The Next Big Thing: Korean Cuisine

In terms of Western Asian cuisine, Korea is late to the party! While it’s become commonplace to rustle up Pad Thai noodles at home or enjoy Vietnamese pho at dinner with friends, Korean cuisine is still a relatively untapped market.

With our very own Nica Kim hailing from South Korea, we thought it was a fitting time to hone in on this emerging food trend. From popular Korean dish Bibimbap to the capitals best food haunts, find out why Korean food is the next big food trend.

Soul Food in Seoul

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Although Korean food is still something of an anomaly over here, it’s no reflection of the cuisine itself. Take a trip to the South Korean capital of Seoul and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of mouth wateringly good dishes divided into sardine packed streets.

Sample saucy rice cakes in Sindang-dong, otherwise known as the fish and chips of Korea, chow down on cold noodles in Ojang-dong and nibble savoury pancakes in Gongdeok. And don’t forget to take a trip to Namdaemun Market in Seoul where you can try all of the best Korean dishes in one place.

The Rise of Bibimbap

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In need of comfort food? Bibimbap is a staple Korean dish and literally translates to “mixed rice”. This is egg fried rice for people who are tired of eating egg fried rice and want something more arresting on their taste buds.

Warm white rice, chilli pepper paste, sautéed vegetables, soy sauce and sliced meat culminate in a fusion of fresh flavours topped off with a sunny side up fried egg. The dish is presented in sections with chopsticks and a spoon and the fun is to “bibim” the contents together until you’ve got a perfect mix. Tasty and nutritious, if you try one Korean dish this year, make it bibimbap.

A Taste of East Asia in London: Koba

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Considered by foodies as one of the best Korean restaurants in London, Koba specialise in Korean barbecue fare. This is no ordinary dining experience, the barbecued squid and beef kaibi staple meats are grilled in front of you on a hot plate making you feel like you’re part of a lavish banquet. 

Korean barbecue meat is thinly sliced and marinated in combinations such as pear juice, ginger, garlic and soy sauce allowing for a sweet and sour taste. Served with sumptuous side dishes such as sliced sweet potato, kimchi, fried rice and vegetable bimbibap- you’ll be hooked by the intoxicating smells and unusual flavours. One way ticket to Koba restaraunt, please!

What’s your favourite cuisine? We’d love to find out which dishes tickle your taste buds. Drop us a comment below or tweet us @Nica_Handbags.