South Korean Street Food

Don’t underestimate the street food in South Korea. There are plenty of choices, and street stalls can be found almost anywhere. From the moment sightseeing begins (JEJU ISLAND) to simply wandering around in search of food, there is often something to eat along the way. Stalls appear at bazaars, unexpected corners and ordinary streets.

As in other parts of the world, street food in South Korea is usually bought and eaten while walking around. Some stalls may have stools and tables for those who prefer to sit and eat. However, street food in Korea may not always be affordable. Prices vary depending on the area and the type of food. The exchange rate can also make a difference for travellers (WHAT TO EAT IN JAPAN) It is wise to check the displayed prices before deciding what to try.

Taste, of course, depends on individual preference. Food safety is another consideration. To avoid food poisoning or other problems, choose stalls that keep food covered and properly stored. Food that is cooked before serving is also a sensible choice (BEST STREET FOOD IN SRI LANKA).

 

With plenty of choices available throughout South Korea, there is always something to try.

South Korean Grilled Skewers

More than simply food grilled on a stick, skewers are part of the wider Korean street-food culture. There are various choices, ranging from dak-kkochi, chicken pieces grilled on a skewer, to tteok-kkochi, or rice-cake skewers. Fishcake skewers and sausage-and-rice-cake combinations are also popular choices.

 

Grilled skewers come in different combinations, with various meats, sausages, fillings and even different ways of wrapping or serving them. It may not always be easy to tell what each one is simply by its appearance or name, but that is part of the fun of choosing from the selection.

 

These skewers are usually grilled after ordering, making them convenient finger food while walking around. The sauces add another dimension. A sweet and spicy sauce is commonly used, either brushed over the skewer during grilling or served separately for dipping.

 

Among the choices, pork skewers can be particularly appealing. The tender meat, with streaks of fat in between, takes on a rich flavour from the grilling. The sauce adds another depth of flavour.

 

Korean Corn Dog

Street stalls selling Korean corn dogs are popular, and they can also be found at snack shops. Unlike the usual corn dog, the Korean version is known for its crispy batter, different fillings and unusual coatings. 

There are versions with mozzarella, as well as combinations of sausage and cheese. Some are coated with potato pieces or breadcrumbs. Sugar may also be sprinkled over a freshly fried corn dog, creating a sweet-and-savoury combination that is quite characteristic of Korean street food.

Tornado Potato/Hoeorigamja

While South Korea has various potato dishes, such as butter-grilled whole potatoes, potato pancakes and potato rice cakes, it is hard to ignore the Tornado Potato. Tornado Potato is the English name, while hoeorigamja refers to its distinctive spiral form.

 

Its unusual shape catches attention and makes one wonder what it is. Look closer and it is actually a potato. The spiral-cut potato is crispy and crunchy, usually seasoned after frying. It makes a good snack, although it can be quite filling. The taste is closer to a crispy French fry than a traditional potato dish.

 

It is also interesting to watch how the potato is cut into a continuous spiral without separating it, then placed on a skewer and fried. The Tornado Potato is a more modern Korean street snack, turning an ordinary potato into something quite different.

Korean Fried Chicken

Unlike fried chicken served at eateries and fast-food outlets, where it usually comes as a set meal with sides, Korean street fried chicken can be much simpler. Some stalls may offer add-ons, but it is usually served in a paper cup, making it easy to eat on the go. Despite the simple serving, it still comes with Korean flavours and a crisp coating. Generally fried twice, the chicken has a crunchy exterior while remaining tender inside.

 

Sauces vary depending on the stall, ranging from the familiar sweet and spicy yangnyeom sauce to other seasonings. Choices may include wings, drumettes or smaller bite-sized pieces. Having the chicken fried on the spot also helps retain the crunch.

Korean Oranges and Orange Juice

While Jeju is well known for its oranges due to its favourable climate, oranges are also grown in some of the warmer parts of mainland South Korea. This fruit is refreshing, with a burst of sweetness and mild tanginess.

 

However, eating a whole orange can be inconvenient in public or while walking around. It is more suitable to buy the fruit and eat it later. Bottled Korean orange juice, on the other hand, is an easy thirst quencher regardless of the weather.

 

There are other products made from Korean oranges, including sweets and desserts. Still, bottled orange juice offers a convenient way to have the taste of fresh Korean oranges.