Best Cheap Food in South Korea: A Foodie’s Guide

South Korea is famous for its delicious cuisine, but you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it. From street food to local restaurants, there are plenty of affordable options available. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cheap food in South Korea that will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet. So, let’s dive in and discover the best food that South Korea has to offer!

🍜 Best Noodle Dishes

South Korea is known for its diverse range of noodle dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Here are some must-try noodle dishes:

Jjajangmyeon

Jjajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese dish that consists of hand-made noodles topped with a thick sauce made from black bean paste, diced pork, and vegetables. It’s a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Bibim Guksu

Bibim Guksu is a cold noodle dish that is perfect for hot summer days. The dish consists of thin noodles, fresh vegetables, and a spicy chili sauce. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors is a delight for the taste buds.

Naengmyeon

Naengmyeon is a cold noodle dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. The dish consists of thin noodles, sliced beef, and fresh vegetables, all served in a cool broth made from beef or dongchimi (radish water kimchi). It’s a refreshing and light meal that’s perfect for lunch.

🍗 Best Fried Chicken

No trip to South Korea would be complete without trying their famous fried chicken. Here are some of the best places to get your fried chicken fix:

Kyochon Chicken

Kyochon Chicken is a popular fried chicken chain in South Korea that serves up crispy and juicy chicken. They have a variety of flavors to choose from, including soy garlic and honey, and their chicken is cooked to perfection.

Bhc Chicken

Bhc Chicken is another popular fried chicken chain that’s known for its crispy and flavorful chicken. They have a variety of sauces to choose from, including sweet chili and garlic, and their chicken is always hot and fresh.

Two Two Chicken

Two Two Chicken is a popular fried chicken chain that’s known for its crispy and juicy chicken. They have a variety of flavors to choose from, including spicy and soy garlic, and their chicken is always cooked to perfection.

🍚 Best Rice Dishes

Rice is a staple in Korean cuisine, and there are countless delicious rice dishes to choose from. Here are some of the best rice dishes:

Bibimbap

Bibimbap is a popular rice dish that consists of rice, vegetables, and meat, all topped with a fried egg and spicy sauce. It’s a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Jumulleok

Jumulleok is a spicy rice dish that’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat. The dish consists of rice, minced beef, and vegetables, all cooked in a spicy sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi Fried Rice is a popular rice dish that’s made with leftover rice, kimchi, and various other ingredients. The dish is easy to make and is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

🍲 Best Stews and Soups

Stews and soups are a staple in Korean cuisine, and there are countless delicious options to choose from. Here are some of the best stews and soups:

Kimchi Jjigae

Kimchi Jjigae is a spicy stew made with kimchi, pork, and tofu. It’s a flavorful and hearty stew that’s perfect for cold winter days.

Doenjang Jjigae

Doenjang Jjigae is a soybean paste stew that’s packed with flavor. The stew is made with a variety of vegetables, beef, and tofu, all cooked in a thick and savory broth.

Gomtang

Gomtang is a traditional beef soup that’s made with beef bones and brisket. The soup is simmered for hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth that’s perfect for a cold day.

🍠 Best Street Food

South Korea is known for its vibrant street food scene, and there are countless delicious options to choose from. Here are some must-try street food dishes:

Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki is a popular street food dish that consists of chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy sauce. The dish is often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs and is perfect for a quick snack.

Hotteok

Hotteok is a sweet and savory street food snack that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. The snack consists of a fried dough filled with cinnamon, sugar, and nuts.

Bungeoppang

Bungeoppang is a fish-shaped pastry that’s filled with sweet red bean paste. It’s a popular street food snack that’s perfect for those who love a sweet treat.

🍷 Best Alcoholic Drinks

South Korea is known for its alcoholic drinks, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some must-try drinks:

Makgeolli

Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine that’s mildly sweet and slightly carbonated. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion.

Soju

Soju is a clear distilled liquor that’s similar to vodka. It’s a popular drink in South Korea and is often consumed with food.

Bokbunja

Bokbunja is a sweet and fruity wine made from black raspberries. It’s a popular drink in South Korea and is often consumed on special occasions.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most famous Korean dish?

The most famous Korean dish is probably kimchi, a spicy fermented vegetable side dish that is served with almost every meal in Korea.

2. Is Korean food spicy?

Yes, Korean food is known for its spicy flavors, but not all Korean dishes are spicy. It’s always a good idea to ask your server about the spiciness level before ordering.

3. What is the best time to visit South Korea for food?

The best time to visit South Korea for food is during the fall and winter months when there are plenty of seasonal dishes available.

4. What is the difference between bulgogi and galbi?

Bulgogi is a marinated beef dish that’s grilled or pan-fried, while galbi is a grilled beef short rib dish. Both dishes are delicious and worth trying.

5. Are there vegetarian options in Korean cuisine?

Yes, there are vegetarian options available in Korean cuisine, such as bibimbap and vegetable pancakes.

6. What is the best way to order food in a Korean restaurant?

The best way to order food in a Korean restaurant is to ask your server for recommendations and to try a variety of dishes.

7. What is the etiquette for eating in South Korea?

In South Korea, it’s considered polite to wait for everyone at the table to be served before eating, and to use chopsticks and a spoon when eating.

👉 Conclusion

South Korea is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of delicious and affordable dishes to choose from. From noodle dishes to street food snacks, there’s something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to South Korea and indulge in all of the amazing food that this country has to offer!

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Prices and availability may vary due to factors outside of our control. Please check with individual restaurants and vendors before making any purchases.