Located in the heart of Seoul, Gwangjang Market is a vibrant hub of street food culture, drawing both locals and tourists eager to explore its culinary delights. This bustling market, one of Korea's oldest, offers an unforgettable street food experience that showcases the rich flavors and traditional dishes of Korean cuisine. Here are some of the best street food experiences you should not miss when visiting Gwangjang Market.
Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes)
One of the most iconic street foods at Gwangjang Market is bindaetteok, or mung bean pancakes. Made from ground mung beans, vegetables, and sometimes pork, these savory pancakes are fried to perfection, creating a crispy exterior with a soft, hearty center. Visit the popular bindaetteok stalls, where you can watch skilled chefs prepare these delicious treats right before your eyes. Enjoy them hot off the pan with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
Kongguksu (Cold Soybean Noodles)
Perfect for warm days, kongguksu features cold noodles in a creamy soybean broth, garnished with cucumber and sesame seeds. This refreshing dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Stop by a specialty stall to enjoy a bowl of kongguksu that captures the essence of Korean summer cuisine. The smooth, rich flavor of the soybean broth makes it a must-try when exploring Gwangjang Market.
Mayak Gimbap (Addictive Rice Rolls)
Another street food favorite is mayak gimbap, which translates to "addictive rice rolls." These bite-sized seaweed-wrapped rice rolls are filled with a variety of ingredients such as pickled vegetables and egg. The name "mayak" reflects how irresistibly delicious they are. Visitors often enjoy them with a side of mustard sauce for an extra kick. Grab a few rolls, and you’ll see why they are a sensation among market-goers.
Jeon (Korean Pancakes)
Gwangjang Market is well-known for its variety of jeon, or Korean pancakes, which include a range of ingredients from seafood to vegetables. Each type of jeon is pan-fried until golden brown, offering a crunchy outer layer with a soft and flavorful interior. Be sure to taste kimchi jeon or seafood jeon, both of which exemplify the market's culinary diversity. Pair your jeon with a refreshing drink for the perfect snack.
Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)
For those with a sweet tooth, hotteok is a must-try dessert available at Gwangjang Market. These Korean sweet pancakes are filled with a delicious mixture of brown sugar, honey, chopped nuts, and cinnamon. When cooked, the filling melts into a gooey treat, perfect for indulging your sweet cravings. The warm, crispy exterior and sweet, syrupy filling make hotteok a popular choice among visitors seeking a sweet street food experience.
Sundae (Korean Blood Sausage)
For the adventurous eater, sundae, or Korean blood sausage, is a unique street food option at Gwangjang Market. Made from pig’s intestines stuffed with a mixture of glutinous rice, sweet potato noodles, and blood, sundae is often served with a side of spicy dipping sauce. It is an acquired taste but beloved by many locals. Don’t miss out on trying this traditional dish that has a rich history in Korean cuisine.
Conclusion
Visiting Gwangjang Market is not just about shopping; it’s about immersing yourself in Korea’s culinary traditions. From savory pancakes to sweet treats, the street food offerings here present a delightful opportunity to taste authentic flavors and experience local culture. Make sure to bring your appetite and explore all the delicious options that await you at Gwangjang Market.