Traditional Korean Dinner Recipes That Are Easy to Make

Korean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and balance of textures. Traditional Korean dinners often feature a variety of side dishes (banchan) alongside a main course, making them both delicious and satisfying. If you’re looking to explore the culinary landscape of Korea, here are some easy-to-make traditional Korean dinner recipes that you can try at home.

Bulgogi (Marinated Beef)

Bulgogi is a classic favorite, known for its sweet and savory flavor. This marinated beef dish is quick to prepare and cook.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and black pepper.
  2. Add the sliced beef and onion, making sure they are well-coated in the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated beef along with onions. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
  4. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with steamed rice.

Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

This comforting stew is perfect for cold days and is a great way to use up older kimchi.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups kimchi, chopped
  • 1/2 lb pork belly or tofu, cubed
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
  • 3 cups water or broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, sauté the pork belly or tofu until browned.
  2. Add the sliced onion and kimchi, cooking for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the water or broth, soy sauce, and gochugaru. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)

Japchae is a popular dish made with sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat, all stir-fried together.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz sweet potato noodles
  • 1/2 cup beef or chicken (optional), sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions:

  1. Cook the sweet potato noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the meat (if using) until cooked through, then add the onions and carrots. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
  3. Add bell peppers and spinach, stirring until wilted.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss in the stir-fried vegetables and mix well.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Galbi (Korean BBQ Ribs)

Galbi features tender beef short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory