Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes): Crispy Delight with a Soft Center
Gwangjang Market is renowned for its bindae-tteok, a savoury pancake made from ground mung beans mixed with vegetables and meat. The secret lies in its unique preparation and the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and a soft, flavorful centre. Dip it in soy sauce for an extra burst of umami.
Bibimbap: A Colourful Bowl of Harmony
At Gwangjang Market, you'll find a version of bibimbap that is a true masterpiece. Fresh, locally sourced vegetables, a perfectly fried egg, and savoury gochujang (red chilli paste) come together, creating a visually stunning and deliciously balanced bowl of bibimbap. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavours.
Mayak Kimbap: Addictively Delicious Bite-Sized Rolls
For a quick and addictive snack, indulge in mayak kimbap, bite-sized rice rolls that pack a punch of flavour. Gwangjang Market's vendors offer various fillings, from classic vegetables to savoury meats, all tightly wrapped in seaweed. These little bites are perfect for on-the-go food explorations.
Yukhoe (Korean Beef Tartare): A Delicate Culinary Art
Experience the sophisticated side of Korean cuisine with yukhoe, a dish featuring raw beef seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and various spices. Gwangjang Market's rendition of yukhoe showcases the high-quality beef that South Korea is known for, elevating your palate with its exquisite taste.
Tteokbokki: Spicy Rice Cake Delight
No visit to Gwangjang Market is complete without trying its famous tteokbokki. The chewy rice cakes bathed in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce create a symphony of flavours that captures the essence of Korean street food. Don't miss the chance to savour this quintessential delicacy.
Sundae (Korean Blood Sausage): A Unique Culinary Adventure
For the adventurous foodie, Gwangjang Market offers sundae, Korean blood sausage filled with glass noodles, barley, and pork. Grilled to perfection, sundae provides a unique blend of textures and flavours, showcasing the culinary diversity found within the market's stalls.
Mandu (Dumplings): Pockets of Deliciousness
Gwangjang Market's mandu, or dumplings, are a culinary delight with various fillings, including meat, vegetables, and tofu. These pockets of goodness are expertly crafted and steamed or fried to perfection, providing a delightful burst of flavours with every bite.
Hotteok: Sweet Pancakes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Indulge your sweet tooth with hotteok, a type of filled Korean pancake. Gwangjang Market's hotteok is generously stuffed with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon, creating a warm, gooey treat that will leave you craving for more.
A Feast for the Senses at Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market stands as a testament to Seoul's rich culinary heritage, and these must-try foods are the epitome of its diverse and flavorful offerings. As you navigate through the market's bustling alleys, let your taste buds guide you on a culinary journey that encapsulates the essence of Korean street food.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a first-time explorer, Gwangjang Market's must-try foods promise a symphony of flavours that will leave an indelible mark on your culinary adventures in Seoul.
