Unveil the Most Popular Mezes You Can Enjoy in Korea

When it comes to Korean cuisine, mezes play a significant role in providing an array of flavors and textures. These small dishes, often served as appetizers or side dishes, are a fantastic way to experience the richness of Korean food culture. Let’s explore some of the most popular mezes you can enjoy in Korea.

1. Kimchi
Kimchi is perhaps the most iconic Korean dish. This fermented vegetable dish, often made with napa cabbage and radish, is seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and various other ingredients. Kimchi not only serves as a staple side dish but also enhances the flavor of any main course. It is both spicy and tangy, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice or noodles.

2. Jeon
Jeon refers to a variety of savory Korean pancakes, made with flour and various ingredients like green onions, seafood, or kimchi. These pancake-like bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and are often enjoyed with a dipping sauce of soy sauce mixed with vinegar. Jeon is particularly popular during rainy days or festive occasions.

3. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki consists of chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy-sweet gochujang (red chili paste) sauce. This dish is a beloved street food in Korea, often garnished with boiled eggs, fish cakes, and scallions. The combination of textures and flavors makes tteokbokki a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

4. Bibimbap
While bibimbap is primarily known as a main dish, its nature as a medley of various side ingredients makes it a delightful meze as well. This colorful rice bowl is topped with assorted vegetables, beef, a fried egg, and a dollop of gochujang. Each ingredient can be enjoyed separately or mixed together, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.

5. Gyeran-jjim
Gyeran-jjim, or Korean steamed egg, is a soft and fluffy dish that is often enjoyed as a comforting side. Made with beaten eggs, water, and often flavored with scallions or other vegetables, this meze offers a gentle contrast to stronger flavors, making it a great addition to any meal.

6. Oi Muchim
Oi muchim is a refreshing cucumber salad that typically includes thinly sliced cucumbers, sesame oil, vinegar, and chili flakes. This side dish provides a crisp and tangy contrast to heartier dishes and is particularly popular during the hot summer months.

7. Namul
Namul refers to a variety of seasoned vegetables that can include spinach, bean sprouts, or zucchini. Each vegetable is prepared separately, then seasoned with garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. Namul is not only healthy but also adds color and texture to any Korean meal.

8. Dakgangjeong
This dish consists of sweet and crispy fried chicken, coated in a sticky sauce that often includes soy sauce, garlic, and sugar. While it can be a main dish, it is frequently served as a meze at gatherings, providing a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with beer.

9. Sigeumchi-namul
Sigeumchi-namul is a seasoned spinach side dish that is cooked and then tossed with sesame oil and garlic. This nutritious and flavorful dish is a staple in Korean cuisine, often enjoyed as part of a banchan spread.

10. Kkaennip-jeon
This unique pancake is made from perilla leaves, which are lightly batter-fried until crispy. With a distinct flavor that combines minty and nutty notes, kkaennip-jeon is an excellent addition to any Korean meal, offering a fresh twist.

These mezes not only highlight the diversity of Korean flavors but also offer a delicious way to start your meal or enjoy them as snacks. Whether you are dining in a restaurant or trying your hand at cooking at home, these popular mezes are a must-try for anyone looking to explore the rich culinary landscape of Korea.