Are you a foodie looking to explore the flavors of Korea? Or perhaps you’re a Korean food enthusiast who wants to learn some new and delicious recipes to try at home. Whatever your motivation, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 simple and easy Korean recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From classic dishes like kimchi fried rice and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to modern twists on traditional favorites like Korean egg roll and bibimbap with store-bought sauce, these recipes will help you get started on your culinary journey in Korea. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple yet flavorful Korean recipes are sure to become instant favorites in your household.
Kimchi Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and spicy Korean-inspired dish with this simple recipe. Kimchi Fried Rice combines the savory taste of kimchi with the comfort of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or cooked chicken for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion-garlic mixture.
5. Add the chopped kimchi, cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish that’s sweet, savory, and ridiculously easy to make. This recipe yields tender beef strips marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), preferably ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including marinating time)
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes and a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Seoul to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 200g tteok (Korean rice cakes)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cups water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and diced carrots for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the tteok according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked tteok to the sauce and stir to coat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional ingredients if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Egg Roll (Gyeran Mari)
A classic Korean snack, Gyeran Mari is a delicious and easy-to-make egg roll filled with sweet and savory ingredients. This recipe yields a crispy exterior and creamy interior that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (choose one or a combination):
+ 1/2 cup diced vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
+ 1/2 cup cooked and mashed potatoes
+ 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, water, salt, and sugar until smooth.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is set.
4. Sprinkle your chosen filling ingredients on half of the egg mixture.
5. Fold the other half of the egg mixture over the filling to form a roll shape.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Quick Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir Fry)
Japchae, also known as Glass Noodle Stir Fry, is a popular Korean dish made with sweet potato starch noodles and a variety of vegetables. This quick and easy recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any time.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (dangmyeon)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add bell peppers, bean sprouts, and cooked noodles. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
Doenjang jjigae is a classic Korean comfort food that warms the heart and soul. This simple recipe showcases the rich, savory flavor of soybean paste in a hearty stew.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the doenjang and gochujang, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the garlic, onion, vegetable broth, water, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Easy Korean Pancakes (Pajeon)
Satisfy your cravings with these crispy and savory Korean-style pancakes, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in water and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and spread evenly to form a pancake shape.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Bibimbap with Store-Bought Sauce
This recipe takes the classic Korean dish Bibimbap to the next level by using store-bought sauce, making it a quick and easy meal option. With this simple recipe, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious bowl of goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, zucchini, etc.)
– 1/4 cup store-bought Bibimbap sauce
– 1/2 cup diced beef or tofu
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. In a separate pan or wok, add the diced beef or tofu and cook until browned.
4. In a large bowl, arrange the cooked rice, vegetables, and meat in layers.
5. Drizzle the store-bought Bibimbap sauce over the top.
6. If desired, fry an egg in the pan and place it on top of the dish.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fast Kimchi Stew (Kimchi Jjigae)
A spicy and savory Korean-inspired stew that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender pork and comforting noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup noodles of your choice (e.g., rice noodles, udon, or soba)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the pork is tender.
6. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and add them to the stew.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
This hearty stew is a popular Korean comfort food that originated from the country’s military cuisine. It’s a simple, flavorful dish made with a variety of ingredients, including canned goods and leftover vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced potatoes
– 1/4 cup diced green beans
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 cups water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Optional: 2 eggs, beaten; chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, kimchi, cooked rice, carrots, potatoes, green beans, soy sauce, Gochujang, sugar, and black pepper.
2. Add water to the pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Korean Soy Garlic Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of soy sauce with the pungency of garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. This recipe yields a deliciously savory chicken with a sticky glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and water. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together blended mixture and sesame oil. Add chicken and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Gamja Jorim (Braised Potatoes)
This classic Korean dish is a comforting and flavorful way to enjoy potatoes. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste (optional)
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the potato chunks and stir to coat with the oil and garlic mixture.
4. Pour in the water and add black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt if desired. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Kongnamul Muchim (Soybean Sprout Salad)
This refreshing Korean salad is a staple in many households, perfect as a side dish or light lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of soybean sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soybean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the soybean sprouts in cold water, drain well.
2. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, Gochujang, garlic, and sesame oil. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the soybean sprouts to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fast Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)
This refreshing Korean-inspired salad is a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. With its spicy kick and crunchy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cucumber mixture and toss again.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Simple Korean Corn Cheese
A classic Korean side dish that combines sweet corn with creamy cheese and a hint of spices, perfect for pairing with any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels and sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Add grated cheese, melted butter, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Gyeran Bap (Egg Rice)
Gyeran Bap is a simple and comforting Korean dish that combines fluffy rice with savory scrambled eggs. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be prepared in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through, breaking up any large curds.
3. Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry with the eggs until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Quick Sigeumchi Namul (Spinach Side Dish)
This simple Korean side dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and pairs well with a variety of dishes. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can have this tasty namul ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of spinach (about 1 pound)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Rinse the spinach leaves and drain well.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of the spinach.
7. Serve hot alongside your favorite Korean dishes.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes from start to finish.
Fast Korean Ramen with Egg
Get a delicious and satisfying meal on the table quickly with this simple recipe for Fast Korean Ramen with Egg. This dish combines the comfort of ramen noodles with the richness of a fried egg and savory Korean flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Korean-style ramen noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, bean sprouts, and/or diced pork for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, and black pepper.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Crack in the egg and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the egg. Pour in the soy-Gochujang mixture and toss everything together.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Simple Hobak Jeon (Zucchini Pancakes)
These crispy and savory zucchini pancakes are a staple in Korean cuisine, often served as a side dish or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious Hobak Jeon to enjoy with your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a batter forms.
3. Gradually add water to achieve a thick but still pourable consistency.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil and flatten slightly.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Easy Miyeok Guk (Seaweed Soup)
Miyeok Guk, a popular Korean soup, is a comforting and nourishing meal made with dried seaweed, vegetables, and a savory broth. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dried miyeok (dried seaweed)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried miyeok in cold water, then soak it in hot water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the miyeok and cut it into smaller pieces.
3. In a large pot, combine the soaked miyeok, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, onion, garlic, and carrot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Korea with these 20 simple and easy recipes perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like kimchi fried rice and bulgogi to comforting stews like doenjang jjigae and budae jjigae, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Korean-style pancakes, pan-frying chicken, or whipping up a quick and spicy ramyeon noodle dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious weekend brunch, these easy-to-follow recipes are sure to become new favorites.