Famous Food In North Korea: A Guide to the Best Dishes

North Korea is a country shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, but one thing is for sure: its cuisine is a delicious hidden gem. From savory soups to iconic street food, North Korean food is a unique and unforgettable experience. In this article, we will explore the famous food in North Korea that every foodie should try at least once.

🍲 Pyongyang Cold Noodle Soup (Naengmyeon)

One of the most iconic dishes in North Korea, Naengmyeon is a cold noodle soup typically served with slices of beef, boiled egg, and cucumbers. The broth is made with vinegar and mustard, giving it a tangy flavor that is perfect for a hot summer day.

🍚 Kimchi Fried Rice (Bokkeumbap)

Bokkeumbap is a popular dish in North Korea made with leftover rice and kimchi. The spicy and sour flavors of kimchi are mixed with rice, vegetables, and meat to create a delicious fried rice dish that is perfect for breakfast or lunch.

🌭 Korean Street Food (Gimbap)

Gimbap is a staple of Korean street food, and North Korea is no exception. It is made with steamed rice wrapped in seaweed and filled with various ingredients such as vegetables, cooked meat, and egg. It is a quick and delicious snack that can be found in markets and street stalls throughout the country.

🥘 Korean Style Hot Pot (Jeongol)

Jeongol is a type of Korean hot pot that is popular in North Korea. Thinly sliced meat, seafood, and vegetables are cooked in a broth at the table, making it a perfect dish for sharing with friends and family. The broth is also served with rice and other side dishes.

🍜 Kalguksu

Kalguksu is a traditional Korean noodle soup that is popular in North Korea. The soup is made with handmade noodles and a savory broth made with chicken or beef. It is often served with vegetables and boiled eggs.

🥟 Mandu

Mandu is a type of dumpling that is popular in North Korea. The dumplings are filled with pork or beef, vegetables, and other seasonings, and then boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. They can be served as a snack or as a side dish.

🍛 Pilaf (Pulao)

Pilaf is a rice dish that is popular in Central Asia and is also commonly found in North Korea. The rice is cooked with meat, spices, and often topped with vegetables. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.

🍲 Jjigae

Jjigae is a type of Korean stew that is popular in North Korea. It is made with various ingredients such as beef, seafood, or tofu, and vegetables in a spicy broth. It is often served with rice and other side dishes.

🍢 Grilled Meat (Gui)

Grilled meat, or Gui, is a popular dish in North Korea. Thinly sliced meat is marinated in a soy sauce-based sauce and then grilled over an open flame. It is often served with vegetables and other side dishes.

🥘 Korean Style Fried Chicken (Chikin)

Korean-style fried chicken, or Chikin, is a popular street food in North Korea. The chicken is coated in a flour-based batter and then deep-fried until crispy. It is then served with various dipping sauces and side dishes.

🥟 Kimchi Dumplings (Kimchimandu)

Kimchimandu is a type of dumpling that is filled with kimchi and other seasonings. They are then boiled or steamed and served as a snack or side dish. They are a perfect combination of the spicy and sour flavors of kimchi and the soft texture of dumplings.

🍢 Grilled Fish (Saengseon Gui)

Grilled fish, or Saengseon Gui, is a popular dish in North Korea. The fish is marinated in a soy sauce-based sauce and then grilled over an open flame. It is often served with vegetables and other side dishes.

🥡 Korean Instant Noodles (Ramyun)

Korean instant noodles, or Ramyun, are a popular snack in North Korea. They are easy to prepare and come in various flavors such as spicy, seafood, and cheese. They are a perfect snack for a quick and satisfying meal.

🥟 Japchae

Japchae is a Korean dish made with stir-fried glass noodles and various vegetables. It is often served as a side dish or as a main course. The noodles are made from sweet potato starch, giving them a unique texture and flavor.

🌯 Pajeon

Pajeon is a type of Korean pancake made with green onions and various seafood or meat. It is often served as a snack or appetizer and is a perfect dish for sharing with friends and family.

FAQs:

1. What is North Korean food like?

North Korean food is heavily influenced by Korean cuisine but also has some Russian and Chinese influences. The dishes are often spicy, sour, and hearty, using simple ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and rice.

2. What is the most famous food in North Korea?

The most famous food in North Korea is Pyongyang Cold Noodle Soup (Naengmyeon). It is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for a hot summer day.

3. Is North Korean food safe to eat?

North Korean food is generally safe to eat, but it is important to be cautious when eating street food or drinking tap water. It is recommended to drink bottled water and to eat in reputable restaurants.

4. Can vegetarians eat North Korean food?

Vegetarians can eat North Korean food, but it is important to communicate with the restaurant staff about your dietary restrictions. Many dishes contain meat or seafood, but there are also many vegetable-based dishes available.

5. What is the best time to try North Korean food?

The best time to try North Korean food is during the winter months. The hearty and warming dishes such as pilaf and jjigae are perfect for cold weather.

6. Is it easy to find North Korean food outside of North Korea?

It can be challenging to find North Korean food outside of North Korea, but there are some restaurants in South Korea, China, and other countries that serve North Korean cuisine.

7. How healthy is North Korean food?

North Korean food is generally healthy, using simple and fresh ingredients. However, some dishes can be high in sodium or fat, so it is important to eat in moderation.

Conclusion:

North Korean food is a unique and unforgettable experience that every foodie should try at least once. From savory soups to iconic street food, North Korean cuisine is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. So, why not take a culinary journey to North Korea and taste the delicious flavors of this mysterious country?

Remember to be cautious when eating street food or drinking tap water and to eat in reputable restaurants. And if you cannot travel to North Korea, try to find a restaurant in your area that serves North Korean cuisine.

So, go ahead and indulge in the famous food in North Korea. You won’t be disappointed!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We do not encourage or condone any illegal activities related to North Korea.