When you sit down at a Korean dining table, you’ll always notice a variety of small dishes placed alongside the main meal. These are called banchan

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Korean side dishes that are served with almost every meal. They are flavorful, healthy, and full of variety! In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 most commonly eaten side dishes in Korea. Let’s dive in! 😋

1. Kimchi (김치) – Fermented Spicy Cabbage 🌶️

🥢 What is it?

Kimchi is Korea’s most iconic side dish. It’s made by fermenting napa cabbage with red chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce.

💡 Why do Koreans eat it so much?

• Kimchi is full of probiotics and vitamins.
• It goes well with rice, stew, or noodles.
• It has a bold, spicy, and tangy flavor.

💸 Cost:

• Supermarket: 500g for around ₩3,000–₩5,000 ($2–$4)
• Homemade kimchi: More affordable in bulk

🧑‍🍳 Example:

Try it with Korean BBQ or fried rice! 🍖🍳

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2. Kongnamul Muchim (콩나물무침) – Seasoned Soybean Sprouts 🌱

🥢 What is it?

Lightly boiled soybean sprouts seasoned with sesame oil, garlic, salt, and green onions.

💡 Why is it popular?

• Simple, healthy, and refreshing taste
• Great source of protein and fiber
• Often included in lunchboxes and Bibimbap

💸 Cost:

• Very cheap! Ingredients cost under ₩2,000 ($1.50) for a large batch

🧑‍🍳 Example:

Pair it with grilled fish or bulgogi. 🐟🥩

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3. Jangjorim (장조림) – Soy Sauce Braised Beef or Eggs 🍳🥩

🥢 What is it?

Beef (or eggs) simmered in soy sauce with garlic and chili for a salty, savory taste.

💡 Why do people love it?

• Long shelf life, perfect for meal prep
• Deliciously salty and protein-rich

💸 Cost:

• Homemade version: Around ₩10,000 ($7) for 3–4 servings
• Convenient store-pack: ₩3,000–₩4,000 per portion

🧑‍🍳 Example:

Try jangjorim with plain rice – simple but delicious!

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4. Gamja Jorim (감자조림) – Braised Potatoes 🥔

🥢 What is it?

Potatoes braised in soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until tender and glossy.

💡 Why is it common?

• Mild and sweet taste that even kids love!
• Easy to cook and store

💸 Cost:

• Potatoes and seasonings: ₩3,000–₩4,000 ($2.50) for 4 servings

🧑‍🍳 Example:

Perfect with lunch boxes or simple rice meals

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5. Gim (김) – Roasted Seaweed 🪸

🥢 What is it?

Thin sheets of seaweed roasted with sesame oil and salt.

💡 Why is it popular?

• Crunchy, salty snack-like side dish
• Often used to wrap rice or eaten as a crispy topping

💸 Cost:

• 1 pack (20 sheets): ₩2,000–₩4,000 ($1.50–$3)

🧑‍🍳 Example:

Roll rice in gim to make mini kimbap! 🍙

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📝 Conclusion

Korean side dishes are much more than just small plates – they reflect Korea’s culinary culture, balance, and creativity. Whether you’re trying kimchi for the first time or enjoying seasoned sprouts, these banchan will make your Korean meal more exciting and tasty!

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🔖 Hashtags (English)

• #KoreanFood
• #Banchan
• #KimchiLovers
• #KoreanSideDishes
• #TasteOfKorea