Are you looking to spice up your culinary skills with some delicious and authentic Korean dishes? Look no further! Korean cuisine has gained immense popularity globally, and it’s not hard to see why. With its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich textures, Korean food is a treat for the senses. And the best part? Many of these recipes are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners!
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering Korean recipes that are perfect for those new to Korean cooking. From savory stir-fries to spicy stews, and from crispy pancakes to fluffy bento boxes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a fan of meat, seafood, or vegetarian options, we’ve got you covered.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Korean cuisine and explore these 20 easy and delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites!
Kimchi Fried Rice
A spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this Korean-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of kimchi with crispy vegetables and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the other side and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice, kimchi, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until well combined and heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef)
Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and some simple cooking steps, you can create a mouthwatering beef dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) or substitute with red pepper flakes
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, black pepper, and gochugaru.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat 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 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with sesame oil drizzled on top and garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir Fry)
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made with sweet potato starch noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood. This simple recipe showcases the classic flavor combination of stir-fried glass noodles with spinach and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (dangmyeon)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions 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 the onion is translucent.
4. Add the spinach and stir-fry until wilted.
5. Add the cooked glass noodles, soy sauce, and salt. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Quick Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes) Recipe
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food, and this quick version skips the traditional cooking time to deliver a spicy kick in no time. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this addictive snack at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tteok (Korean rice cakes)
– 2 tablespoons of Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or diced Korean chili flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the tteok into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the tteok and remaining 1 cup of water. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the rice cakes are cooked through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Korean Egg Roll (Gyeran Mari)
This classic Korean snack is a simple and satisfying treat that can be prepared in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can create crispy and flavorful egg rolls that are perfect for breakfast or as a quick bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
– 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the egg mixture towards the center.
5. Repeat step 4 until the egg is almost cooked through, then transfer it to a plate.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and grated cheese (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Simple Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
Doenjang jjigae is a classic Korean dish that combines the savory flavor of soybean paste with vegetables and gochujang, a spicy chili paste. This simple recipe requires only a few ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and/or kimchi for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the doenjang, gochujang, carrot, and water/broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and/or kimchi, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl)
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simplified version of the popular Korean dish, Bibimbap! This quick recipe combines wholesome ingredients with minimal cooking time to create a delicious mixed rice bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast or tofu, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 fried egg, 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with sesame oil over medium heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add cooked chicken or tofu and stir-fry for another minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and Gochujang. Pour the mixture over the vegetable-chicken mixture and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Divide cooked rice into individual bowls. Top with the vegetable-chicken mixture and garnish with optional fried egg and green onions.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Kimchi Pancake (Kimchijeon)
In Korea, kimchi pancakes are a popular street food that combines the spicy kick of kimchi with the comfort of a fluffy pancake. This easy recipe lets you enjoy this delicious treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons kimchi, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Add chopped kimchi and mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another 2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 4-5 minutes per pancake
Tips:
– Use your favorite kimchi recipe or store-bought kimchi for this recipe.
– Adjust the amount of kimchi to your desired level of spiciness.
– Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Kimchijeon!
Simple Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
A hearty and flavorful stew that originated from the Korean War era, Budae Jjigae is a unique blend of army rations and household ingredients. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 cup instant noodles (e.g., Ramen)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Spam and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the instant noodles, kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, and water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Gamja Jorim (Braised Potatoes)
This classic Korean recipe is a staple in many households, and for good reason. The slow-cooked potatoes in a savory soy-based sauce are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the potatoes, soy sauce, water, sugar, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)
This classic Korean side dish is a staple in many Korean households, and for good reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of spinach in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the spinach leaves and remove any stems or tough parts.
2. In a large bowl, combine the garlic, chili flakes, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Mix well.
3. Add the spinach leaves to the bowl and toss until the leaves are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Simple Dakgangjeong (Sweet Crispy Chicken)
Dakgangjeong, a popular Korean street food, is an addictive snack that combines crispy fried chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of Korea from the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup potato starch
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup sweet and spicy sauce (Gochujang)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, potato starch, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, mix together Gochujang, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
6. Toss fried chicken pieces with the sweet and spicy sauce until well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Hobak Jeon (Zucchini Pancake)
This Korean-inspired snack is a delicious and healthy treat that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of crispy and flavorful zucchini pancakes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Beat in the egg and mix until well combined.
3. Add water and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (depending on the number of pancakes you make).
Easy Gimbap (Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls)
Gimbap, also known as Korean seaweed rice rolls, is a popular snack or light meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal preparation time to create delicious gimbap at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 sheet of dried seaweed (nori)
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice by mixing it with water in a bowl until it forms a sticky dough.
2. Lay a sheet of seaweed flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/2 cup of rice mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Arrange the cucumber, carrot, and green onions horizontally across the rice.
4. Drizzle soy sauce over the filling and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
5. Roll the gimbap using your fingers or a bamboo mat, applying gentle pressure to compress the ingredients.
6. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Simple Ojingeo Bokkeum (Spicy Stir-Fried Squid)
This classic Korean dish is a staple of street food and casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can quickly stir-fry squid to perfection with a sweet and spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cleaned and cut 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
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add squid; cook for 2-3 minutes, until opaque and slightly firm.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour the sauce over the squid mixture; stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes to coat.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Kongnamul Muchim (Soybean Sprout Salad)
This Korean-inspired salad is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with nutritious soybean sprouts. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and healthy side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soybean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the soybean sprouts and drain well.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, rice vinegar, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the soybean sprouts to the dressing and toss to coat.
4. Stir in chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Easy Dubu Jorim (Braised Tofu)
This Korean-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, with tender and flavorful tofu smothered in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, Gochujang, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until they are well coated with the sauce and tender.
4. Add the water and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Miyeok Guk (Seaweed Soup)
Miyeok Guk is a traditional Korean soup made with seaweed, vegetables, and meat or bones. This simple recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of miyeok (dried seaweed)
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of diced beef or pork bones
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the miyeok in cold water and soak it in hot water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add the beef or pork bones, beef broth, and soaked miyeok to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Baechu Geotjeori (Fresh Kimchi)
This recipe is a simplified version of traditional kimchi, perfect for those who want to experience the spicy and sour flavors without spending hours preparing it. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have fresh kimchi in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs napa cabbage, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup coarse salt
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Optional: other vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, or scallions
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cabbage pieces in cold water to remove any impurities.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chili flakes, salt, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and water to make the kimchi paste.
3. Add the garlic and ginger to the kimchi paste and stir well.
4. Pack the cabbage into a jar or container, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
5. Pour the kimchi paste over the cabbage, making sure everything is coated evenly.
6. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This is a raw kimchi recipe that requires no cooking.
Easy Korean Corn Cheese
This classic Korean comfort food is a simple yet addictive snack that combines the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy bite, this recipe requires only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the corn kernels and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to thaw.
4. Stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the minced garlic.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Korea with these 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From spicy stir-fries to sweet and crispy snacks, this collection has something for everyone. Try making Kimchi Fried Rice, Easy Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef), or Simple Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir Fry) for a taste of the country’s popular dishes. Or, indulge in some Korean-style comfort food with recipes like Simple Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew) and Quick Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl). With these simple and accessible recipes, you’ll be exploring the world of Korean cuisine in no time!
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