Okay, I'm just going to say it: sometimes the side dishes are the best part of the meal. These Korean recipes are packed with so much salty, sweet, and spicy flavor that they completely steal the show.
1. Korean Macaroni Salad
You might think pasta and mayonnaise sounds like it belongs in Italy or France. But you will actually see this creamy and slightly sweet side dish at most Korean restaurants.
This version keeps it simple with macaroni pasta plus shredded carrots and dressing. Feel free to get fancy with apples or cabbage if you want.
2. Korean Fried Zucchini
These are basically fritters with a fun Korean twist. You just coat thinly sliced zucchini in a light batter of flour and egg for a crisp result.
A little salt is all you need for seasoning. I definitely recommend dunking them in a tangy or spicy sauce for extra flavor.
3. Kimchi
This jar holds spicy and salty fermented cabbage or radishes packed with major tang. A paste made from chili pepper flakes plus ginger and garlic gives it that unique taste.
It is a total probiotic powerhouse loaded with vitamins. I love that it can even help with cholesterol levels.
4. Korean Braised Potatoes
I am a major potato lover so this one is going straight to my favorites list. You get soft and chewy baby potatoes glazed in a slightly sweet sauce made from soy sauce.
It is hearty enough to be a meal on its own with some rice. You can easily add other veggies or chili paste for heat.
5. Steamed Eggplant
Summer means eggplants are in season and perfect for steaming. This dish is also called gaji namul and is a total staple that is super easy to make.
You just steam the eggplants and cut them into thin strips before seasoning. You are only 15 minutes away from a delicious side dish.
6. Korean Cucumber Salad
This star side dish is perfect for your next summer cookout. You might hear it called oi muchim since oi means cucumber and muchim means mixed with seasonings.
That is really all it is because you just need fresh cucumbers and seasoning. Do not forget the Korean red chili pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
7. Spicy Korean Rice Cakes
Prepare yourself for a spicy treat that will warm you right up. I love the chewy texture of these delightful rice cakes.
It is a classic Korean street food combining spicy and sweet flavors. I serve this pounded rice with fried foods or hot soup and it is just so yummy.
8. Korean Sesame Broccoli
Broccoli is always available so you can make this quick side dish all year long. Kids might not eat plain broccoli right away.
But they will love it once you blanch it and dress it up with sesame oil and salt. It becomes a yummy and crunchy nut flavored treat.
9. Korean Soybean Sprouts
You can take a break from the heat with these mild soybean sprouts. This popular side dish is a key ingredient for bibimbap.
The yellow part offers a nutty flavor while the white stem gives you a nice crunch. I also like adding them to Asian stir fries or noodle soups.
10. Korean Seasoned Spinach
You blanch spinach and season it with garlic plus soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. It is super easy to make and tastes so delicious.
This dish is known as sigumchi namul and appears almost daily in Korean homes. You will also find it in dishes like mixed rice with veggies.
11. Sweet and Sour Radish Salad
Thin strips of radish meet simple seasonings for refreshingly sweet and sour notes.
It uses similar seasonings to kimchi but adds sugar and vinegar for deeper flavor. Be sure to pick a tasty radish for a crisp texture and peppery taste in every bite.
12. Korean Coleslaw
This salad tastes quite similar to kimchi but offers more crunch. It is sweet and spicy and tangy all at once.
I think it makes a fantastic side for grilled beef or chicken. You get plenty of Vitamin C plus potassium and fiber in every serving.
13. Tuna Pancakes
You must try this recipe if you like your pancakes to be savory. These are seasoned to perfection with cayenne chili and green onions plus bell peppers.
The pancakes can even double as patties for a classic sandwich. I never forget the dipping sauce for complete savory pleasure.
14. Korean Crispy Mushrooms
You fry dried shiitake mushrooms until they are crispy and coat them in sticky syrup. Gochujang paste lends a spicy flavor that complements the sweet and sour sauce perfectly.
You can add garlic for more impact. I like to garnish mine with chopped nuts or seeds.