The Most Delicious Korean Mezes You Should Taste

Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and diverse range of dishes. Among these, mezes—small plates or appetizers—play a crucial role in Korean dining culture. Here’s a look at some of the most delicious Korean mezes you should taste.

1. Kimchi
Kimchi is perhaps the most iconic Korean side dish. This fermented vegetable dish, usually made with napa cabbage and Korean radishes, is seasoned with a variety of spices, including gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), garlic, and ginger. Not only is kimchi packed with flavor, but it also provides numerous health benefits due to its probiotic content.

2. Mandu
Mandu are Korean dumplings filled with a mix of ingredients, which can include pork, beef, vegetables, or tofu. These can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, offering a delightful balance of textures. Often served with dipping sauces, mandu adds a hearty touch to any Korean meal.

3. Pajeon
This savory pancake is made with scallions and a batter of flour and water, creating a crispy exterior with a soft interior. Pajeon can also include additional ingredients like seafood or vegetables. It’s a popular dish during rainy days and is often accompanied by a soy-based dipping sauce that enhances its flavors.

4. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki consists of chewy rice cakes stir-fried in a sweet and spicy sauce made primarily from gochujang. This dish is beloved for its satisfying texture and bold flavors, often garnished with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and green onions. Perfect for street food lovers, tteokbokki is a must-try Korean meze.

5. Japchae
This stir-fried noodle dish is made with sweet potato starch noodles, mixed with a variety of vegetables, and sometimes beef or other proteins. The noodles have a unique chewy texture and are seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic, making japchae a flavorful and delightful addition to any meal.

6. Gyeran-jjim
Gyeran-jjim is a Korean steamed egg custard that is light, fluffy, and filled with umami flavors. This dish is usually made with eggs, water or broth, and various seasonings, including soy sauce and scallions. It serves as a comforting side dish, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a part of a larger meal.

7. Kimbap
Kimbap, often referred to as Korean sushi, consists of steamed white rice and various fillings wrapped in seaweed. Common fillings include pickled vegetables, egg, and beef or tuna, making kimbap a versatile and portable meze. It’s perfect for picnics or as a snack on the go.

8. Stone Pot Korean Rice (Dolsot Bibimbap)
Dolsot bibimbap is a unique take on the traditional bibimbap, served in a sizzling stone pot. This dish features rice layered with vegetables, meat, and often a fried egg on top. The heat from the pot gives the rice a crispy bottom, adding extra texture to this colorful and nutritious meal.

9. Spicy Fish Cake Soup (Eomuk Tang)
Eomuk tang is a warm and comforting fish cake soup, seasoned with soy sauce and chilis. The fish cakes are typically made from ground fish and various fillers, providing a savory and satisfying start to a meal. This soup is not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with friends or family.

10. Pickled Vegetables (Jangajji)
Jangajji are pickled vegetables that add a crunchy, tangy element to any Korean spread. Typically made with cucumbers, radishes, or green onions, these pickles can range from sweet to spicy. Their vibrant flavors often complement heartier dishes, making them an essential part of Korean cuisine.

Exploring these delicious Korean mezes will give you a taste of the rich culinary traditions of Korea. Whether you are dining at a restaurant or trying your hand at making these dishes at home, each meze offers a unique experience that will surely tantalize your taste buds.