Best Korean Mezes You Can Taste in Traditional Korean Restaurants

Korean cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavors and diverse culinary offerings. Among the most cherished aspects of Korean dining are 'mezes' or side dishes, known as 'banchan'. These small plates accompany main meals and provide an explosion of taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at some of the best Korean mezes you can taste in traditional Korean restaurants.

1. Kimchi
Kimchi is perhaps the most iconic Korean side dish. Made from fermented vegetables, typically napa cabbage and Korean radishes, kimchi is seasoned with chili powder, garlic, ginger, and various other spices. Its tangy and spicy flavor makes it a perfect complement to any Korean meal.

2. Japchae
This sweet potato noodle dish is stir-fried with a mix of vegetables, meat (often beef), and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. The combination of textures and the subtle sweetness of the noodles creates a delightful experience that pairs well with other dishes.

3. Pajeon
Korean pancakes, or pajeon, are made with a batter of wheat flour, eggs, and green onions. They can also include seafood or other vegetables. Served hot and crispy, pajeon is often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar, making it a tasty and savory option.

4. Kkakdugi
This is a type of kimchi made with diced radish. Kkakdugi is refreshing and crunchy, providing a contrast to the richer flavors of other dishes. It's particularly effective at cleansing the palate during a meal.

5. Oisobagi
Oisobagi is a spicy stuffed cucumber kimchi. The cucumbers are hollowed out and filled with a mix of chili paste, garlic, and other seasonings. This dish is especially popular during the summer months for its refreshing flavor.

6. Miyeok-guk
This seaweed soup is traditionally consumed during birthdays but is a beloved dish that can be found as a side in many Korean meals. Made with wakame (seaweed), beef, and a tasty broth, miyeok-guk provides essential nutrients and a deep umami flavor.

7. Sigeumchi-namul
This seasoned spinach dish is lightly blanched and dressed with sesame oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Sigeumchi-namul is a healthy and nutritious side that balances out richer dishes perfectly.

8. Tofu Jorim
This dish features tofu simmered in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and green onions. The tofu absorbs the flavors of the sauce, creating a soft and comforting accompaniment to rice or other main dishes.

9. Kongnamul Muchim
Kongnamul, or seasoned soybean sprouts, are blanched and tossed with sesame oil, garlic, and sometimes a dash of soy sauce. This dish is refreshing and packed with nutrients, showcasing the simple yet profound flavors of Korean cuisine.

10. Gamja Jorim
These braised potatoes are cooked until tender in a sweet soy sauce mixture. The soft caramelized potatoes are comforting and often enjoyed by both adults and children alike.

When dining at a traditional Korean restaurant, don't miss the opportunity to experience these delectable mezes. Each banchan offers a unique taste of Korea’s rich culinary heritage, enhancing your meal and providing a spectrum of flavors that will leave you craving more. Enjoy the experience, and savor every bite!