Traveling to South Korea offers you the chance to enjoy breathtaking natural scenery throughout the seasons and savor the distinctive culinary delights of each region. Among these, the cuisine of Gyeongsang-do stands out with its captivating dishes.
Traditional Ginseng Chicken Soup
Ginseng chicken soup is a must-try dish when visiting South Korea. This is also a famous specialty of Gyongsangbuk-do province. The nutritious soup includes ingredients like chicken, ginseng, jujube, chestnuts, and glutinous rice, simmered for hours until the meat and bones are tender. The light aroma and refreshing broth make it a healthy choice. Rich in nutrients, this dish also helps cool the body, making it particularly popular during the summer.



Spicy Raw Fish Soup
For many Vietnamese travelers visiting South Korea, spicy raw fish soup might sound unfamiliar and challenging to eat. However, it is a beloved dish among Koreans, commonly known as “Mulhoe.” This dish is especially popular in coastal regions like Gangwon-do province. The soup features a broth served with cleaned and finely chopped raw fish, ice, greens, seaweed, cabbage, and a spicy sauce made from chili and soybeans. Trying this dish once will help you understand why it’s considered a specialty. With its refreshing taste, spicy raw fish soup is perfect for hot summer days.


Braised chicken is a beloved dish in Andong city, North Gyeongsang province, South Korea. The chicken used must be fresh to ensure the fullest flavor. After cleaning, the chicken is marinated with spices and braised over moderate heat until fully cooked. It is served with glass noodles and fresh vegetables like potatoes, spinach, carrots, and onions. This dish is both delicious and easy to enjoy, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.


Dried Fish in Pohang
The dried fish season in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, occurs during winter. This dish is not just about drying longtail fish; it uniquely utilizes the temperature difference between day and night to freeze the fish. After thawing, the process is repeated, and the fish is cured over half a month. Typically, prolonged exposure to air would ferment the fat and protein, but the skin of the longtail fish acts as a protective layer, allowing the meat to cook without fermentation. Well-cured dried fish is oil-free and becomes more flavorful with each chew.


Gyeongju Rice Rolls
Rice rolls, also known as “Gimbap,” are not only a staple of Gyeongsangbuk-do cuisine but also a famous dish across South Korea. Gyeongju Gimbap is made with fresh seasonal ingredients, such as sticky white rice, seaweed, eggs, spinach, carrots, and specially marinated pork or beef. A key ingredient is perilla leaves (Korean sesame leaves), which add a unique and aromatic flavor. When traveling to South Korea, make sure to visit Gyeongju to experience the authentic taste of this dish.

A distinctive feature of Gyeongju Gimbap is that it typically uses less sesame oil compared to other regional varieties. It is often cut into bite-sized pieces and served with kimchi and miso soup, creating a complete and satisfying meal.

In Korean cuisine, spicy stir-fried pork is commonly known as “Jeyuk Bokkeum.” This dish is a specialty you should try at least once when visiting Gyeongsangbuk-do. Made with thin slices of pork marinated in a sauce of gochujang (Korean chili paste), minced garlic, sugar, a bit of rice wine, and sesame oil, it is stir-fried with vegetables like onions, carrots, and bell peppers. The quick stir-fry over high heat ensures the pork remains tender and flavorful. It is typically served with fresh vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, herbs, and Korean chili peppers.


According to Mytour.vn
***
Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnJune 3, 2024