Are you ready to explore the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine? Look no further! With its bold spices, savory meats, and sweet sauces, Korean cooking has become a global phenomenon. And the best part? Many of these dishes are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Korea’s most beloved recipes, from spicy stir-fries to comforting soups and stews. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these 20 delicious and easy Korean recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
**From Kimchi Fried Rice to Simple Korean Pancakes**
In this collection, we’ve included a mix of classic dishes like Kimchi Fried Rice and Spicy Tofu Stew (Soondubu Jjigae), as well as innovative twists on traditional recipes. Want to try something new? Start with our Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi or Korean BBQ Pork Belly (Samgyeopsal). Prefer something lighter? Our Simple Korean Egg Roll (Gyeran Mari) and Quick Korean Seaweed Soup (Miyeok Guk) are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Stay tuned for the rest of the article, where we’ll dive deeper into each recipe and provide you with all the tips and tricks to make these dishes shine. Happy cooking!
Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe: Spicy Fusion of Flavors
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this bold and savory kimchi fried rice recipe, blending the pungency of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) with the richness of crispy kimchi and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Push the mixture aside; crack in the egg and scramble it until cooked through.
4. Combine the ingredients, then add the chopped kimchi and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish that marries sweet and savory flavors with tender beef. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tofu Stew (Soondubu Jjigae)
A classic Korean dish that combines the creaminess of soft tofu with a bold and spicy sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, Gochujang, soy sauce, black pepper, and water. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Korean Chicken Bibimbap
A classic Korean dish, Bibimbap is a nutritious and flavorful meal that combines crispy fried chicken with an assortment of colorful vegetables, served over a bed of warm white rice. This recipe adds a sweet and spicy twist to the traditional version by incorporating marinated chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced zucchini)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken in Gochujang mixture for at least 30 minutes.
2. Fry chicken until crispy, then set aside.
3. Cook mixed vegetables according to package instructions.
4. Serve fried chicken over a bed of white rice, topped with vegetables and a fried egg.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
6. Cooking time: 25-30 minutes.
Quick Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir Fry)
Japchae, also known as Glass Noodle Stir Fry, is a popular Korean dish made with sweet potato starch noodles and a variety of vegetables. This quick recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 cup cooked beef or chicken, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked meat; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Korean Pancakes (Pajeon)
These crispy and savory pancakes are a staple in Korean cuisine, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily make this classic Korean recipe at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Add chopped scallions and black pepper; mix well.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a ladle, pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the hot oil.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to curl.
7. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute or until golden brown.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, depending on the number of pancakes you make.
Korean Soy Garlic Fried Chicken
Get ready to spice up your fried chicken game with this bold and flavorful Korean-inspired recipe, featuring a sweet and savory soy garlic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, legs, wings)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, chili flakes, and sugar.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Brush with soy garlic glaze (whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
This hearty and flavorful Korean stew, also known as Budae Jjigae, is a comforting and affordable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with a medley of ingredients, including canned goods, instant noodles, and vegetables, this army-style stew is a staple in many Korean households.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 cup of instant noodles (e.g., ramyeon)
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, potatoes, zucchini)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 4 cups of water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, mixed vegetables, kimchi, soy sauce, and gochujang. Stir well.
4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)
A classic Korean side dish that pairs perfectly with rice and a variety of main courses. This simple yet flavorful recipe showcases the sweetness of spinach, garlic, and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the spinach leaves and drain well.
2. In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Add the spinach leaves in batches, stirring constantly to wilt the greens.
5. Season with soy sauce, black pepper, and salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Korean Egg Roll (Gyeran Mari)
This classic Korean snack is a staple at parties and gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can create these crispy, savory egg rolls that are both easy to make and deliciously addictive.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Beat the eggs in a bowl until well-mixed.
2. Add the flour, salt, and pepper to the eggs. Mix until smooth.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Pour small amounts of the egg mixture into the oil, spreading it slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for about 30 seconds or until the edges start to set.
6. Use the spatula to roll the egg mixture into a neat cylinder shape.
7. Repeat until all the egg mixture is used up.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Korean BBQ Pork Belly (Samgyeopsal)
This classic Korean dish is a must-try for any pork lover. Crispy, caramelized skin and tender meat are the perfect combination for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin on
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup Korean BBQ sauce (available at most Asian markets)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and black pepper.
3. Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern.
4. Rub the Gochujang mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the pork belly on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan.
6. Drizzle sesame oil and Korean BBQ sauce evenly over the pork belly.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then increase oven temperature to broil (500°F/260°C) and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until skin is crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Quick Korean Seaweed Soup (Miyeok Guk)
This comforting soup is a staple in Korean cuisine, made with dried seaweed and a variety of vegetables. With its rich umami flavor and easy preparation, it’s a perfect meal for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried seaweed (miyeok)
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried seaweed in cold water, then soak it in hot water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, combine the onion, garlic, carrot, and potato. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the soaked seaweed, sesame oil, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Korean Rice Cake Soup (Tteokguk)
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Tteokguk, a classic Korean rice cake soup that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This hearty soup is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice cakes (tteok)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup diced green onions for garnish
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, Gochujang, soy sauce, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add rice cakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice cakes are fully cooked.
3. Add minced garlic and stir well.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)
A classic Korean side dish, Gamja Jorim is a simple yet flavorful braising of potatoes in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. This comforting dish pairs perfectly with a variety of Korean meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup soy sauce (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add potatoes, soy sauce, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Korean Cold Noodles (Naengmyeon)
A refreshing summer dish that combines the comforting warmth of noodles with the cooling crispness of ice and spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 200g cold buckwheat or starch noodles
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Cut the noodles into desired lengths.
2. In a large bowl, combine the noodles, cucumber, pickled ginger, and green onions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, with ice cubes on top.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is meant to be served cold.
Korean Stir-Fried Squid (Ojingeo Bokkeum)
A classic Korean dish that combines tender squid with a savory and spicy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and sliced squid
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the squid and cook, stirring occasionally, until it changes color and becomes tender (about 5 minutes).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Pour the sauce over the squid mixture; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Korean Fish Cake Soup (Eomuk Guk)
This hearty soup is a staple in Korean cuisine, made with crispy fish cakes, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. With its comforting warmth and savory flavors, it’s the perfect remedy for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fish cakes (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken/beef stock)
– 1/2 cup diced Korean radish (mu)
– 1/2 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced zucchini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish cakes into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, radish, green onions, zucchini, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the fish cake pieces and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Soybean Sprout Side Dish (Kongnamul Muchim)
A simple and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of Korean dishes, Kongnamul Muchim is a great way to add some crunch and flavor to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soybean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the soybean sprouts and drain well.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the soybean sprouts to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Quick Korean Bean Sprout Soup (Kongnamul Guk)
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Korean dish, made with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, bean sprouts, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Sweet Pancake (Hotteok)
Start your day with a sweet and crispy Korean-style pancake, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed cinnamon cookies (or sugar cookies)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet over medium heat with about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil.
4. Using a ladle, scoop the batter into the pan and flatten slightly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Sprinkle crushed cookies or sugar on top and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Korean Sweet Pancake (Hotteok)!
Summary
Get ready to explore the flavors of Korea with these easy and delicious recipes! Perfect for beginners, this collection features 20 mouthwatering dishes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic Kimchi Fried Rice to spicy Soondubu Jjigae stew and sweet Hotteok pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi or Korean BBQ Pork Belly, or keep it simple with Simple Korean Pancakes or Quick Japchae stir-fry. Whatever you choose, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!
