Korean Grilled Dishes: What They Are

Korean BBQ is a special food preparation culture that combines traditions, taste, and the atmosphere of communal dining. Unlike regular barbecue, Korean cuisine offers a unique experience where food is cooked right at the table on a built-in grill. This is not just a way of cooking meat; it's an entire philosophy of communication and enjoying food. Let's figure out what Korean grilled dishes are and why they've gained popularity worldwide.

What is Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ is a method of cooking meat and vegetables on charcoal or on a special grill right on the table. In traditional BBQ restaurants, each table is equipped with a built-in grill where guests themselves or with staff help cook thinly sliced meat. This creates an incomparable atmosphere of communication and allows controlling the degree of doneness of each piece.

History of Korean BBQ

The history of Korean BBQ goes back to ancient times when nomadic tribes cooked meat over open fire. Korean BBQ took on its modern form after the Korean War, when restaurants with built-in grills became popular. The tradition of cooking food at the table strengthened, as it allowed people to gather together and enjoy not only food but also communication.

Popular Grilled Dishes

Grilled dishes in Korean cuisine are distinguished by their variety. The most famous is bulgogi, marinated beef in sweet soy sauce. Galbi are marinated beef short ribs that melt in your mouth. Samgyeopsal is pork belly without marinade, served with various sauces and vegetables. Dak-galbi is chicken marinated in spicy sauce. All these dishes are cooked on the grill right before serving.

BBQ Restaurants

A BBQ restaurant is a special place in Korean culture. In such a restaurant, each table is equipped with either a gas or charcoal grill. Waiters help guests start cooking and ensure that the meat doesn't burn. Restaurants offer not only meat but also many appetizers, lettuce leaves for wrapping meat, various sauces, and side dishes. Such restaurants are especially popular for gatherings with loved ones.

Korean BBQ in Moscow

In Moscow, Korean BBQ is gaining increasing popularity. Many BBQ restaurants have opened in the capital where you can try authentic Korean dishes. Some establishments offer charcoal grills, which gives the meat a special smoky aroma.

Grilling Technique

Cooking grilled dishes requires certain skills. Meat is cut into thin slices so it cooks quickly. Before cooking on charcoal, the grill needs to be well heated. Meat is laid out in small portions and turned with tongs. It's important not to overcook it to preserve juiciness. The cooked meat is wrapped in lettuce leaves with the addition of garlic, spicy sauce, and other seasonings.

Marinades and Sauces

Special marinades are used for Korean BBQ. The base of most marinades is soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, onion, and pear or kiwi (to tenderize the meat). Restaurants serve various sauces with meat: ssamjang (fermented bean paste), gochujang (spicy chili paste), soy sauce with sesame. Fresh vegetables, lettuce leaves, kimchi, and more are also served.

Culture of Communal Dining

Korean BBQ is more than just food; it's a culture of communication. Cooking meat at the table creates a special atmosphere where all participants in the meal are involved in the process. In Korean BBQ restaurants, it's customary to share food, try different dishes, and communicate. This strengthens social bonds and makes dinner a special event. That's why Korean BBQ is so popular for gatherings with friends and family celebrations.

Benefits of Charcoal Cooking

Cooking on charcoal gives meat a special aroma and taste. Smoke from the coals permeates the dishes, creating unique flavor notes. Traditional restaurants use wood charcoal, which doesn't impart a chemical aftertaste. Meat cooked on charcoal gets a crispy crust on the outside and stays juicy inside. This is the classic method valued by Korean cuisine connoisseurs.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ is a unique culinary experience that combines delicious grilled dishes, traditions, and communication culture. Whether it's a BBQ restaurant in Moscow or home cooking, Korean cuisine offers unforgettable taste impressions. Cooking meat at the table, especially on charcoal, creates a special atmosphere and makes each meal an event. Try cooking dishes using our recipes or visit a Korean BBQ restaurant - and you'll understand why this cuisine direction has won the hearts of gourmets around the world.