Until about two years ago, my experience with Korean food was limited to occasional visits to a Korean barbecue joint. That all changed when I began watching (and obsessing over) K-dramas. All it took was 16 episodes of “Extraordinary Attorney Woo,” and I was hooked. Food and drinking often play a significant role in K-dramas, so with every new show, I became increasingly drawn to Korean food culture.
Not surprisingly, this has led me to cook more Korean food at home. Armed with a few pantry staples like gochujang, gochugaru, doenjang, and dried anchovies—not to mention a huge jar of kimchi—I’ve set forth on a tasty culinary adventure that’s taken me beyond Korean barbecue and into banchan, soup, stew, and even street food territory. I’ve discovered that while the flavors can be layered and complex, the recipes don’t have to be—like the ones we’ve gathered here. From deeply flavorful marinades, sauces, and dips to make-ahead side dishes and indulgent “drinking” foods like cheesy fire chicken, these easy Korean recipes will keep you coming back for more to satisfy your cravings.
