Ever faced those evenings when dinner needs to be effortless yet fulfilling? I understand! That’s why I’ve compiled the ‘Top 20 Must-Try Korean Dinner Recipes.’ Bid farewell to kitchen hassles and embrace the flavorful simplicity of these Korean recipes. From chicken fried wonders to comforting stews, these dishes offer a shortcut to a scrumptious meal without the hassle. Let’s explore these Korean dinner ideas that promise taste without the fuss!
1- Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Here’s a Korean-inspired dish that’s easy, nutritious, and adaptable to any season. It’s budget-friendly, and you can prep the sauce beforehand for quick future meals! For an extra flavorful feast, throw in some homemade or store-bought kimchi.
2- Oven Baked Korean BBQ Beef Ribs
Give these amazingly tender oven-baked Korean BBQ beef ribs a try! They’re a hit with everyone and perfect for those special dinners you want to make unforgettable!
3- Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew – Sundubu Jjigae
Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy and cozy Korean stew. It’s made with soft tofu, veggies, and sometimes meat or seafood. The spicy sauce makes it hot and yummy, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day!
4- Galbi – Korean BBQ Marinated Beef Short Ribs
Beef Short Ribs marinated in BBQ sauce (Galbi) are stars in the world-renowned Korean barbecue scene! Korean BBQ marinades work wonders—packed with incredible flavors and the ability to make tougher cuts like short ribs tender, resulting in a succulent, sweet, savory, and garlicky delight.
5- Korean Spinach Banchan
Spinach banchan is a traditional Korean side dish often found in Korean cuisine.
6- Korean Seafood Pancake (Haemul Pajeon)
Haemul Pajeon is a tasty Korean seafood pancake loaded with fresh seafood. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for dipping!
7- Cheese Tteokbokki
This Cheese Tteokbokki showcases chewy Korean rice cakes covered in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce, topped with melted cheese. Adding cheese takes your tteokbokki to a whole new level!
8- Korean Spicy Beef Vegetable Soup (Yukgaejang)
Yukgaejang is a spicy beef and vegetable soup from Korea. It’s a hearty dish made with thinly sliced beef, lots of veggies like bean sprouts and fernbrake, seasoned with spicy red pepper flakes. This soup is known for its bold flavors and comforting warmth.
9- Tofu and Kimchi Dumplings
These tofu and kimchi dumplings are ideal for gatherings. Packed with tofu, kimchi, carrots, shallots, and spices, their filling is flavorful. Pan-fry them for that extra crispy bottom!
10- Ojingeo Bokkeum (Korean Spicy Stir-fried Squid)
Ojingeo bokkeum is a fiery stir-fried squid dish. If you’re a fan of spicy food and squid, this dish, bursting with flavor, is a breeze to whip up using a handful of common Korean ingredients.
11- Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Fried Chicken, often called KFC, is a popular dish in Korea. It’s crispy, juicy chicken that’s fried twice for extra crunchiness. After frying, it’s coated in a flavorful sauce, typically sweet and spicy or soy garlic, resulting in a perfect balance of crispy, saucy goodness.
12- Korean Spicy Chicken Stew (Dakdoritang)
Dakdoritang is a spicy Korean chicken stew with potatoes, carrots, and onions. It’s packed with heat from gochujang and gochugaru, making it perfect for cold days.
13- Eomuk-bokkeum (Stir Fried Fish Cakes)
Eomuk-bokkeum is a Korean dish of stir-fried fish cakes. These chewy, savory fish cakes are cooked with vegetables like carrots, onions, and scallions in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes gochujang for a touch of spice.
14- Gochujang Korean Chicken with Kimchi and Pickled Radish
This Yummy dish isn’t just tasty; it’s a nutrition win! Packed with lean protein from the chicken, a boost of vitamins and probiotics from the kimchi, and a dose of fiber and antioxidants from the pickled radish. Gochujang, the star ingredient, adds a spicy kick and brings anti-inflammatory benefits.
15- Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles, also known as “Youpo Noodles” or “Youpo Mian,” are a popular Chinese dish known for their bold and spicy flavors.
16- Spicy Raw Crab (Yangnyeom Gejang)
Yangnyeom Gejang is a spicy marinated raw crab from Korea. Fresh crabs soak up a mix of soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and sugar, creating a spicy, savory treat with a hint of sweetness.
17- Kimchi Bokkeumbap
Here’s a must-have for your weeknight meals: Korean Kimchi Fried Rice. It’s smoky, bold, wonderfully satisfying, and perfect for utilizing leftover rice.
18- Acorn Jelly (Dotorimuk)
Acorn Jelly is a tasty, low-calorie Korean side dish bursting with earthy flavors. Crafted from acorn powder, Dotorimuk boasts a smooth, jello-like texture that melts in your mouth. The zesty seasoning sauce adds a delightful punch to every bite. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly!
19- Mul Naengmyeon (Korean Cold Noodle Soup)
Mul Naengmyeon is a Korean cold noodle soup. It features thin, chewy noodles served in a chilled broth made from beef or radish water kimchi. Topped with slices of cucumber, pear, and a boiled egg, it’s a refreshing and tangy dish, perfect for hot weather.
20- Jajangmyeon (Noodles in Black Bean Sauce)
Jajangmyeon is a popular Korean dish consisting of noodles topped with a thick, savory black bean sauce made from fermented black bean paste, diced pork or other proteins, and various vegetables like onions, zucchini, and potatoes. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal enjoyed for its rich taste and hearty textures.