Top 10 Korean Food Items You Should Grab from a Korean Mart Today
Korean culture has made its way into the hearts of people around the globe through its skincare products, music, and, most importantly, its cuisine. Individuals are willing to try out different things given the rich flavors and irresistible variety. When you are watching a Korean drama and looking at the characters enjoying the tasty-looking dishes, a visit to a Korean mart can open up considerable possibilities.
The Marts are packed with all the flavorful items you are looking for, from spicy noodles to fermented superfoods and drinks. However, with multiple choices, it can be hard to decide where to start. Let’s look at the 10 Korean food articles you should grab from a Korean mart today.
Top 10 Korean Food Items
Here are some bold, flavourful items you should get from the mart in Korea.
Kimchi
One of the most iconic and famous items is Kimchi. It is a fermented vegetable dish spiced with chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. Most people might think it's just pungent, but many other flavors also make it a bit tangy. It’s also packed with probiotics that promote gut health.
How to Use It:
- As a side dish with any Korean meal
- Stirred into fried rice (Kimchi Bokkeumbap)
- In kimchi stew (Kimchi Jjigae)
Tip: You can also try out different variations in vegetables and spice levels to find out which suits you the best.
Instant Ramen
Another item every K-drama fan dreams about is the infamous ramen noodles. They’re chewy, savory, and often come with clever toppings or sauce packets. You can also add some side dishes like slivered cucumbers, kimchi, or tofu.
Top Picks:
- Shin Ramyun: Bold and spicy
- Samyang Buldak (Hot Chicken): For heat seekers
- Jin Ramen: Milder and hearty
How to Use It:
- As-is for a quick meal
- Add eggs, green onions, cheese, or dumplings for an upgrade.
Gochujang
The secret behind the most tasty and appealing-looking Korean dish is the red chili paste, which is stored to add a sweet, smoky, and spicy depth. You will find this in every Korean household.
You can use it as:
- In sauces and marinades (especially for bulgogi or bibimbap)
- As a base for spicy soups and stews
- Mixed with vinegar and sugar for dipping sauces
Tip: If you occasionally cook Korean dishes, it is better to buy a smaller container.
Korean Rice Cakes
Another dish that has taken over the internet is Tteokbokki, which means chewy rice cylinders. It is a cherished street food, made with a zesty sauce, and sometimes also has fish cakes and boiled eggs.
How to Use It:
- Simmer in spicy sauce for classic tteokbokki
- Add to hot pot or stir-fries.
- Pan-fry with soy and sesame oil for a savory snack
Tip: For better texture, go for the fresh or refrigerated version instead of the frozen ones.
Korean BBQ Marinades
No part of the world is now unfamiliar with Korean BBQs. If you wish to take this experience home, Pre-made marinades for bulgogi (beef) and dak galbi (chicken) save time and deliver authentic flavor.
You can use it as:
- Marinate thinly cut meat for 30 minutes to overnight
- Grill or stir-fry with onions and peppers
- Serve with rice, lettuce wraps, and dipping sauces.
Dried Seaweed
Thin sheets of charred seaweed tempered with sesame oil and salt are light, flaky, and addictive. Moreover, they are rich in iodine and other essential nutrients.
How to Use It:
- Snack on them straight from the pack
- Crumble over rice or salads.
- Wrap around rice balls or sushi.
Tip: Pick up larger sheets if you plan to make kimbap
Frozen Mandu
You will get a combination of stuffing in dumplings, including beef, vegetables, and pork. These are simple and easy to make, which means you can relish them without spending a lot of time cooking.
How to Use It:
- Pan-fry for a crispy treat
- Boil or steam for a lighter option.
- Add to soups like mandu-guk (dumpling soup)
Top Brands: Bibigo, Pulmuone
Doenjang
Think of doenjang as the Korean cousin of Japanese miso. It is known for being funkier, earthier, and central to dishes like soybean stew.
How to Use It:
- In stews with tofu, mushrooms, and zucchini
- As a dip for fresh veggies when mixed with sesame oil and garlic
- In marinades and sauces
Korean Rice
No Korean meal is complete without the Korean small-grain sticky rice. The texture is perfect for use with chopsticks, making it easier to grasp.
How to Use It:
- In bowls for everyday meals
- As the base for bibimbap or kimbap
- Mix with barley or black rice for added nutrition.
Korean Snacks and Sweets
Everyone is going crazy over the variety of Korean snacks and sweets that satisfy cravings. Must-Try Snacks:
- Choco Pie: Chocolate-covered cake with marshmallow filling
- Honey Butter Chips: Sweet, salty, and buttery
- Pepero: Biscuit sticks dipped in chocolate or almonda
- Yakult Jelly: Yogurt-flavored chewy candy
Conclusion
Going to a Korean Mart is more than just grocery shopping; you get a cultural and culinary adventure. The list mentioned above suggests some of the best Korean food items that everyone should try at least once in their life. If you are looking to buy some of these items, then LotteOn is the perfect place. It offers everything you would like to try. You can visit its official website to find other related items.