John Myers
Introduction: North Korea’s Culinary Scene
North Korea’s culinary scene is often shrouded in mystery and misconception due to the country’s isolation and political situation. However, Korean cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and North Korea is no exception. Despite being limited in resources and ingredients, North Korean cuisine is known for its emphasis on fermentation, pickling, and spiciness.
Staple Food: Rice and Kimchi
Like in many other Asian countries, rice is the staple food in North Korea. It is usually served with a variety of side dishes, including the ubiquitous kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish that is a staple in Korean cuisine. Kimchi is made with different vegetables, but the most common ones are cabbage and radish. It is said that there are over 200 different types of kimchi in North Korea alone.
Iconic Dish: Naengmyeon (Cold Noodle Soup)
Naengmyeon is a cold noodle soup that is particularly popular in North Korea, especially during the summer months. The noodles are made from buckwheat, potato, or sweet potato starch, and are served in a tangy broth made from vinegar, mustard, and beef broth. The dish is often topped with sliced pear, cucumber, and boiled egg.
Comfort Food: Mandu (Dumplings)
Mandu, or Korean dumplings, are a popular comfort food in North Korea. They are usually filled with minced meat and vegetables, and are either steamed, boiled, or fried. Mandu can be eaten as a snack or as a main dish, and are often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes.
Street Food: Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki, or spicy rice cakes, are a popular street food in North Korea. The dish is made with soft and chewy rice cakes that are stir-fried with vegetables and a spicy sauce made from gochujang, a fermented chili paste. Tteokbokki is often garnished with hard-boiled eggs, fish cakes, and scallions.
Sweets: Yeot (Korean Taffy)
Yeot is a traditional Korean taffy that is made from rice or corn syrup, malt, and soy sauce. It has a chewy texture and a sweet and savory flavor. Yeot comes in different flavors, such as sesame, pumpkin, and cinnamon, and is often enjoyed as a snack or a dessert.
Beverages: Soju and Makgeolli
Soju and makgeolli are two popular alcoholic drinks in North Korea. Soju is a clear, distilled liquor made from rice, wheat, or barley, while makgeolli is a milky, unfiltered rice wine. Both drinks are usually consumed in social settings, such as gatherings and celebrations.
Conclusion: A Taste of North Korea
North Korean cuisine may not be as widely known or easily accessible as other Asian cuisines, but it is definitely worth exploring. From the staple rice and kimchi to the iconic naengmyeon and comforting mandu, North Korean cuisine offers a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Even if you can’t travel to North Korea, you can still try some of these dishes at Korean restaurants or by cooking them at home.
