Korean Food Culture: A Brief History of Regional and Variant Cuisines

by Joost Nusselder Updated:  June 18, 2022

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The Korean cuisine has evolved over the years. It’s been influenced by the country’s geography, climate, and agricultural practices. The Korean people have a unique way of preparing their food and believe in communal dining.

Let’s look at the evolution of Korean cuisine and how it’s shaped the way we eat today.

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The Evolution of Korean Cuisine: A Brief History

Korean food culture has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The traditional Korean meal includes rice, soup, and a variety of side dishes known as banchan. Koreans believe that communal dining is important, and meals are often shared with family and friends.

The Significance of Rice and Starch in Korean Cuisine

Rice is a staple in Korean cuisine and is consumed at almost every meal. Koreans have been cultivating rice for over 4,000 years, and it has played a significant role in their diet and culture. Starches such as sweet potato and white potato are also commonly consumed.

The Influence of Nature on Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is heavily influenced by the country’s geography and climate. Korea is surrounded by the sea, and seafood is a significant part of the Korean diet. Grilled and raw seafood dishes are popular, and Koreans are known for their love of spicy food. The cheongyang pepper is a special Korean chilli pepper that is often used in Korean cuisine.

The Importance of Etiquette in Korean Dining

Korean dining etiquette is an essential part of the food culture. Diners are expected to use a spoon and chopsticks and to pour drinks for others before pouring for themselves. The serving of food is also significant, and dishes are often placed in the center of the table for communal sharing.

Nature’s Role in Shaping Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine has evolved over time, but its roots are firmly planted in nature, as with much of Asian cuisine. The country’s geography, climate, and agricultural practices have all played a significant role in shaping the cuisine we know and love today. Here are some of the ways nature has influenced Korean cuisine:

• Vegetarian and vegan options: Korean cuisine features a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, which are often made with fresh vegetables and other natural ingredients.
• Unique ingredients: Many of the ingredients used in Korean cuisine are specific to the country, such as gochujang (a spicy red pepper paste) and doenjang (a fermented soybean paste).
• Special preparation techniques: Some dishes, such as kimchi, are prepared using specific techniques that have been handed down through generations.
• Significant dishes: Certain dishes, such as bibimbap and bulgogi, are considered mainstays of Korean cuisine and are enjoyed by people all over the world.

The Role of Nature in Cooking Styles

The way Korean food is prepared and cooked is also heavily influenced by nature. Here are some examples:

• Grilling: Korean barbecue is a popular way of cooking meat, which is often grilled over an open flame.
• Fermentation: Fermentation is a key technique used in Korean cuisine, which helps to preserve food and give it a unique flavor.
• Steaming: Steaming is another common cooking method in Korean cuisine, which helps to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

One of the defining features of Korean cuisine is its use of fresh, natural ingredients. Despite the increasing availability of modern cooking techniques and ingredients, many Korean restaurants still prioritize using fresh, locally sourced produce. Here are some of the benefits of using fresh ingredients:

• Longer shelf life: Fresh ingredients can be stored for longer periods of time, which helps to reduce waste and save money.
• Better flavor: Fresh ingredients have a more vibrant and complex flavor than their processed counterparts.
• Healthier: Fresh ingredients are often more nutritious than processed foods, which can be high in sugar, salt, and other additives.

The Evolution of Korean Cuisine: A Journey Through the Flavors of Korea

Korean cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh and natural ingredients, particularly vegetables. The use of plants and vegetables in Korean cuisine dates back centuries, originating from the ancient agricultural practices of the Korean people. The complex use of vegetables in Korean cuisine reflects the strong connection between the Korean people and their environment.

• Unlike in Western cuisine, where vegetables are often seen as a side dish, in Korean cuisine, vegetables are a main component of many dishes.
• Correct techniques for preparing vegetables are crucial to protect their nutritional value and flavor.
• The Korean cuisine includes a wide range of vegetables, from wild mountain herbs and greens to preserved vegetables.
• The typical Korean diet is largely vegetarian, with rice and vegetables being the main staples.
• Soy, rice, pine nuts, and other plants are also incorporated into many dishes, making it easy to add nutritional benefits to the foods.

The Role of Social and Political Interaction in Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine reflects the interaction between the environment, cultural traditions, and social and political development.

• The pungent flavor of Korean cuisine is a result of the use of garlic, ginger, and other spices, which were introduced to Korea through trade with China and other countries.
• The development of Korean cuisine was also influenced by the agricultural practices of the nomadic tribes that lived in Korea before the arrival of the Korean people.
• The development of Korean cuisine was also influenced by the social and political changes that took place in Korea over the centuries, with different regions developing their own unique styles of cuisine.

The Evolution of Korean Cuisine: A Look at the Diverse and Flavorful Dishes

Korean cuisine is largely categorized by its staple foods, with rice being the most important ingredient. Bap, or cooked rice, is a staple dish that is usually served with every meal. Other staple dishes include:

• Juk: a type of rice porridge that is often served for breakfast
• Guksu: a noodle dish made with wheat flour
• Banchan: small side dishes that are served with every meal

Beef and Seafood Dishes

Beef and seafood are common ingredients in Korean cuisine. Some popular beef dishes include:

• Bulgogi: thinly sliced beef that is marinated and grilled
• Galbi: beef short ribs that are marinated and grilled
• Seolleongtang: a soup made with beef bones and meat

Seafood dishes are also popular, with some of the most common including:

• Haemul pajeon: a savory pancake made with seafood and vegetables
• Jjigae: a spicy soup that can contain seafood, beef, or chicken
• Eomuk: a fish cake that is often added to soups and stews

Cakes and Soups

Cakes and soups are also an important part of Korean cuisine. Some popular cakes include:

• Songpyeon: a small rice cake that is usually filled with sweet ingredients like honey or sesame seeds
• Hotteok: a sweet pancake that is filled with brown sugar and nuts

Soups and stews are also popular, with some of the most common including:

• Doenjang jjigae: a soybean paste stew that is often served with vegetables and tofu
• Kimchi jjigae: a spicy stew that contains kimchi and various meats or seafood
• Sundubu jjigae: a spicy tofu stew that is usually served with seafood or beef

Cooking Techniques and Seasoning

Korean cuisine is known for its unique cooking techniques and seasoning. Some of the most common techniques include:

• Burning: a technique used to add a smoky flavor to meat and vegetables
• Seasoning: a process that involves marinating meat or seafood in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and other spices

Korean cuisine also uses a variety of seasonings, including:

• Gochujang: a spicy red pepper paste that is used in many dishes
• Doenjang: a fermented soybean paste that is used to flavor soups and stews
• Ganjang: a soy sauce that is used to season meat and vegetables

Changes and Varieties

Over the years, Korean cuisine has undergone many changes and has developed a variety of regional and variant cuisines. Some of the most popular varieties include:

• Jeju cuisine: a cuisine that is associated with the island of Jeju and is known for its fresh seafood and vegetables
• Royal cuisine: a cuisine that was once reserved for the royal family and is known for its intricate preparation and presentation
• New Korean cuisine: a modern version of Korean cuisine that incorporates new ingredients and cooking techniques

Korean cuisine continues to evolve and change, with new dishes and recipes being created all the time. Whether you’re a fan of spicy stews or savory pancakes, there’s something for everyone in Korean cuisine.

The Sweet Side of Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is not just about savory flavors, but also has a wide range of sweet dishes that are worth trying. Here are some traditional sweet dishes that are commonly served in Korea:

• Ginger candy: Made from finely chopped ginger and sugar, this candy is boiled in water until it solidifies and is then cut into pieces.
• Sweet potatoes: Steamed or boiled sweet potatoes are a popular snack in Korea, especially during the winter months.
• Red bean paste: Known as “pat” in Korean, this sweet paste is made from boiled and mashed red beans and is used as a filling for various Korean sweets.
• Rice cakes: Called “tteok” in Korean, these are made from glutinous rice flour and can be shaped into various forms. They are often served with a sweet syrup or fruit juice.
• Fermented beverages: South Korea has a long history of producing fermented beverages, such as rice wine and fruit wines, which are often served as sweet drinks.

Chinese Influences

Korean cuisine has been influenced by Chinese cuisine, and this is also true for sweet dishes. Some sweet dishes that have Chinese origins include:

• Black sesame soup: Made from black sesame seeds, this sweet soup is similar to Chinese desserts and is often served hot.
• Ginger tea: Known as “saenggang cha” in Korean, this tea is made from ginger and is a popular drink during the colder months.
• Jujube tea: Made from jujube fruit, this sweet tea is believed to have medicinal properties and is often served as a hot drink.

Modern Sweet Dishes

Korean cuisine has evolved over the years, and this is also true for sweet dishes. Some modern sweet dishes that have become popular in recent years include:

• Honey butter chips: These potato chips are coated with a sweet honey butter sauce and have become a popular snack in Korea.
• Bingsu: This shaved ice dessert is topped with various sweet toppings, such as fruit, syrup, and condensed milk.
• Milkis: This carbonated beverage is a combination of milk and soda and is a popular drink in Korea.

Ingredients and Preparation

The ingredients and preparation methods for sweet dishes in Korea vary widely, depending on the dish and the region. Some important things to know about sweet dishes in Korea include:

• Glutinous rice flour is often used in sweet dishes, as it gives a chewy texture.
• Sesame seeds and oil are commonly used in sweet dishes, as they add a nutty flavor.
• Sugar is often used to sweeten dishes, but excess sugar is avoided due to dietary restrictions.
• Syrup is often applied to sweet dishes to add sweetness and thickness.
• Proper preparation of sweet dishes can be difficult, as the thickness of the syrup and the consistency of the ingredients can vary depending on the materials used.
• Sweet dishes are often classified according to the type of material used, such as solid or liquid.

Regional and Variant Cuisines: The Evolution of Korean Cuisine Continues

Korean cuisine is not just one set of dishes, but rather a vast variety of foods that differ depending on the region. Here are some examples of regional Korean dishes:

• Jeolla-do province is known for its fine and delicate cuisine, with dishes like Jeonju bibimbap and Kongnamul gukbap, a soup made with soybean sprouts.
• Gangwon-do province, located in the northeast, is famous for its buckwheat dishes such as makguksu, a cold noodle dish served with a spicy sauce.
• Gyeongsang-do province, located in the southeast, is known for its hearty and spicy cuisine, with dishes like dwaeji gukbap, a pork soup with rice.

Variant Cuisines: Differences in Ingredients and Cooking Techniques

Even within the same region, there can be significant differences in the way a dish is prepared. For example:

• Kimchi, a dish made of fermented vegetables, can be prepared in multiple ways depending on the region and the cook. Some regions use more salt, while others use more red pepper flakes.
• Bibimbap, a rice dish with various toppings, can be served in a stone bowl or a regular bowl, with the ingredients arranged in a specific set order or mixed together.
• Bulgogi, a dish made of marinated beef, can be prepared with different cuts of meat and marinades depending on the restaurant or the region.

Evolution of Korean Cuisine: From Traditional to Modern

Korean cuisine has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with a wide range of new dishes and cooking styles emerging. Some of the changes include:

• The rise of vegan and vegetarian cuisine, with many restaurants now offering meat-free options.
• The use of modern cooking techniques such as sous-vide and molecular gastronomy.
• The spread of Korean cuisine to other countries, with Korean restaurants popping up all over the world.

However, despite these changes, traditional Korean cuisine remains an important part of Korean culture. Dishes like bulgogi, kimchi, and bibimbap are still commonly consumed, and the vast majority of Korean meals still include rice as a staple food.

Special Cuisines: Royal, Buddhist, and Temple Food

In addition to regional and variant cuisines, there are also special types of Korean cuisine that are linked to specific traditions and settings:

• Royal cuisine, also known as court cuisine, originated in the Joseon dynasty and is characterized by its use of high-quality ingredients and elaborate presentation.
• Buddhist cuisine, also known as temple food, is prepared without meat and is thought to be suitable for spiritual practice.
• Fine dining restaurants in Korea often serve special set menus that showcase the chef’s skills and creativity.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Korean dishes or you prefer the modern and innovative styles, Korean cuisine has something for everyone. So why not try a bowl of bibimbap or a plate of bulgogi the next time you’re out for dinner?

The Do’s and Don’ts of Korean Table Etiquette

When it comes to Korean cuisine, etiquette plays a significant role in the dining experience. The traditional Korean table setup consists of a low table, a cushion to sit on, and a bapsang (a set of dishes and bowls). The rice is served in a metal or stainless-steel bowl, and diners cover it with a lid to keep it warm. The setup also includes a soup bowl, chopsticks, and a spoon.

Proper Way to Eat Rice

Rice is an essential element of Korean cuisine, and there is a proper way to eat it. The bowl of rice is set to the diner’s right, and they should pick it up with their right hand. It is important to take only what you can eat and not waste any food. When eating rice, it is customary to hold the bowl close to your mouth and use chopsticks to pick up the rice.

Rules for Eating Other Dishes

When it comes to eating other dishes, there are certain rules to follow. For example, it is important to pick up hot vegetables with chopsticks and not your hands. When making a wrap with lettuce or other greens, it is important to use your right hand. If you are serving food to someone else, use the serving spoons provided, and never use your own chopsticks or spoon to pick up food from a communal dish.

Drinking Etiquette

Drinking is also a significant part of Korean dining etiquette. When pouring drinks, it is important to pour for the eldest person first and then move down the line to the youngest. Women traditionally pour drinks for men, and younger people pour for their elders. It is also important to never pour your own drink and always wait for someone else to pour it for you.

Conversation and Other Etiquette Tips

In addition to the rules for eating and drinking, there are other etiquette tips to keep in mind. When eating, it is important to eat slowly and take your time. It is also considered impolite to throw away food or touch items with your hands that are meant to be eaten with utensils. When speaking, it is important to remain respectful and avoid controversial topics. If you are a guest, it is important to refuse food or drink at least once before accepting it.

The Art of Setting the Korean Table

When it comes to Korean cuisine, the table setting is just as important as the food itself. The way dishes are arranged and served can vary depending on the occasion, the region, and the type of restaurant. In this section, we’ll explore the traditional Korean table setting and some of the elements that make it unique.

The Typical Korean Table Setting

The Korean table setting consists of a large table with a steel or wooden cover, where diners sit on the floor on cushions. The table is normally set with a variety of dishes and bowls, including:

• A bowl of steamed rice, which is the center of the meal and the main source of starch.
• A number of small dishes, which are placed around the rice bowl and contain a variety of ingredients, both sweet and spicy. These dishes can include kimchi, pickled vegetables, boiled or grilled meat or seafood, and more.
• A soup or stew, which is served directly in a large pot and contains a variety of ingredients, depending on the type of soup or stew. Some examples include doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew), galbitang (beef short rib soup), and samgyetang (chicken ginseng soup).
• A cover or lid, which is placed on top of the rice bowl to keep it warm.
• A set of chopsticks and a spoon, which are used to eat the food.

The Role of Meat and Seafood

Despite the reputation of Korean cuisine as being mostly vegetarian, meat and seafood are also commonly consumed. Some of the most popular types of meat and seafood include:

• Beef, which is often grilled or boiled and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
• Pork, which is often used in stews and soups.
• Chicken, which is often served in soups and stews or grilled.
• Fish, which is often grilled or boiled and served with a variety of dipping sauces.

The Importance of Table Setting in Korean Culture

Despite the numerous variations of table settings available, the traditional Korean table setting is still considered the most superior and pure. Many Korean companies that manufacture tableware and utensils consider the traditional Korean style to be the most important and offer a wide range of products that are specifically designed for this style of dining. Despite the going forth of vegetarianism, meat and seafood are still considered to be of keen importance in Korean cuisine.

Conclusion

So, that’s how the Korean cuisine has evolved over the years. 

It’s been influenced by the country’s geography, climate, and agricultural practices, as well as the culture of the people. 

I hope you’ve learned a lot about the Korean cuisine from this article.

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.