Korean food: discover the tradition of local cuisine
Korean food has been gaining a good place in the hearts of Brazilians.
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This is because, if previously only China and Japan dominated the oriental food market here, currently Korean restaurants have appeared a lot.
But, contrary to what many believe, Korean food is not directly related to other Eastern cuisines, as it has a unique personality.
And, if you've always wanted to try it, but don't know where to start, today's material can help.
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So, if you want to discover the best dishes of Korean culture, come with us!
From dramas to real life: who has never wanted to try Korean food?
For a long time, Korean culture was not so present in Brazilians' daily lives.
And the reason for this may be the lack of media relations that existed between the two countries.
Therefore, we did not have as much access to Korean customs, artistic productions and cuisine.
However, in recent years this has changed, so that Dramas and the beloved K-pop have become popular in South America's largest country.
And, if you've already watched at least 1 episode of a Drama, you've certainly already salivated over the dishes.
This is because everything looks very appetizing, and, although they have some similarities with Japanese and Chinese cuisine, the dishes carry a particular personality.
And, speaking of personality, this is certainly the word that best defines Korean cuisine.
This is because the dishes are full of flavor, unique techniques and seasonings.
Furthermore, the versatility of Korean cuisine is very interesting, as it goes far beyond the famous sushi (which is called kimbap there).
And, especially if you're planning to visit South Korea, it's worth staying up to date with the best Korean food.
Below we present the best and most traditional dishes from this country, so don't miss out!
Bibimbap
You can't talk about Korean food and not mention the famous bibimbap, which in literal translation means mixed rice or mixed food.
And, from that name, you can already have an idea of what to expect, but if you're thinking of a simple rice dish with side dishes, forget that idea.
This is because bibimbap is a dish prepared in a volcanic bowl, consisting of rice, meat and vegetables.
The real kicker of this dish is the bowl, which offers a very high temperature.
In this way, all components of the dish come into contact with this temperature, which helps in the formation of a crust that provides texture and a certain caramelization.
It is worth mentioning that this is a very traditional dish, which can be found very easily in Korean restaurants.
It is very common for the dish to consist of rice, fried egg, legumes and vegetables such as: carrots, mushrooms, chard, seaweed and many others.
Furthermore, in some versions it is common to have meat or fish.
Finally, a very tasty sauce finishes the dish, giving the succulence that is so important to bibimbap.
Kimchi
Kimchi is certainly one of the most important dishes (or ingredients) in Korean cuisine.
This is because kimchi is widely used as a flavor element in the creation of other dishes, although Koreans also consume it as the main element.
We can consider kimchi a Korean culinary technique, as it is basically a seasoned and fermented vegetable.
This guarantees a peppery and acidic flavor that accompanies a slight sweetness from the fermentation of the vegetables.
In general, there is no specific meal for consuming this dish, as it represents the basis of the Korean diet.
Therefore, you can find a restaurant selling kimchi in Korea at any time.
It is very common for Koreans to use kimchi to compose, season or even fill other dishes.
So, you know: if you want to know the basics of Korean food, you can't miss kimchi.
Korean Barbecue: Bulgogi
You may have already thought that beef consumption is not that common in Korea.
But, know that Koreans have the honor of having one of the best barbecues in the world.
This is because Korean barbecue is very different from what we usually see here in Brazil.
To begin with, the meats don't come ready from the kitchen there: the waiter gives you the meats and side dishes and you grill them yourself at the table.
Therefore, tables in this type of restaurant in Korea usually have a special compartment for preparing barbecue.
The main characteristic of bulgogi is precisely the thin pieces, which can be grilled quickly on a plate or grill.
As side dishes, it is common to see vegetables, legumes, kimchi and Korean pepper.
Everything is cooked on the same grill, which offers a complementary and very special flavor.
In addition to the food itself, this dish is also a complete experience.
Therefore, this is an excellent Korean food option to try on a trip!
Kimbap
And finally, we come to the Korean food option that Brazilians are most curious about: kimbap.
If you've ever seen this dish on TV, you've certainly noticed the similarity in appearance to the famous Japanese sushi.
However, it is worth saying that the similarities between the two dishes are only in appearance, as the flavors are very different.
This is because, although kimbap is also wrapped in rice and seaweed, the filling is very different.
Starting with the meat, which in addition to not being limited to fish, is also not raw.
So, it is very common to find beef and even chicken kimbap, or eggs.
Furthermore, vegetables and fruits are true protagonists in kimbap, as they help to add flavor and texture.
The most used vegetables and fruits are: carrots, mango, avocado, seaweed and kimchi.
This wonderful filling is surrounded by a thin layer of rice, covered in seaweed.
Another unique feature of kimchi is its shape, as the slices are very thin, and the aesthetics of the inside is very important.
So, if you are looking for an explosion of flavors, this is the ideal dish!
Mandu
And, the last component on our Korean food list is mandu.
You may have noticed a certain similarity between mandu and the famous Chinese gyoza.
And, in fact, they are very similar dishes, with the difference that mandu is always steamed, while gyoza can also be cooked in a frying pan.
The dough is made up of just water and flour, and the thinner the better.
Regarding the fillings, these can be of the most diverse types, but the most common is seasoned pork.
It is also common to find vegetable mandu, and even kimchi.
The flavors are very striking, and the most interesting thing is that the pasta practically disappears in the mouth due to its delicacy.
Furthermore, the mandu is also very juicy and tender, thanks to steam cooking.
So, if you are looking for different dishes with personality, Korean food is out there!
See also: Typical Argentine foods – 6 options to try during the tour