Top Korean Mezes That Reflect Traditional Korean Cooking

Korean cuisine is renowned for its intricate flavors, vibrant colors, and an array of unique dishes. Among the array of Korean foods, mezes—or small plates—are particularly popular, offering a taste of traditional cooking techniques and a blend of ingredients that showcase the country's culinary heritage. Here, we explore some of the top Korean mezes that reflect traditional Korean cooking.

1. Kimchi
Kimchi is perhaps the most iconic of all Korean dishes, serving as a staple in nearly every Korean meal. It is a fermented vegetable dish, most commonly made with napa cabbage and Korean radishes, seasoned with a variety of spices, including chili powder, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. This tangy and spicy side dish not only adds flavor but is also rich in probiotics, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

2. Banchan
Banchan refers to a variety of small side dishes served alongside the main course in traditional Korean meals. These can include pickled vegetables, sautéed greens, and stews made from tofu and seafood. Each family often has its own unique recipes and combinations of banchan, making it an essential part of Korean dining culture that emphasizes balance and variety.

3. Japchae
Japchae is a savory-sweet stir-fried dish made with glass noodles, made from sweet potato starch, and mixed with an assortment of vegetables and marinated beef or other proteins. It is flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil, giving it a delightful taste and unique texture. This dish is not only popular during festive occasions but is also enjoyed as a simple everyday meal.

4. Mandu
Mandu are Korean dumplings that can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried. These bite-sized treats are typically filled with a mixture of minced meat, tofu, and vegetables. Served with a soy-based dipping sauce, mandu are a popular appetizer that reflects the Korean culinary tradition of mixing flavors and textures.

5. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a beloved street food made from chewy rice cakes cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste). Often topped with fish cakes and green onions, this dish embodies the balance of flavors and textures that are central to Korean cuisine. It’s a delightful snack that has gained wide popularity both in Korea and internationally.

6. Gyeran Jjik
This traditional Korean steamed egg custard is a light and fluffy dish made with eggs, water or broth, and often includes scallions and other ingredients for added flavor. Gyeran jjik is a comforting meze that highlights the simplicity and natural taste of the ingredients, showcasing one of the many ways that Korean cooking embraces wholesome food.

7. Oi Muchim
Oi muchim is a refreshing cucumber salad that is simple yet packed with flavor. It typically includes thinly sliced cucumbers mixed with garlic, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, and vinegar. This side dish brings a crunchy texture and a slightly spicy kick, providing a perfect contrast to heavier dishes during a traditional Korean meal.

8. Namul
Namul refers to a variety of seasoned vegetables. This dish can include anything from spinach to bean sprouts, all lightly sautéed and seasoned with sesame oil, salt, and garlic. Namul is a testament to traditional Korean cooking's focus on freshness and simplicity, often served as part of banchan.

These top Korean mezes not only reflect the rich culinary traditions of Korea but also showcase the wide array of flavors, textures, and health benefits inherent in the cuisine. Whether you're enjoying these dishes at a traditional Korean restaurant or trying to recreate them at home, they offer a delicious glimpse into the heart of Korean cooking.