26 Trendy Korean Street Foods to Savor
Korean street food is known for its bold flavors and exciting textures, perfect for snacking or a quick meal.
These recipes showcase the best of Korean food culture, with everything from savory skewers to crispy pancakes.
Often enjoyed on bustling streets or at night markets, these dishes are both fun and flavorful.
You won’t want to miss these tasty treats.
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki captures the essence of Korean street food culture with its bold flavors and satisfying texture.
This dish features chewy rice cakes drenched in a spicy, sweet sauce.
Originating from humble beginnings, it has evolved into a beloved favorite across various dining settings.
Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)
Mayak eggs have captivated taste buds with their unique flavor profile.
Soft-boiled and marinated overnight, these gems soak up a delightful blend of sweetness, saltiness, and just the right amount of spice.
Preparing them at home is simple and rewarding; you'll find yourself craving these bites again and again.
Serve them as a snack or add them to your favorite dishes for an extra kick.
Japchae (Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry)
Korean cuisine offers a treasure in the form of japchae, a dish that captures the essence of flavor and texture.
Chewy sweet potato glass noodles provide a delightful base, complemented by an array of colorful vegetables and tender strips of beef.
A harmonious blend of sweet and savory sauce elevates this stir fry, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Rabokki
Ramen enthusiasts will find rabokki a delightful fusion of flavors.
This dish combines the comfort of instant noodles with the vibrant essence of Korean street food.
Tteokbokki sauce infuses each bite with a spicy and savory kick that tantalizes the taste buds.
The chewy texture of rice cakes complements the noodles, creating an exciting mouthfeel.
A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions can elevate this meal, adding both crunch and freshness to every serving.
Korean Hot Dogs
Korean hot dogs take a classic favorite to a whole new level.
A sweet and savory batter envelops the sausage, creating an irresistible outer layer.
Crispy toppings like panko, crushed Cheetos, or even instant ramen noodles add exciting textures with every bite.
Frying brings out golden perfection that tempts anyone nearby.
Each hot dog offers a delightful crunch paired with the juicy goodness of the sausage inside.
Hweori Gamja (Tonado Potatoes)
Tornado potatoes offer a playful twist on traditional snacks, turning ordinary spuds into eye-catching delights.
A simple skewer and knife are all that’s needed to create these spiraled treats.
Flavorful herbs and spices elevate the taste, making each bite exciting.
Whether baked, air-fried, or grilled, these potatoes cook quickly without complicated techniques.
Friends will be amazed at how you whip up this fun dish in your kitchen.
Perfect for gatherings or casual snacking moments!
Korean Sausage Bread
Korean sausage bread offers a delightful twist on the classic pigs in a blanket.
This pastry features savory sausages nestled in soft, fluffy dough, topped with a mouthwatering blend of corn and cheese.
Making it at home is straightforward and rewarding, perfect for satisfying cravings or impressing guests.
The combination of textures, from the tender bread to the creamy topping, creates an enjoyable experience with every bite.
Korean Fish Cake Soup
Korean fish cake soup offers a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart.
This dish features tender fish cakes swimming in a savory broth, often enriched with vegetables like radish and green onions.
A hint of spice from gochugaru can elevate the taste, adding depth without overwhelming the palate.
Preparing this meal is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks at any skill level.
Korean Street Toast Sandwich
Korean street toast sandwich offers a delightful twist on the classic breakfast option.
This recipe features a blend of melty cheese, savory ham, and fluffy eggs nestled between toasted bread.
The unique addition of shredded cabbage slaw adds crunch and freshness to each bite, elevating the flavor profile.
A hint of sugar in the egg mixture balances out the savory elements.
Quick to prepare, this sandwich is ideal for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.
Kimbap (Korean Seaweed Roll)
Kimbap, a delightful Korean dish, features rice and various fillings wrapped in seaweed.
This recipe provides clear video instructions to guide you through the preparation process.
Fresh vegetables, protein options like beef or tofu, and flavorful seasonings come together for a satisfying meal.
portable, kimbap works well for picnics or lunch on the go.
Each roll offers a burst of flavors that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes)
Hotteok captures the essence of South Korean street food with its delightful sweetness and chewy texture.
These pancakes are filled with a heavenly mix of sugar, cinnamon, and crushed peanuts that create a satisfying crunch.
When cooked on a griddle, they puff up, turning golden brown while releasing an irresistible aroma.
Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancakes)
Pajeon offers a delightful experience for any meal, whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a larger feast.
The crispy texture combined with fresh ingredients creates an irresistible treat.
Preparing these pancakes takes just about 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
Dipping them in your favorite sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the dish's appeal.
With each bite, you'll appreciate the balance of savory and satisfying tastes that this recipe provides.
This dish not only fills your stomach but also brings excitement to your dining table with its vibrant colors and textures.
Bindaetteok
Korean pancakes made from mung beans offer a delightful twist on traditional flavors.
Bindaetteok, as they are known, feature a crispy exterior and a soft interior that will surely entice your taste buds.
The use of ground mung beans gives these pancakes their unique texture and nutty flavor profile.
Preparing them at home allows for customization; you can add vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences.
Mandu (Korean Dumplings)
Mandu offers a delightful culinary adventure right in your kitchen.
With store-bought wrappers, the process becomes quick and straightforward, inviting everyone to join in.
Stuffing options are endless; mix vegetables, meats, or even tofu for a personal touch.
These dumplings shine as snacks or appetizers at gatherings and can easily transition into a light meal any day of the week.
Korean Egg Bread
Korean egg bread offers a delightful combination of flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
This savory treat features a fluffy exterior, while the inside is filled with rich ingredients like eggs, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese.
The aroma wafting through your home as it bakes creates an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in.
Preparing this dish is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, making it accessible for anyone who wants to try something new.
Chimaek (Korean Fried Chicken)
Korean fried chicken bites offer a delightful experience with their crispy exterior and juicy interior, achieved through the magic of double frying.
The sweet and spicy glaze adds an irresistible flavor.
This dish captures the essence of street food culture, bringing excitement to any meal or gathering.
Pairing these bites with soju or ice-cold beer elevates the enjoyment to another level.
Korean Egg Roll Kimbap
Korean egg roll kimbap combines a fluffy egg roll wrapped in seasoned rice and seaweed, creating a unique twist on traditional kimbap.
Perfect for lunch boxes or picnics, it offers both convenience and flavor in every bite.
Packed with protein and vibrant colors, this meal is visually appealing as well as satisfying.
Korean Corn Dog
Korean corn dogs feature sausages skewered on a stick, enveloped in a fluffy yeasted batter and coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs.
Deep frying them yields a delightful golden exterior that contrasts with the juicy filling inside.
Topping these snacks with sugar, ketchup, and mustard creates an exciting blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Kimchi Pork Steamed Buns
Kimchi pork buns offer a delightful culinary experience.
The fluffy, springy texture of the steamed buns pairs with the spicy kick of kimchi and succulent pork filling.
This recipe includes a video guide, making it easy for anyone to master this dish at home.
With each bite, flavors burst in your mouth, creating an unforgettable taste sensation.
Bingsu (Korean Shaved Ice)
Bingsu offers a delightful escape from the heat, transforming any day into a refreshing treat.
Fluffy and lightly sweetened, this Korean shaved ice dessert can easily become your go-to indulgence.
Experimentation with toppings makes each bowl uniquely yours; fresh fruits, sweet red beans, or even chocolate syrup can elevate the experience.
The contrast of textures, smooth ice against crunchy toppings, creates an enjoyable eating experience.
Korean Twisted Donuts (Kkwabaegi)
Korean twisted donuts, known as kkwabaegi, capture attention with their delightful appearance and texture.
Soft and fluffy on the inside, they offer a satisfying chewiness.
The golden brown exterior is generously coated in cinnamon sugar, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Finding these treats at Korean bakeries or street food stalls adds to their charm; they feel like a little adventure in every bite.
Korean Chicken Bao
Steamed mini bao buns filled with crispy Korean chicken can elevate any gathering.
These delightful bites offer a perfect balance of soft texture and savory flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser.
The preparation involves several steps, but the end result is incredibly satisfying.
A touch of creativity shines through in each bun, inviting everyone to indulge in something special.
Tteokkochi (Korean Rice Cake Skewers)
Tteokkochi shines as a beloved street food in Seoul, capturing the essence of Korean snacking.
These cylindrical rice cakes offer a delightful blend of crunch and chewiness.
The grilling process adds a smoky flavor, enhancing their appeal.
A generous drizzle of sweet and spicy gochujang sauce elevates the experience with its bold taste.
Korean Chicken Skewers (Dakkochi)
Dakkochi offers a delightful twist on traditional grilled chicken, served conveniently on a stick.
The sauce is the star of the show, thick and sticky with flavors that linger long after your meal.
Sweet and salty combinations cater to those who enjoy balance, while sweet and spicy options provide an exciting kick for adventurous eaters.
This dish captures the essence of street food culture with its vibrant taste profile that appeals to many palates.
Perfect for gatherings or casual snacking, dakkochi invites everyone to dig in without hesitation.
Grab your favorite dipping sauce or simply savor it as is; either way, this treat promises satisfaction in every bite!
Korean Popcorn Chicken (Dakgangjeong)
Korean popcorn chicken captures attention with its irresistible crunch and bold flavors.
Bite-sized pieces coated in a delightful blend of seasonings offer a taste adventure that appeals to all ages.
The option to slather them in sweet and spicy gochujang sauce adds an exciting twist, elevating the snacking experience.
Serving these nuggets alongside the sauce allows for customization, ensuring everyone can enjoy their preferred level of heat.
Bungeoppang (Korean Fish-Shaped Bread)
Learning to craft authentic Asian desserts at home opens up a world of flavors.
Korean fish-shaped bread, known as bungeoppang, offers a delightful twist on the classic Japanese taiyaki.
This treat features a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft and airy interior.
Sweet red bean filling adds an irresistible touch that complements the pastry's texture.
Making these treats can be an enjoyable activity for anyone who loves baking or trying new recipes.
Linda Dean
Expertise
Culinary Arts, Food Journalism, Global Cuisine, Exploration, Recipe Development, Cultural Food Studies, Culinary Travel and Storytelling
Education
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY
Program: Associate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Developed a comprehensive understanding of global cuisines and essential cooking techniques. Engaged in intensive hands-on practice in both kitchens and real-world settings, guided by expert chefs. This program emphasized the application of culinary skills in professional environments, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.
City, University of London, London, UK
Program: BA Journalism
Focus: Gained expertise in media studies with a strong foundation in reporting, editing, and communicating. While the program focuses broadly on journalism, the skills acquired apply to food journalism, including the ability to analyze and report on food culture and culinary trends effectively.
Linda Dean is an experienced chef and food writer who loves exploring flavors from around the world. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Linda has spent over ten years mastering the art of making dishes that truly represent different cultures. She also studied journalism at City, University of London, which helps her write engaging stories about these foods.
On heythattastesgood.com, Linda shares recipes that bring the world’s kitchens to her readers. She focuses on authentic tastes and the stories behind them, making it easy for anyone to try international cuisine at home.