Chinese Food in Korea: A Guide for Foreigners

Hello, I’ve prepared a food guide for foreigners! If you’re in Korea and want to try Chinese food but are unsure what to eat, I’m here to recommend some for you. Chinese cuisine is very diverse and has unique flavors that many people enjoy. Shall we begin?

1. The World of Chinese Food in Korea

Korea is a city where many people of different nationalities and cultures live together. In this multicultural environment, Chinese food is popular among many. There are various Chinese restaurants in Korea where you can taste Chinese cuisine, captivating many with its special taste and diversity.

2. Understanding the Diversity of Chinese Food

Due to regional characteristics, China has a diverse food culture by region. Each region has its own local specialties and cooking methods, leading to the creation of various Chinese dishes. For example, Cantonese cuisine is known for its spicy and savory taste, while the cuisine of the northwest region is rich and robust. Understanding the diversity of Chinese food can make enjoying Chinese cuisine in Korea more interesting.

3. Criteria for Choosing Chinese Restaurants

Since there are various Chinese restaurants in Korea, it can be challenging to choose one. When selecting a Chinese restaurant, consider a few criteria.

First, check the reputation and reviews of the restaurant. Opinions from other customers can greatly help in judging the quality and taste of the Chinese restaurant. Second, consider the diversity and uniqueness of the menu. If you want to enjoy specific regional Chinese dishes or special menus, look for a restaurant that offers them.

4. Popular Chinese Dishes and Their Features

Chinese cuisine consists of various types of dishes. Here, we’ll look at a few popular dishes and their characteristics.

• Jajangmyeon: Jajangmyeon is one of the most famous dishes in Chinese cuisine. This dish, made by stir-frying noodles with various vegetables and meat, is known for its salty taste.

• Sweet and Sour Pork: This dish consists of fried meat that’s crispy on the outside and served with a sweet sauce. The harmony of the crispy exterior and moist meat makes this dish beloved by many.

• Steamed Mixed Dishes: Known as a representative steamed dish in China, it involves cooking a variety of ingredients together. Made with meat, seafood, vegetables, etc., it’s known for its rich taste and aroma.

5. Chinese Food Culture in Korea

When enjoying Chinese food in Korea, consider the cultural characteristics of Korea. In Korea, where rice and soup are usually the main dishes, consider this when ordering Chinese food. The Chinese food menu includes various side dishes and cuisines, allowing you to enjoy a variety of menus together.

6. Recommended Representative Chinese Dishes

Here are some representative Chinese dishes you can taste in Korea.

• Jjamppong: A spicy dish made with noodles and various ingredients in a spicy broth. Its spicy taste and rich ingredients make it popular among many.

• Yangjangpi: A dish made by stir-frying meat and vegetables, served with a sweet and salty sauce. The texture of the meat and the freshness of the vegetables create a delicious combination.

• Spicy Stir-fried Vegetables and Meat: Made by stir-frying meat and vegetables, this dish offers a spicy taste along with a refreshing flavor. Its crispy texture and ample quantity make it popular.

7. Menu Ordering Tips for Foreigners

When ordering from a Chinese restaurant menu, foreigners might find these tips helpful.

First, inform about your preference for the spiciness and quantity of the food. Since Chinese food often prefers spicy flavors, if you want non-spicy food, say “Please make it not spicy.” Second, check information about the quantity of food. Since the serving size in Chinese restaurants can be large, it’s good to check if the quantity can be adjusted in advance.

8. Introduction to Chinese Food Cooking Methods and Ingredients

Chinese food is made using various cooking methods and ingredients. For example, common cooking methods in Chinese cuisine include stir-frying, frying, and steaming. These methods give Chinese dishes their unique taste and aroma. Additionally, Chinese cuisine uses various ingredients, including bean sprouts, carrots, meats, and seafood.

9. Differences Between Korean-style Chinese Food and Authentic Chinese Food

In Korea, there are many cases where Chinese food is adapted to Korean tastes. Korean-style Chinese food and authentic Chinese food from the mainland have some differences. For example, in Korea, seasonings and preferences are often adjusted to create a similar taste to Chinese cuisine. Also, adjustments are made to emphasize spicy or sweet flavors to suit Korean tastes.

10. Enjoying Chinese Food in Korea: Conclusion

When enjoying Chinese food in Korea, experience various dishes and restaurants. Understand the diversity and characteristics of Chinese cuisine, know the tips for ordering menus, and adjust to suit Korean tastes. Chinese food, with its special taste and diversity, will satisfy your palate.

I hope this article helps foreigners gain information about Chinese food they can taste in Korea. I look forward to many people discovering the charm of Chinese food and enjoying various Chinese cuisines in Korea.