Korean BBQ

Being that my husband is Korean and enjoyed half of his childhood growing up there, the Korean cuisine has become a big part of my life as well.  If you have not discovered Korean cuisine, Korean BBQ is a great place to start.  Must also mention how healthy and balanced of a diet Koreans have, one of the reasons I love the cuisine so much.  No wonder, as a nation, South Korean people seem to be so health conscious and physically fit! 

Now if your diet is primarily westernized, some of their dishes may prove to be overwhelming and challenging to even consider but with an open mind, Korean BBQ is a perfect place to begin embracing the culture of South Korean cuisine. 

The big question is, what does Korean BBQ really entitle?  The basis of Korean BBQ revolves around the idea of communally cooking food at your table with family and friends.  At a Korean BBQ restaurant you will come in to find tables set up with a nice sized grill in the middle of each table. I love these tables. To grill, expect quality cuts of meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables to choose from. 

Choose a Combo, Any Combo...

Once you are seated, you'll probably be greeted and offered hot barley tea or water.  There will be given a variety of combo selections to choose from.  These combos vary in price but will often include a marinated beef sirloin known as bulgogi, chicken, kalbi beef short ribs, pork, prawns, squid and mixed vegetables to choose from. If you are feeling extremely adventurous you can even opt for a combo including beef intestines and other various organs, which although may be foreign to western cultures, eastern cultures prize these organs for their nutritional qualities. 

It's All About the Banchans!

After choosing a combo dish, get ready to feast!  Aside from the choice cuts of meats, true Korean BBQ always serves many many side dishes!  These side dishes are known as banchans and add such a nice contrast to the meats.  They are so good!  Banchans typically include kimchi, a fermented cabbage known as a staple to Korean cuisine, pickled white radish, cucumber, spinach, potato, green onion, and the list could continue. Every korean restaurant serves their own unique combination to side dishes.  Be bold and try these sides either separately or in between bites of the main meal for a nice contrast in flavor.  They know how to make the side dishes taste great while still using super healthy ingredients. 

When the server brings out with the combo plate, do not be shocked when a pile of uncooked meats comes out.  This is the thrill of the whole experience, the customers get to cook the meats themselves together.  And if you do need help, your server will be glad to help out.  The freshness that comes from the meats coming straight off the grill is amaaazzinng. Combined with the array of banchans, rice and salad, your tastebuds will reach a whole new level of happy. The best part about it is everyone can choose to eat what they like, tailor making the meal to fit their taste pallet and diet preferences.

Never have I left a Korean BBQ without feeling better than I did prior to walking in and so happily satisfied. And the great part about it, you can consume it all knowing you are eating a good balanced meal of protein, carbs, and key nutrients from all the selections of veggies. 

Hope you all enjoyed the post.  Broaden your comfort zone and try out some Korean BBQ! It will be an experience to remember and so tasty.  I absolutely love it. And if you have any of your own experiences with Korean BBQ, share them by commenting below, I'd love to hear! :)

Peace & love, 

Bri