Contents
- 1 13 Top Korean Foods To Try 2023
- 2 Becoming Informed Eaters: Learning About Different Culinary Ingredients
- 2.1 Best 13 Korean Foods To Try [2023]
- 2.2 Gimbap Allergy Note:
- 2.3 Kimchi Allergy Note:
- 2.4 Chimaek (Korean Fried Chicken)
- 2.5 Chimaek Allergy Note:
- 2.6 Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
- 2.7 Samgyetang Allergy Note:
- 2.8 Tteokbokki (Simmered Rice Cake)
- 2.9 Ttokbokki Allergy Note:
- 2.10 Bulgogi (Grilled Beef)
- 2.11 Bulgogi Allergy Note:
- 2.12 Bimbimbap (Steamed Rice With Vegetables)
- 2.13 Bimbimbap Allergy Note:
- 2.14 Samgyeopsalgui (Roasted Pork Belly)
- 2.15 Samgyoepsalgui Allergy Note:
- 2.16 Japchae (Stir-fried Glass Noodles)
- 2.17 Japchae Allergy Note:
- 2.18 Haemul-Pajeon (Seafood and Green Onion Pancake)
- 2.19 Haemul-Pajeon Allergy Note:
- 2.20 Dak-galbi (Spicy Chicken Stir-Fried)
- 2.21 Dak-galbi Allergy Note:
- 2.22 Budae-jigae (Spicy Sausage Stew)
- 2.23 Budae-Jigae Allergy Note:
- 2.24 Galbi-gui (Grilled Beef Ribs)
- 2.25 Galbi-Gui Allergy Note:
- 3 7 Must-Visit Eatery Alleys in Seoul
- 4 FAQs
13 Top Korean Foods To Try 2023
Embarking on our Seoul trip, we were eager to explore the rich culinary world of traditional Korean foods as a family. With Lily, who has a serious sesame allergy, joining us later, my sister (a Seoul resident) and I conducted thorough research. We took the opportunity to test our food allergy chef cards by dining out and engaging with servers, while also immersing ourselves in the local customs of Seoul. And in this post, I want to share our 13 Top Korean Foods to Try in 2023 from our trip with you.
Lily, a passionate foodie, firmly believes that informed eaters make better food choices. Her adventurous spirit guides her as she fearlessly explores new flavors, all while meticulously examining labels and recipes.
However, we were well aware of the challenges posed by Lily’s allergies during our trip to Asia. In fact, it led me to wonder if she had the most challenging food allergies for Asian cuisine.
Nevertheless, our determination remained unwavering, knowing that the experiences awaiting us would be immensely rewarding. And so, our meticulous planning began.
Becoming Informed Eaters: Learning About Different Culinary Ingredients
In my previous post, How to Survive Seoul with Food Allergies 2023, I shared our journey of familiarizing myself with classic ingredients of classic Korean cuisine.
The Seoul Tourist Organization (STO) provides valuable insights through their official tour guide. In it, they dedicate an entire page to the iconic dishes of Seoul and their key ingredients.
In this blog, I’ve compiled their list, complemented by one addition of my own—Tteokbokki. This ubiquitous “street food” captured our attention in almost every market we explored. In fact, it made an appearance at my niece’s Saturday morning school basketball game!
Our goal was clear: to savor 4-5 of the traditional foods from the list while taking into account our family’s allergies. For the remaining dishes, we compiled a running list of the best Korean recipes to recreate in the comfort of our home.
Best 13 Korean Foods To Try [2023]
⦁ Gimbap (Rice Wrapped in Seaweed)
⦁ Kimchi (Fermented Cabbage)
⦁ Chimaek (Korean Fried Chicken)
⦁ Samgyetang (Chicken Ginseng Stew)
⦁ Tteokbokki (Simmered Rice Cake)
⦁ Bulgogi (Korean Grilled Beef Bulgogi)
⦁ Bimbimbap (Steamed Rice with Vegetables)
⦁ Samgyeopsalgui (Roasted Pork Belly)
⦁ Japchae (Stir-fried Glass Noodles)
⦁ Haemul-Pajeon (Seafood & Green Onion Pancake)
⦁ Galbi-gui (Grilled Beef Ribs)
⦁ Dakgalbi (Spicy Chicken Stir Fry)
⦁ Budae-jigae (Spicy Sausage Stew)
Allergy Note: Substituting sesame oil, removing sesame seed as a garnish, and swapping out shellfish for other proteins in these traditional foods helps to extend the joy of our travels when we returned home

Gimbap (Rice Wrapped in Seaweed with Fillings)
Korean Gimbap is a popular Korean take-out food known for its convenience and portability. It consists of rice (bap) and a variety of ingredients wrapped in seaweed (gim). Unlike sushi, which features raw fish and rice vinegar seasoned rice, Korean gimbap typically uses sesame oil seasoned rice and does not contain fish.
Classic Ingredients of Gimbap:
- Egg
- Yellow Pickled Radish (danmuji)
- Rice
- Meat such as Eomuk (fish cake)
- Vegetables, such as Carrots, Spinach
Gimbap Allergy Note:
If you have a sesame allergy, make sure to inquire about the seasoning of the rice

Kimchi (Salted and Fermented Vegetables)
Kimchi, Korea’s most popular fermented food, is an iconic dish that is often served as a side dish with every Korean meal. Experience the vibrant flavors and health benefits of kimchi during your culinary exploration in Seoul!
Classic Ingredients of Kimchi:
- Fermented napa cabbage, Korean radish, or cucumber
- Brined vegetables to draw out water
- Seasonings such as fermented seafood product (fish sauce or brined shrimp)
- Gochugaru (red pepper flakes, spring onions, garlic, and ginger)
Kimchi Allergy Note:
If you are vegetarian or have shellfish or fish allergies it’s important to inquire about the preparation of the kimchi. o

Chimaek (Korean Fried Chicken)
Indulge in the delightful combination of crispy fried chicken and refreshing beer with Chimaek, also known as Korean Fried Chicken. This popular go-to food in Korea has gained immense popularity and is a must-try during your culinary adventures. Experience the irresistible crunch and bold flavors of Chimaek as you immerse yourself in the vibrant street food culture of Seoul.
Classic Ingredients of Chimaek:
- High-quality vegetable or olive oil for frying
- Seasonings such as spices, sugar, salt, and garlic
- Spicy red sauce (yangnyeom) with ingredients like gochujang, ketchup, hot sauce and frying powder (a mixture of wheat flour, seasoning, corn and baking powder, cornstarch, rice powder)
- Served with cubed, pickled radish as a side dish
Chimaek Allergy Note:
It’s important to note that some restaurants may use shellfish in the frying powder or cook with sesame oil. If you have allergies to these ingredients, be sure to inquire about the preparation before ordering.

Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
Savor the heartwarming flavors of Samgyetang, a beloved Korean stewed chicken dish. This iconic ginseng chicken soup features a delicious combination of tender chicken, fragrant rice, garlic, ginseng, and jujube. Perfectly suited for the hottest summer days, this nourishing stewed broth is enjoyed for its health benefits and comforting taste. Immerse yourself in the cultural tradition of enjoying Samgyetang as you embrace the revitalizing warmth and aromatic essence of this classic Korean ginseng chicken soup.
Classic Ingredients of Samgyetang:
- Whole young chicken
- Glutinous rice
- Garlic
- Green onions
- Jujubes
- Ginseng roots
Samgyetang Allergy Note:
While Samgyetang typically does not contain tree nuts, it’s important to note that some restaurants may include chestnuts. If you have a tree nut allergy, be sure to ask the chef about the presence of chestnuts in the dish.

Tteokbokki (Simmered Rice Cake)
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Tteokbokki, a popular Korean dish that offers a delightful blend of sweet , spicy, and savory flavors. This dish features chewy rice cakes simmered in a mouthwatering sauce made from gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. Experience the delightful textures and captivating flavors of Tteokbokki as you savor each bite of tender rice cakes, paired with the savory sauce and complementary ingredients.
Classic Ingredients of Ttokbokki:
- Chewy rice cakes in gochujang chilli paste
- Slices of fried eomuk fish cake
- Cabbage
- Scallions
- Garlic.
Ttokbokki Allergy Note:
Tteokbokki is often considered vegan and allergen-friendly, free from gluten, nuts, and soy. However, it’s important to confirm the ingredients as some recipes may include nuts, sesame, and shellfish. Please check with the chef or server to ensure it meets your specific dietary requirements.

Bulgogi (Grilled Beef)
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Bulgogi, a beloved Korean dish featuring grilled beef marinated in a delicious soy sauce blend. This traditional delicacy, also known as “fire meat” typically consists of thinly sliced, tender cuts of beef, chicken or pork grilled to perfection over an open flame, grill or griddle. Experience the mouthwatering delight of Bulgogi as you save the tender, succulent meat infused with the rich flavors of the soy-based marinade. The combination of savory, sweet, and aromatic elements creates a culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Classic Ingredients of Bulgogi:
- Thin slices of sirloin (or other prime cuts of beef or pork)
- Marinade made with a combination of sweet soy sauce, sesame, and garlic sauce)
- Korean pears for added sweetness
- Scallions and sesame seeds as garnish
Bulgogi Allergy Note:
Bulgogi commonly utilizes sesame oil and is often garnished with sesame seeds. If you have a sesame allergy, please ensure that the dish is prepared without these ingredients to meet your dietary requirements.

Bimbimbap (Steamed Rice With Vegetables)
Indulge in the delightful harmony of flavors with Bimbimbap, a classic Korean dish that features steamed rice mixed with an array of ingredients and a vibrant red pepper paste. The name Bimbimbap translates to “mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables, ” capturing the essence of this popular and wholesome Korean culinary delight.
Bimbimbap holds a special place in Korean cuisine, known for its healthfulness and cultural significance. Traditionally, it was enjoyed on the eve of the Lunar New Year, allowing people to savor and utilize their leftover side dishes before the start of the New Year festivities. Explore the artful combination of textures, colors, and tastes as you mix the ingredients together in your bowl, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal. The symphony of flavors, along with the vibrant presentation, makes Bimbimbap a beloved culinary gem enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Classic Ingredients of Bimbimbap:
- Steamed white rice as the base
- Namul, sauteed and seasoned vegetables, or kimchi (traditional fermented vegetables)
- Marinated meat (usually beef)
- A sunny-side up fried egg
- Gochujang, a flavorful chilli pepper paste, or soy sauce, or doenjang, a fermented soybean paste
- Sesame seeds for a nutty touch
- Bibimbap sauce to enhance the flavors
Bimbimbap Allergy Note:
It’s important to note that many Bimbimbap recipes incorporated sesame oil into their preparation. If you have a sesame allergy, make sure to inform the chef to omit sesame oil from your dish.

Samgyeopsalgui (Roasted Pork Belly)
Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Samgyeopsalgui, a beloved Korean dish that features succulent slices of pork belly roasted over a sizzling grill. Grill the pork belly to perfection, savoring the combination of smoky, savory, and tender flavors. Wrap each delectable slice in a perilla leaf, add a dollop of dipping sauce, and enjoy the delightful explosion of taste and texture in every bite. Samgyeopsalgui is a culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Classic Ingredients of Samgyeopsalgui:
- Sliced fresh pork belly known for its rich flavor and tender texture
- Garlic, adding aromatic notes to the dish
- Green chili peppers, providing a hint of spiciness
- Scallions, adding a touch of freshness
- Mushrooms, offering earthy and savory flavors
- Ssam vegetables such as kkaennip (perilla leaves) and ssammu (pickled radish paper), for wrapping and adding extra crunch and tanginess to each bite
To elevate the experience, Samgyeopsalgui is typically accompanied by dipping sauces. Ssamjang, a seasoned mixture of chili paste and soy bean paste, adds depth and tang, while gireum-jang, a blend of sesame oil, salt, and black pepper, imparts a savory and aromatic touch. Additionally, jangajji, soy sauce-pickled vegetables like myeongi-jangajji (pickled Siberian onion leaves) or yangpa-jangajji (pickled onions), kimchi, sliced garlic, onions, and seasoned shredded scallions are often served alongside to enhance the flavors and offer a variety of tastes.
Samgyoepsalgui Allergy Note:
Depending on the restaurant, it’s advisable to inquire about the use of sesame oil or garnishing with sesame seeds to accommodate any sesame-related allergies.

Japchae (Stir-fried Glass Noodles)
Delight in the irresistible flavors and textures of Japchae, a delightful Korean dish featuring stir-fried glass noodles made from sweet potatoes blended with vegetables, mushrooms, and meat. Indulge in the tantalizing medley of flavors as the glass noodles, vegetables, mushrooms, and meat come together in a perfectly balanced harmony. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, Japchae promises to satisfy your taste buds with its delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Classic Ingredients of Japchae:
- Mushrooms, such as wood ear, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, adding a delightful earthy flavor
- Carrots, providing a touch of sweetness and vibrant color
- Spinach, offering a fresh and nutritious element
- Onions, enhancing the savory profile of the dish
- Egg, adding richness and a velvety texture
- Scallions, imparting a mild onion flavor and pop of green freshness
Japchae commonly includes beef and pork, providing a savory and satisfying protein component. What sets Japchae apart is its gluten-free nature, as the noodles are made from sweet potato starch and water, making them a suitable choice for those avoiding wheat.
Japchae Allergy Note:
The sauce used in Japchae is a harmonious blend of brown sugar, dark soy sauce, and sesame oil. This combination contributes a delightful combo of sweetness and savory notes. However, it’s imporant to note that sesame oil is commonly used in th sauce, so individuals with sesame allergies should inquire about alternative options.

Haemul-Pajeon (Seafood and Green Onion Pancake)
Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Haemul-Pajeon, a savory Korean pancake featuring a delightful combination of seafood, green onions, and other vegetables, often enjoyed alongside traditional liquors. Haemul-Pajeon is a delightful dish that combines the richness of seafood, the aromatic essence of green onions, and the delightful crispness of the pancake batter. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course. Haemul-Pajeon promises a delightful culinary experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Classic Ingredients of Haemul-Pajeon:
- Scallions: Fresh green onions that add a distinct onion flavor and touch of freshness
- Seafood: A medley of seafood, such as squid, shrimp, mussels, oysters, and clams, providing the essence of ocean to the pancake
- Pancake Batter: Typically a mixture of wheat flour, corn starch, rice flour, and sometimes baking powder, creating a light and crispy texture
- Seasonings: Flavorful seasonings like garlic, corn, and pepper often added to enhance the taste profile
Haemul-Pajeon Allergy Note:
If you have seafood allergies or follow a vegetarian diet, you can omit the seafood and focus on cooking the pancake with the remaining ingredients. Additionally, for added protein, a small amount of minced beef can be used as a substitute.

Dak-galbi (Spicy Chicken Stir-Fried)
Indulge in the bold and flavorful experience of Dak-galbi, a spicy chicken stir-fry that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Described by the Seoul Travel Organization Guide, this dish features marinated diced chicken stir-fried in a delicious pepper paste sauce.
Classic Ingredients of Dak-galbi:
- Chicken: diced chicken pieces marinated in a flavorful sauce, infusing them with deliciousness.
- Gochujang Sauce: The star of the dish, the sauce is made from gochugaru (red chilli pepper flakes), gochujang, soy sauce, rice wine, and a touch. of sugar. It adds a spicy, savory kick to the dish.
- Vegetables: Dak-galbi typically includes sweet potatoes, cabbage, perilla leaves, and scallions, providing a variety of textures and flavors.
- Rice Cake (Tteok): Soft and chewy rice cake is often added to the stir-fry, complementing the other ingredients.
Dak-galbi Allergy Note:
If you have a sesame allergy, it is advisable to inquire at the restaurant whether they use sesame oil or garnish the dish with sesame seeds.

Budae-jigae (Spicy Sausage Stew)
Experience the unique and flavorful Budae-jigae, a stew that combines Korean ingredients with western influences, resulting in. a delightful fusion of flavors. The Seoul Travel Organization Guide describes this iconic dish as a hearty stew made by simmering ripe kimchi, vegetables, and an assortment of western ingredients, including sausages. Not only is it a beloved dish, but it also carries a meaningful origin story.
During the aftermath of the Korean war when food was scarce, the term “Budae” referred to military based in Korean, while “Jigae” meant stew. In a stroke of culinary ingenuity, Koreans used surplus ingredients from US military bases to create this nourishing stew. Budae-jigae became a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness during challenging economic times.
This is a must-try dish fort hose seeking a taste of Korean culinary innovation.
Classic Ingredients of Budae-Jigae:
- Spam
- Sausages
- Canned baked beans
- Sliced cheese
- Tofu
- Ramen noodles
- Mushrooms
- Kimchi
- Green onions
- Gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes)
- Rice wine
- Soy sauce
- Minced garlic
- Sugar
- Gochujang (Korean chilli paste)
- Black pepper
Budae-Jigae Allergy Note:
Some restaurants may use sesame oil or sesame seeds as garnish. If you have a sesame allergy, it is recommended to inquire about the use of sesame oil or seeds before ordering.

Galbi-gui (Grilled Beef Ribs)
Galbi-gui, also known as grilled beef or pork ribs, is a classic Korean dish enjoyed for its seasoned and grilled goodness. This classic dish offers. a delightful dining experience with its succulent grilled ribs and the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Whether you choose beef or pork ribs, this dish is a true highlight of Korean cuisine and a must-try for meat lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Classic Ingredients of Galbi-gui:
- Beef short ribs
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Sesame oil
- Mirin
- Black pepper
- Pear
Galbi-Gui Allergy Note:
Depending on the restaurant, be sure to inquire whether they use sesame oil or garnish with sesame seeds. If you have a sesame allergy, it’s important to inquire about the use of sesame oil or seeds before ordering.

7 Must-Visit Eatery Alleys in Seoul
FAQs
- You say “[name of allergen e] alleleugiga iss-eoyo.
- Sesame [chamkkae]
- Nuts [gyeongwalyu]
- Shellfish: [jogae]
- Seafood [haesanmul]
- Dairy products: [yujepum]
- Egg: [dalgyal]
There are so many options if you’re interested in Korean food to make at home. Korean food’s popularity has skyrocketed over the past few years so it’s easy to find Korean staples in y our local grocery store. For example, you can easily find Tteokbokki, kimchi, and gochujang sauce at Trader Joe’s. In addition to these “staples”, you may be able to find their Korean style short-ribs (galbi), their beefless bulgogi, their Korean inspired, Bulgogi beef fried rice with kimchi, japchae, and scallion pancake (pajeon) in their freezer section.
So many Korean dishes are naturally vegan (or vegetarian), or can be made either. Some common dishes include bimbimbap (mixed veggies and rice), Japchae (Korean Sweet Potato Noodles), and Pajeon (Green Onion pancake). While many of these can be served with meat such as beef, chicken or pork, or shellfish you can substitute these for your preferred vegan protein such as tofu. Some vegan options to consider at a Korean restaurant include the small dishes (banchan), tofu, rice, and tteokbokki.
Although wheat and barley is found in many Korean dishes, you can find many options that are gluten free. Be sure to check the ingredients in noodles, sauces, and marinades when you want to make gluten free Korean recipes. Some popular dishes like bimbimbap, dumplings (mandu), and marinated meats use sauces that may typically contain gluten, such as soy sauce, so be sure to check the labels. If you’re cooking at home, you can substitute wheat-free soy sauce. The only type of soy sauce that is gluten-free is tamari soy sauce, which contains soybeans, water, salt, and alcohol.
Although you may hear that Korea is not vegetarian friendly, you can find many options if you’re a vegetarian. Bimbimbap, Gimbap, Vegetable Dumplings, Potato Pancakes, Mung bean pancakes, and roasted chestnuts are all great options.
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Hello! I'm Pat, and I'm thrilled you've visited our site! Here we honor the many kids facing food allergies fearlessly. Alongside my foodie teen, Lily, who deals with multiple food allergies, we share our exciting food discoveries from travels and everyday life. Join us as we navigate life with food allergies, providing resources and promoting safe dining options. Let's inspire a new generation to make informed choices for our health, well-being, and communities, while having fun along the way!
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