Stew ()

Kimchi stew is a spicy and flavorful dish made with kimchi (spicy fermented Korean cabbage) and various ingredients such as pork or tofu. It’s a popular comfort food in Korea.

  • Try it at: Hongdae Market, located in the trendy neighborhood of Hongdae.

Practical Tips

When trying street food in Seoul:

  1. Eat with Your Hands: In traditional Korean culture, eating with your hands is considered polite and respectful. Don’t be afraid to dig in!

  2. Try New Things: Korean street food is all about experimentation. Be brave and try new flavors and combinations.

  3. Wash Down with a Drink: Pair your meal with a refreshing drink like makgeolli (traditional Korean rice wine) or coffee from a local café.

  4. Be Prepared for Spicy Food: Korean cuisine is known for its spicy dishes, so be prepared to sweat!

Conclusion

Exploring the flavors of Seoul is an experience unlike any other. From traditional street food stalls to modern fusion restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. As a beginner, it can seem overwhelming, but with this guide, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the must-try flavors of Korean street food. So go ahead, grab a steaming hot bowl of tteokbokki or bungeo-ppang, and indulge in the delicious world of Korean cuisine!