Vegetarian Korean Dishes: Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavours, vibrant colours, and diverse range of dishes. If you're a beginner in the kitchen and looking to try Korean cooking with a vegetarian twist, then this article will help you. But with so many dishes to choose from, where do you start? We’ve rounded up some simple, tasty, and vegetarian-friendly Korean dishes that are very easy to try. Whether you’re craving something spicy, sweet, or savoury, these are worth the try:
5 Best Vegetarian Korean Dishes To Try At Home
1. Bibimbap
One of the most iconic Korean dishes, bibimbap is a simple yet delicious choice for beginners. The word Bibimbap translates to ‘Mixed Rice’. It’s essentially a bowl of steamed rice topped with a variety of stirred-fried vegetables like spinach, onions, mushrooms, carrots, and zucchini. Traditionally, it also includes a fried egg on top, making it hearty and filling. For a vegetarian version, you can easily skip the meat/egg and still enjoy the incredible flavours.
2. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
Kimchi Jjigae - a spicy, sour, and savory stew, is a staple in Korean households. In the vegetarian style, tofu and vegetables replace the meat, creating a comforting and warming stew. Kimchi, the fermented cabbage that’s a core part of Korean cuisine, provides a deep, tangy flavour that’s perfect for this dish. This stew is simmered in a rich broth made with vegetable stock, tofu, and, of course, plenty of kimchi. The combination of the fermented flavours of the kimchi with the soft tofu makes for a heartwarming meal, especially on a chilly or rainy day.
3. Banchan
In Korean cuisine, Banchan refers to small side dishes served alongside the main dish. These side dishes are often vegetarian and add variety, texture, and flavour to the meal. Common vegetarian banchan include Kongnamul Muchim (Seasoned Soybean Sprouts), Sigeumchi Namul (Seasoned Spinach), Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad), Hobak Bokkeum, Sukju Namul (Seasoned Bean Sprouts). Banchan are typically light, healthy, and easy to prepare.
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4. Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made with sweet potato glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables. The noodles have a chewy texture, while the vegetables add freshness and crunch. The dish is seasoned with a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar, creating a sweet and savoury flavour profile. Japchae is a highly versatile dish that can easily be made vegetarian. It’s a great choice for beginners because it requires minimal cooking skills, and the ingredients are readily available.
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5. Kimchi Fried Rice
If you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Kimchi Fried Rice is an excellent choice. It is a versatile protein source that can absorb the flavours of any dish it’s added to. Kimchi Fried Rice is often cooked with vegetables like scallions, onion, carrot, and mushrooms, and then flavoured with soy sauce, and sesame oil. Kimchi Fried Rice is an easy and beginner-friendly way to enjoy Korean flavours without putting in too much time.
Korean cuisine is full of delicious and vegetarian-friendly options that are perfect for beginners. So make sure to try these.
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