Gwangjang Market, located in the heart of Seoul, is a food lover's paradise and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best Korean street foods. This bustling marketplace is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and, most importantly, its delicious street food offerings. Here are some of the iconic dishes you can't miss during your visit.
Bindaetteok is a delicious mung bean pancake that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Made from ground mung beans mixed with vegetables, this dish is pan-fried to perfection. At Gwangjang Market, you'll find vendors serving freshly made bindaetteok, often accompanied by a side of soy sauce for dipping. The blend of flavors and textures makes this a must-try street food.
Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food that features chewy rice cakes tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, often made with gochujang (Korean chili paste). At Gwangjang Market, you can savor tteokbokki served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and green onions. This dish is perfect for a quick snack or a filling meal as you explore the market.
Mayak gimbap, translated as "addictive gimbap," consists of rice and various fillings rolled in seaweed. It's often described as simpler than traditional gimbap but is just as flavorful. These mini rolls are typically served with a side of soy sauce and a dash of wasabi, making them a delightful snack to munch on while navigating Gwangjang Market.
Another staple of Korean street food, jeon is a type of savory pancake filled with various ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, or even kimchi. Gwangjang Market offers a variety of jeon options, with the seafood variety being particularly popular. Crispy and packed with flavor, jeon is best enjoyed hot, straight off the griddle.
For a dessert option, hotteok is a must-try. This sweet Korean pancake is filled with a mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts, then fried until golden brown and crispy. The warm filling oozes out when you take a bite, creating a delightful treat that balances sweetness and texture. Gwangjang Market is known for some of the best hotteok in the city.
Kimbap is another popular rice roll that differs from gimbap in its ingredients and preparation. Typically filled with a variety of pickled vegetables, eggs, and meat, kimbap is rolled up in sheets of seaweed for a handy snack. Vendors at Gwangjang Market offer fresh kimbap that is perfect for a quick meal as you stroll through the market.
Sundae is a traditional Korean dish made from pig's blood, rice, and various seasonings, all stuffed into a casing. While it may sound unusual, it is a beloved street food among locals. Gwangjang Market provides a unique experience with fresh sundae served accompanied by a spicy dipping sauce and garnished with green onions.
Visiting Gwangjang Market is not just about shopping; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen. With each bite of these comforting and flavorful street foods, you will find yourself immersed in the rich tapestry of Korean culture. Make sure to explore every corner of the market to discover your next favorite dish!