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Panchan, a staple in Korean cuisine, often overlooked but harbors an intriguing tale
Those enamored by Korean gastronomy undoubtedly acquaint themselves with the divine Panchan. Served in petite dishes, it graces tables across all spectra, from humble family gatherings to upscale dining establishments. Despite its supporting role, Panchan remains indispensable, each dish bearing its own narrative.
The Origins of Panchan - A Tale of Unexpected Reverence
Panchan, a term used by Koreans to denote side dishes accompanying every meal, bears a rich history, marked by numerous vicissitudes.
Kimchi, too, ranks among the most ubiquitous panchan in Korean cuisine
According to historical records, modern panchan stems from the influence of Buddhism around the middle of the Three Kingdoms period. During this time, imperial powers embraced Buddhism as the primary religion, using it as a tool to govern the Korean peninsula.
Being a Buddhist nation led to the prohibition of meat in daily meals, thus, vegetables became essential sustenance for every household. Through a protracted evolution, seemingly simple and rustic dishes transformed from mere sustenance to revered delicacies offered to kings and nobles.
Each dish in Korean cuisine carries a unique flavor
Until the end of the Mongol invasions, the 'no-meat' rule was akin to a novelty food restriction. From then on, meat gradually reappeared in the Korean diet. However, six centuries of subjugation left indelible marks. Panchan not only survived but evolved, embracing more enticing flavors.
Korean side dishes are increasingly diverse
The quantity of panchan reflects the solemnity of each meal
In the intricate realm of dining, Koreans adhere to their own set of rules regarding food consumption. A prime example is the 'Bansang' protocol, organizing food on the dining table. A 'bansang' comprises 'bap' (in gimbap or bibimbap) – the primary starch component, followed by 'guk' or 'tang' referring to soups, gochujang, ganjang, jjigar, and kimchi.
The quantity of panchan reflects the solemnity of the meal
Depending on the number of panchan dishes on the table, Koreans have various designations. For instance, with 3 panchan, it's termed as '3 cheop', likewise for 5 cheop, 7 cheop, 9 cheop, 12 cheop, and so forth.
Typically, more elaborate meals entail a greater number of panchan dishes. A 'bansang' with 12 cheop is reserved for royal Korean cuisine.
This is always the indispensable accompanying dish on the Korean dining table
Panchan is diversified into various cooking styles, each comprising multiple smaller dishes. The main cooking styles typically include kimchi, namul, bokkeum, jorim, jjim, and jeon. Jeolla Province is renowned for its rich variety of panchan in every meal.
Savoring a 12 cheop meal at First Grill
Finding places to enjoy panchan isn't difficult. However, locating an establishment offering up to 200 types of panchan isn't a walk in the park. While in the past, only royal meals in Korea were served with 12 panchan, nowadays, at First Grill, you can indulge in meals fit for the gods.
Panchan at First Grill
Beyond its diversity, the panchan at First Grill undergoes adjustments by the chefs, reducing the spice and acidity to better suit the Vietnamese palate. This allows diners to fully appreciate all the dishes and enjoy the most authentic flavors.
Paired with grilled meat, it's truly a match made in heaven
First Grill lives up to its title as the first. Apart from an extensive panchan menu, it's adored by many for the variety of grilled dishes. Over 40 grilled items, ranging from American beef, pork, and chicken to fresh seafood like shrimp, squid, and fish, marinated in distinctive and flavorful sauces.
The diverse selection of panchan at First Grill leaves many diners extremely satisfied
The naturally sweet, fragrant, and rich grilled dishes combined with the spicy and tangy panchan not only help reduce the heaviness of the meal but also provide a tantalizing experience for the taste buds, allowing diners to feel full without getting bored. In the cool autumn weather, enjoying the flavorsome hotpot and grilled dishes accompanied by 200 varieties of rotating pan chan, surrounded by friends and family, is nothing short of wonderful.
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