Introduction
As an island completely surrounded by the East China Sea, Jeju has a great variety of fresh and flavorful seafood that has become a trademark for its culinary identity. From special local delicacies to traditional Korean dishes with a Jeju spin, the island’s seafood offerings are a must-try for any food enthusiast. Now, let's dive into some of the most notorious seafood dishes that make Jeju a true paradise for all seafood lovers!
1) Galchi Jorim: Braised Cutlassfish
Long, thin cutlass fish, which are plentiful in Jeju waters, are the main ingredient in this meal. They are braised in a spicy, savory sauce made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness. The sauce, fortified with potatoes and radishes, has powerful aromas that the flaky, delicate fish absorbs. Galchi Jorim is also typically served with steamed rice, making for a satisfying meal that displays the best of Jeju’s seafood.
2) Okdom Gui: Grilled Tilefish
Locally referred to as "okdom", tilefish is a white fish with a mildly sweet flavor that is best enjoyed simply salted and grilled. The fish is typically served whole, its meat soft and delicate and its skin perfectly crisped. Both locals and visitors adore Okdom Gui and its often consumed as part of a traditional Korean meal with a variety of banchan (side dishes).
3) Mulhoe: Refreshing Cold Seafood Soup
Try Mulhoe (cold seafood soup), perfect for a sunny day. It's an unsual and refreshing food found on Jeju Island. It is made with a blend of raw seafood, including fish, abalone, and sea cucumber, mixed with vegetables and served in an icy, tangy broth seasoned with gochujang, vinegar, and sesame oil. The combination of fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and the spicy broth makes Mulhoe a dish embraced by the essence of Jeju’s coastal cuisine.
4) Muneo Sukhoe: Parboiled Octopus
Another well-known Jeju dish called Muneo Sukhoe has soft, parboiled octopus. To preserve its tender texture, the octopus is swiftly cooked, then thinly sliced into little pieces. It’s often served with a tangy, spicy dipping sauce made from gochujang, vinegar, and sesame oil, which wonderfully balances the mild flavor of the octopus. Muneo Sukhoe usually makes for an excellent appetizer or a main dish, and it’s a favorite among locals because of its simplicity and the freshness of the octopus.
5) Jeonbokjuk: Abalone Porridge
Jeonbokjuk, or abalone porridge, is one of Jeju's most recognizable delicacies. This meal, a porridge made from freshly caught abalone, mixes the soothing flavors of rice, sesame oil, and garlic, with the chewiness of abalone. In Korean cuisine, Abalone is valued for its delicate taste as well as its nutritional value, making it a tonic dish. Jeonbokjuk is a staple in Jeju, particularly well-liked by visitors who want to savor the island's finest seafood selections.
Conclusion
From scrumptious abalone dishes to the plain and simple pleasures of grilled fish, Jeju offers an amazing seafood experience that is as diverse as it is delicious! Whether you’re dining in at a restaurant, venturing into a local market, or enjoying a meal prepared from the sea, Jeju’s seafood will definitely make a great impression on your palate.
Image credit:
https://www.maangchi.com/recipe/galchi-jorim
https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/thingsToDo/foodTrip/special_view.do?vcontsId=178755
https://m.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160722000781
https://www.maangchi.com/recipe/muneo-sukhoe
https://www.maangchi.com/recipe/jeonbokjuk
Author: Ella
