Unique Korean Breakfast Recipes to Try Today

Korean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and unique ingredients. While most of the world knows about Korean BBQ and kimchi, many aren’t familiar with the delicious breakfast options that start the day in Korea. Here are some unique Korean breakfast recipes you should try today.

1. Sungnyung ( scorched rice soup)

This traditional dish is made by boiling burnt rice in water, resulting in a smoky flavor that's comforting and delicious. To make sungnyung:

Take the leftover rice that’s stuck to the bottom of a pot.
Add water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Strain the rice, serve the broth in a bowl, and enjoy!

2. Gyeran-jjim (steamed egg custard)

Gyeran-jjim is a fluffy Korean egg custard that’s light and perfect for breakfast. Here’s how to make it:

Beat 3 eggs with a pinch of salt in a bowl.
Add 1 cup of water or chicken broth for more flavor.
Pour the mixture into a heatproof dish and cover it with a lid or foil.
Steam over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, until it’s set.
Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!

3. Doenjang-jjigae (fermented soybean paste stew)

This savory stew is often enjoyed at breakfast, packed with vegetables and tofu. To prepare doenjang-jjigae:

In a pot, add water and a few tablespoons of doenjang (fermented soybean paste).
Bring to a boil, then add cubed tofu, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Cook for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Serve hot with steamed rice for a hearty meal.

4. Kimchi Fried Rice (Kimchi Bokkeumbap)

A classic Korean dish, kimchi fried rice is a perfect way to use up leftover rice and kimchi. Here’s a simple recipe:

Heat oil in a frying pan and add diced onions.
Once the onions are translucent, add chopped kimchi and stir-fry.
Add cold, leftover rice and mix well.
For a finishing touch, fry an egg on top and garnish with sesame seeds.

5. Hotteok (sweet pancakes)

These sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon make for a delightful breakfast treat. To make hotteok:

Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and water to create a dough. Allow it to rise for 1 hour.
In a bowl, combine brown sugar, crushed nuts, and cinnamon for the filling.
Divide the dough into small balls, flatten them, and place the filling in the center. Seal and flatten again.
Fry in a pan until golden brown on both sides.

6. Banchan (side dishes)

No Korean breakfast is complete without banchan. These small side dishes can include:

Korean pickled radishes (danmuji)
Seasoned spinach (sigeumchi-namul)
Description oskoots (myeolchi-jorim)

Banchan adds variety and flavor to your breakfast table, making it both nutritious and delicious.

Conclusion

Exploring unique Korean breakfast recipes opens up a world of flavors that are both delicious and nutritious. From hearty stews to sweet pancakes, these dishes can elevate your morning routine. Try incorporating these recipes into your breakfast repertoire and enjoy the delightful taste of Korea every day.