Discover the Best Korean Seafood for Every Season

South Korea, a nation renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, offers a plethora of seafood options throughout the year. With each season bringing its own specialties, discovering the best Korean seafood can be an exciting culinary journey. Here’s a seasonal guide to help you savor the freshest and most delicious seafood available in Korea.

Spring Delights: Hwae and Gejang

As spring emerges, a variety of seafood comes into season. One of the most popular dishes is hwae, which refers to fresh, raw fish, typically served with spicy sauces and side dishes. This is the perfect time to try yellowtail (광어) and flatfish (방어) hwae.

Another standout spring dish is gejang, marinated raw crabs. The soft-shell crabs, often called yangnyeom gejang, are exquisite during this season, as they are filled with rich roe. The sweet and savory marinade, made from soy sauce and spices, enhances the natural flavors of the crab.

Summer Sensations: Sliced Raw Fish and Chilled Soups

As the heat intensifies in summer, the seafood scene shifts to refreshing dishes. Sliced raw fish (회) continues to be a favorite, with options like mackerel and squid becoming increasingly popular. A perfect accompaniment to this is mul nengmyeon, a refreshing cold noodle dish served in a tangy broth, often garnished with slices of fish.

In coastal regions, summer brings a variety of shellfish like clams (조개) and oysters (굴). Grilled or enjoyed fresh with a squeeze of lemon, these mollusks are abundant, making them a must-try during the summer months.

Autumn Abundance: Squid and Saury

As autumn arrives, Korean seafood shines with the arrival of oysters (굴) and saury (꽁치). November marks the peak season for saury, known for its rich flavor and ease of preparation. Grilled saury, often served with a side of rice and kimchi, is a staple in many Korean households during this time.

Autumn is also the season for jang-eo, or freshwater eel, which is considered a delicacy. Grilled eel, often marinated in a sweet soy sauce glaze, provides a hearty meal that is both tasty and nutritious.

Winter Warmers: Abalone and Snow Crab

In the chill of winter, seafood takes on a different character, with richer, heartier options. Abalone (전복), prized for its tender meat and nutritional benefits, is often enjoyed in stews or as a grilled delicacy, providing warmth and comfort during the cold months.

Snow crab (꽃게), with its sweet and succulent meat, becomes a favorite during winter. Often enjoyed in hot pots or steamed, this seafood dish is celebrated for its flavor and versatility, making it a popular choice for family gatherings.

Conclusion

Exploring the best Korean seafood for each season is a delightful way to experience the country's rich culinary heritage. With options ranging from fresh raw fish in spring to hearty stews in winter, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re dining at a local restaurant or trying your hand at home cooking, embracing seasonal seafood will elevate your dining experience.