Are you a spice lover looking to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the bold flavors of Korean cuisine! With its vibrant use of chili peppers, garlic, and ginger, Korean cooking is sure to ignite your taste buds. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of Korean spicy food. From comforting bowls of kimchi fried rice to savory stews like budae jjigae, these dishes are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned K-food fan or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered. So grab a pair of chopsticks and let’s dive into the world of spicy Korean cuisine!
Kimchi Fried Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of fried rice, making for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped kimchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Bibimbap, a popular Korean rice bowl dish, gets an extra kick from the addition of spicy gochujang sauce. This recipe combines the classic flavors of bibimbap with the savory and spicy notes of gochujang.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup sliced zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced beef (or tofu for a vegetarian option)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a pan and sauté the vegetables until tender.
3. Add the cooked beef (or tofu) and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and salt.
5. Assemble the bibimbap by placing the rice in a bowl, followed by the vegetable mixture, and finishing with a fried egg on top.
6. Drizzle the gochujang sauce over the dish and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Pork Belly (Dwaeji Bulgogi)
A sweet and spicy Korean-inspired dish that marinates pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, and gochujang for tender and flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, and gochujang.
2. Add the pork belly strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the pork belly for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
6. Serve with additional green onions if desired. Cooking time: approximately 30-40 minutes.
Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
This hearty Korean dish, also known as “Budae Jjigae,” is a unique fusion of flavors and ingredients that originated from the Korean War era. A true comfort food for many Koreans, this spicy stew is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sliced sausage (such as Korean-style hot dog or Choripdong)
– 1 cup diced ham
– 1 cup canned corn
– 1 cup instant noodles (Buldak Myeon)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add sausage, ham, and corn; cook until sausage is browned.
4. Add instant noodles, beef broth, soy sauce, and Gochujang; stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food, is a flavorful and spicy dish that combines chewy rice cakes with a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Korea to your table in just under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 200g tteok (Korean rice cakes)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice cakes according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, chili flakes, and water. Pour into the pan with the onion mixture.
4. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Add cooked rice cakes to the pan; toss to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this crispy and flavorful Korean-style fried chicken, marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their snack or meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, and breasts)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, chili flakes, and sugar.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite sides or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total (including marinating time)
Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)
A classic Korean dish, Japchae is a sweet and savory stir-fry made with glass noodles, vegetables, and savory seasonings. This recipe yields a deliciously flavorful and textured meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (dangmyeon)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic, stir-frying until translucent.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Add spinach and stir-fry until wilted.
6. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Galbi (Korean BBQ Short Ribs)
Galbi is a popular Korean dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe yields tender, flavorful short ribs that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
2. Add the short ribs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the ribs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately with kimchi and steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
Kimchi Jjigae, a spicy and savory Korean stew, is a staple comfort food that warms the heart and soul. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, perfect for beginners or those short on time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kimchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pork or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup tofu or other protein of choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi, broth, water, and Gochujang. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. If using, add the tofu and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Scallion Pancake)
A popular Korean dish, Haemul Pajeon is a savory pancake filled with a medley of seafood and scallions. This recipe yields a crispy and flavorful snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup diced scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup mixed seafood (e.g., shrimp, scallops, clams)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Optional: soy sauce and vinegar for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
3. Add scallions and seafood; mix well.
4. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve hot with soy sauce and vinegar (if desired).
Cooking Time: approximately 10-12 minutes
Sundubu Jjigae (Spicy Soft Tofu Stew)
Sundubu Jjigae is a popular Korean stew made with soft tofu, vegetables, and a spicy gochujang sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of soft tofu (sundubu), drained and cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons of gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender.
4. Add the tofu, gochujang sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bulgogi (Marinated Beef)
Experience the flavors of Korea with this classic Bulgogi recipe, where tender beef is marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the beef slices to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours 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 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve the Bulgogi hot with steamed rice and kimchi (spicy Korean fermented cabbage) for a authentic Korean meal.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gimbap (Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls)
Gimbap, also known as Korean seaweed rice rolls, is a popular snack or meal in Korea. This recipe combines the flavors of seasoned beef, vegetables, and savory rice wrapped in crispy seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 sheet of dried seaweed (nori)
– 1/4 pound seasoned beef (e.g., bulgogi), sliced
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cucumber, carrots, spinach)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice by mixing it with water and a pinch of salt.
2. Cut the seaweed sheet into desired size for rolling.
3. Lay a sheet of seaweed flat on a surface, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a small amount of seasoned beef, vegetables, and rice in the center of the seaweed.
5. Fold the bottom half of the seaweed up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a compact roll.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)
Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean dish that’s perfect for a casual gathering or special occasion. Thinly sliced pork belly, marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil, is grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the pork belly slices to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill the pork belly strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until crispy and caramelized.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as kimchi or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken)
A classic Korean dish that will leave your taste buds burning with flavor! Dakgalbi is a spicy stir-fry made with marinated chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a kick of gochujang (Korean chili paste).
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients. Add chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Add remaining ingredients to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Wings
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this addictive recipe for soy garlic chicken wings. A sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, rice vinegar, Gochujang, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove from refrigerator and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Toss with additional soy sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Gamjatang (Pork Bone Soup)
Gamjatang, also known as Pork Bone Soup, is a hearty and comforting Korean dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of pork bones, garlic, ginger, and gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to create a deliciously savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork bones
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 6 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the pork bones in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and gochugaru; cook until fragrant (1 minute).
4. Add roasted pork bones, water, and soy sauce to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with noodles or rice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Jjajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles)
Experience the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with this classic Jjajangmyeon recipe, featuring a savory black bean sauce and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g Jajangmyeon noodles
– 1/2 cup black bean paste (chunjang)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Jajangmyeon noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the black bean paste and water, bringing to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
6. Combine cooked noodles and black bean sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Corn Cheese
Savor the sweet and savory fusion of Korean-inspired corn cheese with this easy-to-make recipe! A popular street food in Korea, this dish is perfect for snacking or as a side to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together corn kernels, butter, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle with beaten egg for an egg wash.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the corn is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Patbingsu (Korean Shaved Ice Dessert)
Patbingsu is a popular Korean dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days. This shaved ice treat is topped with sweet and creamy ingredients, making it a delightful treat for the senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of shaved ice
– 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup of red bean paste
– 1/4 cup of crushed peanuts
– 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream
– Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, or mango)
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by shaving the ice into fine flakes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and red bean paste until well combined.
3. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the shaved ice.
4. Spoon the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the ice cream.
5. Sprinkle crushed peanuts and fresh fruit on top.
6. If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream to finish the dessert.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering Korean recipes! From classic dishes like Bibimbap and Japchae to spicy favorites like Kimchi Fried Rice and Tteokbokki, this collection has something for every palate. Discover new flavors with Spicy Korean Pork Belly and Dakgalbi, or indulge in comfort foods like Korean Army Stew and Bulgogi. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these recipes are sure to bring the heat and satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get cooking, and taste the bold flavors of Korea!
