Korean street food is a delightful mix of traditional flavors and modern twists, offering delicious meals at affordable prices. Whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets of Seoul or visiting any corner of Korea, you’ll find a wide variety of tasty snacks and meals that are both satisfying and easy on the wallet. In this blog, we will explore some of the best cheap and delicious street foods in Korea that you simply must try.
1. Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – Spicy Rice Cakes
Tteokbokki is one of the most iconic street foods in Korea. Made from chewy rice cakes, fish cakes, and a sweet and spicy sauce, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. It’s served hot and is perfect for any time of the day. The flavors are bold, and it’s often served with a hard-boiled egg or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.
Where to Try: You’ll find tteokbokki at almost every street vendor in Korea, especially in areas like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Insadong.
2. Hotteok (호떡) – Sweet Pancakes
Hotteok is a winter favorite in Korea, and it’s incredibly affordable. These sweet pancakes are filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, then fried to a crispy, golden brown. The hotteok vendor will typically cut them open for you to reveal the gooey, sugary filling inside. It’s the perfect snack to keep you warm in the cold weather!
Where to Try: Hotteok can be found in street markets across Korea, especially in winter months. Famous spots include Gwangjang Market in Seoul.
3. Bungeoppang (붕어빵) – Fish-Shaped Pastry
Bungeoppang is a fun and delicious snack that resembles a fish. It is made by filling fish-shaped batter with sweet red bean paste and then grilling it to perfection. The crispy exterior and warm, sweet filling make it an irresistible treat. It’s similar to a waffle but in the shape of a fish, and the filling varies depending on the vendor.
Where to Try: Bungeoppang vendors are often seen in street markets or near subway stations during the winter. They’re available all year round in places like Insadong and Hongdae.
4. Gimbap (김밥) – Korean Sushi Rolls
Gimbap is the Korean equivalent of sushi, but with a unique twist. Instead of raw fish, gimbap features cooked ingredients like beef, egg, spinach, and pickled radish, all rolled up in a sheet of seaweed with rice. It’s sliced into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to grab on the go. This is a perfect street food for those looking for a light meal.
Where to Try: Gimbap is commonly sold by street vendors in places like Myeongdong or near universities where students often grab a quick, affordable meal.
5. Odeng (오뎅) – Fish Cake Skewers
Odeng (also known as Eomuk) is a popular street food consisting of fish cakes served on skewers and dipped in a warm, savory broth. The fish cakes are slightly chewy and soak up the delicious broth, giving them a comforting taste. It’s the ultimate Korean street snack, especially when it’s cold outside.
Where to Try: Odeng is typically sold at street stalls, and you’ll often see vendors serving it in busy areas like the subway stations or near busy streets.
6. Twigim (튀김) – Korean Fried Snacks
Twigim is Korea’s version of fried snacks, and you’ll find a wide variety of ingredients coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. From vegetables like sweet potatoes and zucchini to fish cakes and even dumplings, twigim is a crunchy and flavorful treat. It’s often served with a side of pickled radish for balance.
Where to Try: You’ll find twigim at street food stalls in places like Gwangjang Market or Insadong, where the fried snacks are served hot and ready to eat.
7. Mandu (만두) – Dumplings
Mandu, or Korean dumplings, are filled with a variety of ingredients such as ground meat, vegetables, and tofu. They can be steamed, boiled, or fried, and they are often served with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce. Mandu is a quick and filling snack, making it a favorite among street food lovers.
Where to Try: You can find mandu at many street food vendors and restaurants, particularly in food markets or near popular tourist spots like Namsan or Bukchon Hanok Village.
8. Jajangmyeon (짜장면) – Black Bean Noodles
Jajangmyeon is a savory noodle dish served with a rich, black bean paste sauce. While it is traditionally a sit-down meal, many street food vendors offer quick versions of this dish in smaller portions for people on the go. The combination of chewy noodles and savory sauce makes it a hearty option for lunch or dinner.
Where to Try: Some street food vendors in Seoul offer jajangmyeon at an affordable price, especially in areas like Gangnam and Itaewon.
Why Korean Street Food is So Special
Korean street food is not only affordable but also diverse, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer something sweet like hotteok or savory like tteokbokki, there’s a street food for every craving. The best part is that these foods are made fresh and right in front of you, giving you an authentic experience of Korean culinary culture.
Korean street food stalls are also a great way to experience the lively atmosphere of the city. Whether you’re walking through a busy shopping district or exploring a traditional market, street food vendors add to the vibrant energy of the place.
Conclusion
If you ever find yourself in Korea, make sure to dive into the local street food scene. From spicy rice cakes to sweet pancakes, the variety and flavors are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Don’t miss out on these amazing, cheap, and delicious foods that make Korean street food culture so unique!
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