Uncovering Korea's Best Summer Foods

July 29, 2024

Introduction

Korea's rich culinary heritage offers a wide selection of delicious dishes that are perfect for beating the summer heat. These foods not only satisfy the taste buds, but they also provide the nourishment and refreshment needed to deal with the hot Korean weather. Let's explore some of Korea's best summer foods that you must try.

1. Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles)

Naengmyeon, a popular Korean cold noodle dish, is the perfect antidote to hot summer days. Originating from North Korea, particularly Pyongyang and Hamhung, naengmyeon is now enjoyed all over the country. There are two main types of naengmyeon: Mul Naengmyeon and Bibim Naengmyeon.

Mul Naengmyeon

Mul Naengmyeon features buckwheat noodles served in a tangy, icy broth made from beef or dongchimi (radish water kimchi). It is garnished with sliced beef, a boiled egg, cucumbers, and Korean pear slices. The broth's cold temperature and refreshing flavor make it an ideal dish for cooling down.

Bibim Naengmyeon

Bibim Naengmyeon is a spicier version where the noodles are mixed with a red, spicy sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste). It is typically served with sliced cucumbers, radish kimchi, boiled egg, and sometimes slices of cold beef. The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors provides a delightful kick, making it a favorite among spice lovers.

2. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Samgyetang is a traditional Korean soup made with a whole chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, jujube, and Korean ginseng. This nutritious dish is commonly consumed during the hottest days of summer, known as sambok, which includes Chobok (beginning of the hottest period), Jungbok (middle of the hottest period), and Malbok (end of the hottest period). Despite the paradox of eating hot soup to combat heat, samgyetang is believed to restore energy, improve blood circulation, and boost the immune system. The ginseng is particularly prized for its medicinal properties, aiding in stamina and overall strength.

3. Bingsu (Shaved Ice Dessert)

Bingsu is an essential Korean dessert perfect for hot summer days. This icy treat features finely shaved ice topped with various ingredients, offering a sweet and refreshing way to cool down. The traditional version, Patbingsu, includes sweetened red beans (pat), condensed milk, and rice cakes (tteok) over shaved ice. It is a simple yet delightful combination that has been enjoyed for generations.

Today, bingsu comes in countless variations. Popular modern versions include:

- Fruit Bingsu: Topped with fresh fruits like strawberries, mango, or melon.

- Injeolmi Bingsu: Featuring powdered roasted soybeans and chewy rice cakes.

- Matcha Bingsu: Flavored with green tea powder and often topped with red beans and mochi.

- Chocolate Bingsu: A delicious treat with chocolate syrup, brownies, and chocolate chips.

4. Kongguksu (Soy Milk Noodle Soup)

Kongguksu is a refreshing cold noodle dish made with wheat noodles served in a creamy soy milk broth. It is a popular summer meal due to its light yet nutritious nature. The broth is made by blending soaked soybeans with water, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. The noodles are cooked separately, chilled, and then added to the soy milk broth. The dish is typically garnished with cucumber slices, tomatoes, and sometimes sesame seeds or ice cubes. Kongguksu is rich in protein and essential nutrients, thanks to the soybeans. It is an excellent option for vegetarians and those looking for a healthy, low-fat meal during the hot summer months.

5. Hwajeon (Flower Pancakes)

Hwajeon, or flower pancakes, are a traditional Korean dessert often enjoyed during spring and summer festivals. These small, colorful pancakes are made with glutinous rice flour and decorated with edible flowers. The batter only consists of glutinous rice flour, water, and a pinch of salt. Edible flowers, such as azaleas or chrysanthemums, are gently pressed into the batter before frying. The result is a beautiful and delicate pancake with a slightly sweet flavor. It is typically served with a light syrup made from honey or sugar and water. They make for an elegant and visually appealing dessert, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea on a warm summer day.

6. Dotori-muk (Acorn Jelly Salad)

Dotori-muk is a savory jelly made from acorn starch. This unique dish has a firm, gelatinous texture and is usually served as a salad, particularly in the summer. The acorn starch is mixed with water and cooked until it thickens into a jelly-like consistency. Once set, the jelly is cut into bite-sized pieces and typically mixed with vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers. The salad is then dressed with a tangy and spicy sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, chili powder, sesame oil, and vinegar. Dotori-muk is known for its refreshing and nutty flavor. The jelly's texture, combined with the crispness of the vegetables and the kick from the spicy dressing, creates a harmonious and invigorating dish that is perfect for hot summer days.

7. Jangeo-gui (Grilled Eel)

Jangeo-gui, or grilled eel, is a popular summer delicacy in Korea. Known for its rich, savory flavor and numerous health benefits, grilled eel is often consumed to regain strength and energy during the hot summer months. Since eel is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, it is a very nutritious option. It is believed to help improve stamina and overall health, which is why it is particularly popular during the energy-draining summer period. The eel is typically marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger before being grilled to perfection. It is usually served with rice, fresh vegetables, and sometimes a side of ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce). The juicy, tender meat and smoky flavor make jangeo-gui a delectable and satisfying summer dish.

8. Oi Sobagi (Stuffed Cucumber Kimchi)

Oi Sobagi is a refreshing type of kimchi made from cucumbers stuffed with a spicy filling. This crisp and tangy dish is especially popular during the summer months for its cooling properties and delightful crunch. Fresh cucumbers are slit and stuffed with a mixture of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), garlic, green onions, carrots, and sometimes salted shrimp or fish sauce. The stuffed cucumbers are then left to ferment for a short period, resulting in a kimchi that retains its crispness and has a vibrant, spicy flavor. It is often served as banchan (side dish) alongside rice and other main dishes. Its refreshing and tangy taste, combined with the crunch of the cucumbers, makes it an excellent complement to many meals, particularly in the heat of summer.

9. Chimaek (Chicken and Beer)

Chimaek, a combination of "chicken" and "maekju" (beer), is a beloved Korean food pairing, especially popular during summer. The combination of crispy fried chicken and ice-cold beer offers a perfect way to relax and enjoy warm evenings. Chimaek is often enjoyed in pubs or casual restaurants, but it is also popular as a take-out option for picnics, beach outings, or simply a night in with friends. The cold beer complements the rich flavors and crunch of the chicken, making it a staple summer treat.

10. Yeolmu Kimchi (Young Radish Kimchi)

Yeolmu Kimchi is a type of kimchi made from young radish greens, known for its refreshing taste and high nutritional value. It is particularly favored in the summer due to its light and invigorating qualities. Young radish greens are mixed with a seasoning blend of gochugaru, garlic, fish sauce, and sometimes fresh chili peppers. The mixture is left to ferment briefly, resulting in a kimchi that retains the crunch and freshness of the greens. Being typically served chilled, it is an ideal side dish to help cool down during hot weather. It pairs well with cold noodles, rice, or even as a topping for bibimbap (mixed rice bowl).

Conclusion

Korea's diverse and flavorful summer foods offer a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and refreshment. From the icy delight of bingsu to the hearty and health-boosting samgyetang, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the burning summer months. Whether you are looking for a light snack, a refreshing dessert, or a full meal to restock your energy, these dishes provide a delicious way to experience the culinary richness of Korea. So, next time you are in Korea during the summer, do not miss out on these must-try foods for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Happy eating!

Image credits:

https://i1.wp.com/seonkyounglongest.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Naengmyeon-3.jpg?fit=1300%2C731&ssl=1

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https://www.cookeatworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Samgyetang4.jpg

https://images.rove.me/w_1920,q_85/trm4tj7wlttyuziwfai4/south-korea-patbingsu.jpg

https://assets.epicurious.com/photos/64b06ce15265536910e94586/16:9/w_6397,h_3598,c_limit/Bingsu_HERO_071223_56686.jpg

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