31 Dec 2015
Tips & Tricks
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5 tips to save time in Korean cooking

korean cooks

5 tips to save time in Korean cooking

People might find Korean dish preparations as intimidating given the diverse ingredients being used and the wide array of side dishes that are available. However, we can guarantee you that Korean cooking can be possibly done in a highly efficient manner for as long as you prepare and observe the following tips:

 

1. Prep in advance as many ingredients as you can.

Chop and puree ahead of time whatever ingredients you can chop and puree. Ingredients like scallions, tomatoes, peppers and a lot more can be sliced in advance to save time. There are also some pre-chopped ingredients in the supermarket if you really want to save time or if you are in a hurry.

 

2. Marinate meat in bulk.

If you want to save on time and costs, then always shop for meat in bulk that are available in a good price. You then marinate them in advance and place them in your freezer for storage. Doing this is definitely a timesaver as all you’ll worry about is cooking the marinated meat itself. Plus, you can host more Korean BBQ feasts at home given your stock of marinated meat!

 

3. Always stock on Korean soups and broths

It is very common for Koreans to have soups on almost every meal, so it is always best to have soup stocks stored in your fridge just in case you have to prepare Korean dinner for unexpected guests. These are the kinds of stocks that take only less than 30 minutes to heat up.

 

4. Improvise on your side dishes.

We know that there are hundreds and hundreds of possible Korean side dishes out there. This idea alone can be daunting at first, but this actually gives a lot of room for improvisation because the side dish possibilities are plentiful. Side dishes can be as simple as grilled vegetables or anchovies anyway, so feel free to spice things up and devise new side dishes based on your tastes and on what’s available in your pantry.

 

5. Let modern kitchen tools save your day.

There’s a reason why rice cookers and crock pots exist, and that is to make your life at the kitchen much easier. Feel free to go to various kitchen stores or supermarkets to invest on practical tools that will make your cooking way easier and more efficient. For instance, using steam bags can be used to quickly steam vegetables. Indoor grills can also help you save time compared with the longer preparation of food that must be done if you do the grilling outside.

 

Now that we’re on the issue of saving time while cooking, we at Korean BBQ Online is more than happy and willing to help you save time. Planning your next Korean BBQ? Then feel the huge convenience of shopping for all that you need for your Korean BBQ only at Korean BBQ Online.

31 Dec 2015
culture, food, Uncategorized
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What makes Korean food Korean?

korean food restaurant

What makes Korean food Korean?

In a world that offers a massive array of cuisines from all over, the Korean food definitely knows how to distinguish itself. Today we are going to feature what makes Korean food distinctly Korean, and we believe that this is especially helpful for people out there who have yet to fully familiarize themselves with Korean cuisine. But for those who are already Korean foodies by heart and soul, we are sure that you will be nodding your heads in affirmation as you go through this article. Now allow us to brief you with the typical characteristics of Korean food:

 

1. Spice.
gochugaru
Koreans know their spice, and man do they use it so well. Vinegar, wine, garlic, sesame, ginger, bean paste, peppers, soy sauce, you name it. Koreans will never back down in intensifying their food’s flavors using a variety of spices. Oh the sensory feast!

 

2. Side dish.
banchan
It’s almost impossible to enjoy a typical Korean meal without a side dish, and honestly, these side dishes are actually already very tasty on their own. From the most popular Korean side dish of all time, kimchi, to the equally common ones like shrimps, fish, cabbage, lettuce, steamed veggies, and beef, ah, your meal is just bound for awesomeness. Make those delectable side dishes by checking out what we offer!

3. Meat, meat, meat.
eat galbi like a pro
Of course! This is why we all love Korean BBQ! We are all too familiar with the cuts, the marinades, and the dipping sauces. And how can we forget that distinct flavor and tenderness that only Korean BBQ meats can deliver? Check out our offering of marinated and non-marinated meats AND wagyus today!

4. Soups.
mae un tang
Koreans love their soups that are just packed with flavor. Regardless of whether you prefer having a hot and spicy soup to feel warm during the cold weather or just a simple vegetable and beef broth on a normal, sunny day, there are always a Korean soup that will suit your preferences and tastes.

5. Healthy balance.
healthy balance
Korean dishes are known for how healthily balanced they are. Yes, you have the meats, but Koreans don’t forget their vegetables and grains on the side. It’s very common for Koreans to wrap their meats using vegetable leaves for eating or to devour veggie-based side dishes to complement their meat-heavy feasts. Regardless of how much Korean cuisine has grown and evolved, this healthily balanced concept of Korean food has always remained.

 

Feel free to comment below on any characteristic of Korean food that we’ve missed! And don’t forget to check out our Korean BBQ Online menu so you can bring that awesome Korean dishy goodness conveniently to your home.

29 Dec 2015
food, how to, Korean BBQ
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Eating samgyeopsal like a pro

samgyeobsal wrapping

Eating samgyeopsal like a pro

Samgyeopsal is one of those pork belly dishes that you will almost always see in any Korean BBQ feast. What can we say – Koreans love their pork so much! The cuts for this meat are much thicker and are often served uncooked and unmarinated. This means that you will be doing all of the grilling and portioning of the cuts into smaller pieces so that they will be cooked evenly and thoroughly. That said, be prepared for all the smoke that will follow because it’s all part of the Korean BBQ fun!

Another delightful thing when ordering samgyeopsal is the variety of colorful side dishes and dipping sauces that will come with it. Kimchi, peppers, mushrooms, garlic, onions, ginger, lettuce, ssamjang, gireumjang – you name it. You’ll really be in for some gastronomic treat!

Once you’ve done your part in the cutting, flipping and grilling of the meat, then it’s time to eat the product of your labor. Don’t go fast in grabbing those chopsticks now because we will brief you on how to best eat samgyeopsal. Here are some basic steps on how you can eat samgyeopsal like a Korean:

  1. Take a piece of your lettuce or of the vegetable leaf that you prefer.
  2. Get a portion of your grilled meat, dip it in your preferred dipping sauce (i.e., gireumjang), and then put it on your leaf.
  3. Add the sides that were served to you depending on your preference. Ssamjang, kimchi, grilled vegetables, rice, mushrooms… the floor is yours!
  4. Once you’re done stuffing your leaf, you roll the leaf up just like a burrito and then eat the entire thing in one go.

And that’s it! Just some delicious explosion in your mouth right then and there thanks to samgyeopsal.

If you wish to enjoy samgyeopsal right at the comforts of your own home, then always remember that Korean BBQ Online is here to deliver.

How about you? How do you eat your samgyeopsal?

29 Dec 2015
food
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5 Korean dishes for non-spicy food lovers

bibimbap

5 Korean dishes for non-spicy food lovers

Koreans might be known for using a wide variety of spices to enhance the flavor of their dishes, but not all the awesome ones are spicy. So rejoice for lovers of non-spicy foods! You can still enjoy the best of Korean cuisine without the burning sensation and sweat that comes along with spiciness. Today we’ve compiled a list of some Korean dishes that foodies who don’t prefer the heat would definitely enjoy. Let’s get started!

Tteok-galbi (short rib patties)

ddeok galbi

Tteok-galbi (short rib patties) is a dish that is made out of seasoned, finely minced galbi. The grilled meat itself is very tender and is just a delight to eat with tteok (rice cake). This dish is also best eaten with plain noodle soup with non-spicy kimchi because the freshness of the soup will enhance the richness of this dish’s flavor. If this sounds deliciously tempting to you, then why don’t you make yourself one at home? Korean BBQ online has both marinated and non-marinated galbis that are ready to be delivered to your doorstep. Hassle-free on your end!

Bibimbap

bibimbap

Of course bibimbap is a part of this list given its immense popularity. The balanced nature of this meal is one of its appealing factors considering that you’ll get to enjoy strips of meat, vegetables, egg, and rice in one serving of this dish. You can even add your own toppings if you want to! And given that you don’t like spicy food, then you can always use soy sauce or butter to replace the red chili paste that people typically add on bibimbap.

Han-jeongsik (Korean table d’hote)

hanjeongsik

Han-jeongsik (Korean table d’hote) is another proof of how Koreans are fond of enjoying a very balanced dish. This is a traditional “complete” set meal that was historically eaten by the Korean upper class. You have your rice, vegetables and a wide array of side dishes.

Juk (porridge)

juk

Your typical porridge just got some healthy upgrade through juk (porridge). This light yet nutritious dish is just your healthy comfort food that will give you that extra energy and strength that you need on any given day. This porridge can also be digested easily and is really great for those who are recovering from sickness.

Saengseon-hoe (sliced raw fish)

sashimi (1)

Lovers of raw seafood, this is your moment! Saengseon-hoe (sliced raw fish) is not only tasty, it is also packed with nutrients that are not minimized because of the addition of unwanted preservatives. It is equivalent to Japanese “sashimi”. You can enhance the flavor of this dish by dipping the fish in soy sauce. And if you really want to continue your healthy eating streak, then you can even opt to wrap the raw fish in a vegetable leaf of your choice!
There are a lot more non-spicy Korean foods out there that are not included in this list, so feel free to share whatever you know on the comments down below. And if in case you want more non-spicy Korean food goodness, then check out what we offer only at Korean BBQ Online!

29 Dec 2015
Education, Meat
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Wagyu marbling score explained

wagyu marbling score

Wagyu marbling score explained

Wagyu steak lovers must have encountered the words marbling and marbling scores before. But what exactly are they?

Marbling refers to the white flecks of fat that you can see on a rib eye, for example, and marbling scores are determined based the distribution and amount of these intramuscular fats on the meat cut. These scores then form the basis of the quality grades of meats. Meats with high marbling scores tend to be more flavorful, juicier, and have a more superior texture compared with those that have lower scores, so make sure you keep an eye on meats with very visible marbling. On average, high-quality kinds of wagyu beef have around 20-25% of marbling. Don’t worry if you are health-conscious because marbled fats generally lower the bad kind of cholesterol (LDL) in our bodies, so we encourage you to go ahead and indulge in that wagyu steak once in a while!

Typical marbling scores range from a low score of 4 to a very high score of 12. Only the wagyu beef from Japan has managed to achieve a 12 so far, which explains why it is one of the most highly sought-after beef cuts in the world. Note though that the quality of a lot of Australian wagyu beef fares somewhere between 9 and 10, so the quality of our meet is also way up there. The visibility of the marbled fat is also evaluated based on the following criteria: abundant, moderate, modest, small, slight traces and practically devoid.

The herd of cattle that produce the best wagyu beef and achieve almost consistently high marbling scores undergo a thorough and detailed rearing process. A lot of these cattle, particularly those in Japan, are raised in enclosed barns that limit their physical activity (which explains the accumulation of marbled fat) and also prevent them from being exposed to grazing dangers. These cattle also have strict diet regimens that change and are adapted to the stage of growth that they are in. For optimal results, these cattle are sometimes given regular massages to evenly distribute their subcutaneous fats.

Now that you’re much better informed about marbling, it’s now time to order the best wagyu beef that you can possibly have here in Sydney. Get our top-quality wagyu beef to your doorstep! It only takes a few clicks on your end and we at Korean BBQ Online will take care of the rest.

29 Dec 2015
how to
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How to use your Korean BBQ hot plate

Korean BBQ at Home

How to use your Korean BBQ hot plate 

So you just invested in a Korean BBQ hot plate because you’re too eager to finally have your own Korean BBQ feasts at home. But do you actually know how to use them? If not, then we got you absolutely covered.

Here are some straightforward steps that you can follow so you can maximize the benefits of having your own Korean BBQ hot plate at home:

Step 1: Make sure you have your portable gas stove and cooking utensils ready. The primary utensils you will need are small tongs to turn the meat, and a pair of kitchen scissors.

Step 2: Stabilize your hot plate on the gas stove by using its feet. Both of their stands should be compatible so they can fit together perfectly.

Step 3: Light your gas stove and adjust the flame to max setting. Pre-heat the hot plate to the point where you can hear sizzling when the meat touches the surface of the hot plate. You may want to eventually lower the heat when the pace of eating slows.

Step 4: Always keep an eye on the meat that you’re grilling as overcooking them will create a lot of smoke. Put the cooked cuts of meat on the sides of the BBQ hot plate so that they will remain hot.

Step 5: Notice that the BBQ hot plate has a plug. When you are cooking meat with a lot of juices, leaving the plug in ensures that the marinade juices that you’ll be using won’t go anywhere when you grill. If you are grilling very fatty meats, you will want to take the plug out so that the oil drains away. Ensure you have a bowl to catch the liquids if you choose to remove the plug.

Step 7: Korean BBQ hot plates are very easy to wash and maintain. You can use warm water and ordinary dishwashing soap to clean it. Just avoid using abrasive cleaning materials to prevent your hot plate from getting scratches.

There you go! We at Korean BBQ Online wish you a very fun and awesome Korean BBQ feast, thanks to your easy-to-use Korean BBQ hot plate. Enjoy!

29 Dec 2015
recipes
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Recipe: Seasoned bean sprout side dish (콩나물무침)

seasoned bean sprouts

Recipe: Seasoned bean sprout side dish (콩나물무침)

Today we are going to feature yet another nutritious and tasty side dish that is common to see in almost all Korean meals – bean sprouts! Bean sprouts are known for a wide variety of health benefits, such as improving one’s metabolism, increasing your body’s fiber and good enzyme supply,  lowering bad cholesterol, enhancing the overall condition of your skin, eyes, and immune system, and preventing the occurrence of anemia. Given this wide range of benefits, it’s not surprising anymore why Koreans love their bean sprouts!

This bean sprout side dish is usually served plain with few thinly sliced vegetables like carrots and spring onions thrown into the mix, although some prefer to spice things up a little bit by adding chili and pepper. The bean sprout side dish recipe that we have below will quickly teach you how to make the plain type. However, feel free to experiment by adding more ingredients into the list to make your sprout side dish taste more interesting.

Serves 4 people

Prep time: 15min

Ingredients

  • One small bag of bean sprouts
  • carrot
  • Spring onion

Sauce ingredients

  • Perilla oil (들기름) 1T
  • Sesame oil (참기름) 1T
  • Salt 1T
  • A little bit of sugar
  • Sesame seeds
  • Salt when boiling the bean sprouts 1T)

 

Steps

 

  1. Add 1T Salt to boiling water.
  2. Wash the fresh bean sprouts.
  3. While scooping out the bean sprouts’ outer skins, add the bean sprouts to the boiling water.
  4. After the water starts boiling again, boil the bean sprouts for around 5-8 minutes until you can smell the distinct smell of boiled bean sprouts.
  5. After boiling, immediately wash the bean sprouts in cold water to give the bean sprouts a crispy texture.
  6. Drain away the excess water and then place the washed bean sprouts in a bowl.
  7. To create a nice colour, add a small amount of thinly sliced carrots and spring onion.
  8. Mix the perilla oil, sesame oil, 1T salt, little bit of sugar, and sesame seeds to form the sauce.
  9. Add the sauce to the bean sprouts, carrot, and spring onion mix. Mix well.
  10. Serve in a small side dish bowl and enjoy!

 

For your other Korean side dish needs, check out Korean BBQ Online.

 

Care to share how you make your own version of seasoned bean sprout side dish? Comment below!

29 Dec 2015
Blog
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5 essentials for doing Korean BBQ at home

friends eating kBBQ

5 essentials for doing Korean BBQ at home

Nothing beats the feeling of being able to have your Korean BBQ meals at home. And we are not only talking about the convenience that this experience gives, we are also stressing the awesome dining memories that can only be formed with your loved ones and peers right at the comforts of your own home. We are very sure that you are excited to host your own Korean BBQ feast, so allow us to give you a brief rundown of the 5 important things that you need to make that BBQ meal so on point:

  1. Get your equipment ready!

hot plate - round

Make sure that you already have a Korean BBQ hot plate and a portable gas stove or a charcoal grill with charcoal. In addition, we recommend you have a pair of tongs to turn the meat, and a pair of scissors to cut the meat into bite sized pieces. We at Korean BBQ Online are always ready to get these equipment to your doorstep and all you have to do is to order these items through us online. We provide the best equipment that you can use to start doing your own memorable Korean BBQ feasts.

  1. Get your meat!

marinated pork galbi

By now we’re certain that you already have some knowledge of the different kinds and cuts of meat that you can use for your Korean BBQ meals. The great news for you is that Korean BBQ Online has a wide array of marinated and non-marinated meats that you can choose from. Now you can conveniently order your pork bulgogis, pork bellies, rib fingers and even premium wagyu cuts online. There will be no more hassles on your end because we always promptly deliver every time, all the time.

  1. Get your greens!

greens

By now you know that Korean dishes are always balanced. It’s not only meat, meat and more meat. Leafy greens will always have a place in any Korean meals so make sure that you have enough stock of these nutritious veggies. Korean BBQ Online can provide you with the best quality wrapping lettuce and Korean perilla leaf that will just be perfect for your Korean eating sessions.

  1. Get your dipping sauces!

dipping sauces

Of course you will never forget to have those tasty dipping sauces that will only further enhance your meats’ savoury and juicy flavours. Whether you want ssamjang or some hot chilli for some spicy action, Korean BBQ Online will always ensure that you have dipping sauces to make your Korean BBQ feast completely special.

  1. Get your loved ones!

friends eating kBBQ

Family, friends, and even acquaintances… it’s time to finally exchange stories and make new memories at the dining table, thanks to your lovely Korean BBQ at home session. Great food is always best shared with others, don’t you agree?

Korean BBQ Online is glad to be a part of your unforgettable Korean dining experiences. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you have any questions about starting your own Korean BBQ feasts at home or about any of the products that we offer!

16 Dec 2015
Blog
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5 Stew-Licious Korean Stews To Try!

mae un tang

 

5 Stew-licious Korean Stews to try

Stews play a major role in Korean cuisine as it is almost always a part of any Korean meal. And no, these stews do not always just stay on the side – they sometimes even take the starring role. In this article we have compiled a list of 5 mouth-watering Korean stews that must be a part of your Korean BBQ feasts or your Korean dining experience in general:

 

  1. Doenjang jjigae (된장찌개) – (Korean Bean Paste) Stew
    doenjang jjigae

Think of Japanese miso but with a bolder flavour and stronger odour. This is exactly what Korean Bean Paste Stew is, a comfort yet nutritious food that will help you get through the coldness of the winter. Feel free to use your top choice of vegetables when you make this stew. Common choices are turnips, carrots, zucchini, and pumpkin. Eating this stew during Korean BBQ feasts is also great as it will prepare your body from all the meats that you will consume.

 

  1. Kimchi jjigae (김치찌개)– Spicy Kimchi Stew
    kimchi jjigae

Those who are not afraid of hotness can indulge merrily in the spicy kimchi stew. Just like the Korean Bean Paste Stew, this comfort food is perfect to consume during the winter season given its spiciness. If you want to give your taste buds that explosion of flavour just before you partake in a Korean BBQ feast, then this stew will definitely fail you.

 

  1. Mae un tang (매운탕)– Korean Spicy Fish Stewmae un tang

If you want a delicious combination of fish, vegetables, and spices into one dish, then this Korean Spicy Fish Stew will be a boon to your palate. The spiciness of this stew is neutralized by the sweet taste of the fish and vegetables, which makes it just perfect for a balanced stew.

 

  1. Samgyetang (삼계탕) – Korean Stuffed Chicken Soup with Ginsengsamgyetang

Meat lovers will definitely rejoice once they get a taste of this stew. Sticky rice-stuffed chicken simmered into perfection in garlic, ginseng, and ginger almost makes this stew a meal in itself. It also doesn’t help that this stew is not only delicious; it’s also fragrant. What a way to whet your appetite!

 

  1. Bulgogi jjigae (불고기찌개) – Korean Bulgogi Stewbulgogi jeonggol

This stew is one of the easiest ones to make especially if you just finished hosting a Korean BBQ feast and you have some leftover marinated bulgogi. Throw in some vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, zucchini or whatever other vegetable you want into the mix and you already have another balanced stew that will surely get your energy going for the next day.

What kinds of Korean stews would you recommend for us to try during the holidays?

16 Dec 2015
Blog, recipes
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Today is the Day You’ll Make Patbingsu

patbingsu

Today is the day you’ll make patbingsu

Oh yes. THAT Korean dessert. The time has indeed come because you feel that the experience of eating Korean meals at home is never complete without eating this delectable treat. Besides, who would say no to eating a chewy, crunchy, and creamy goodness to cap off a very lovely lunch or dinner? Especially now that it’s summer time? Only a crazy one.

Let’s start with this beautiful list of ingredients:

  • Ice (1 tray/bowl)
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • Sweetened Azuki Red Bean Paste
  • Matcha Powder
  • Fruit Cocktail
  • Ddeok/Mochi/Rice Cake
  • Ice Cream
  • Shaved Ice Machine

One of the great things about making patbingsu is that you have the freedom to make it the way you want it. You can choose whatever flavor of ice cream you want, or fruits that you want to put in. You can event leave out certain ingredients all together…it’s all up to you!

 

Steps

Once you have that beautiful mountain of shaved ice in a bowl, you can start putting in the sweetened condensed milk to make the patbingsu just as creamy as you want it to be.

The next ingredient that you can add is the red bean paste and matcha powder for some added flavor and color.

Lastly, put in the fruits, sticky glutinous rice and the ice cream of your choice.

Voila! You now have your patbingsu which you should eat right away before it becomes too soupy.

Here’s a question for you: if you are to make your own version of patbingsu, then what ingredients will it consist of? And have you actually tried encountering other amazing versions of patbingsu? Let us know your patbingsu experiences by leaving a comment down below!

16 Dec 2015
Blog, recipes
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A Bangin’ Korean Ddeok Guk Recipe for 2016!

ddeok guk

A bangin’ Korean Ddeok Guk recipe for 2016

Koreans know this too well, but allow us to orient those who are unfamiliar: Ddeok Guk 떡국 (rice cake soup) is a rice cake shaped in the form of a disk and is served in a very flavorful broth. This dish is very widely eaten during the New Year’s day, regardless of whether it is the Korean one (Lunar calendar’s first day) or the Western one (January 1). According to tradition, Koreans believe that eating Ddeok Guk will allow everyone to age a year older when the New Year comes in. Eating rice cake soup has been very significant during the New Year’s that asking someone if he or she has already eaten one is already equivalent to asking someone if he or she just got a year older. This dish also has its symbolisms: the clear soup signifies a fresh start for the year ahead, while the disc-shaped cakes symbolize money and therefore, prosperity. Oh we do say yes to new beginnings and riches!

It’s never too late to prepare your own Ddeok Guks just before 2015 waves goodbye. Here’s an awesome Ddeok Guk recipe that will help you look forward to 2016 in the most delicious way possible:

 

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sliced ddeok rice cakes (or homemade) soaked in cold water for 30 minutes and drained
  • 7 cups water
  • ½ pound beef (flank steak or brisket), chopped into small pieces
  • 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 dae-palarge green onions (or 3 green onions), washed and sliced  thinly and diagonally.
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce(or soup soy sauce to your taste)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 sheet of gim (black seaweed paper)
  • 1 red pepper (optional), chopped
  • salt

 

Make one today!

1.   Boil water in a pot for approximately 15 minutes.
2.   Put in the garlic and the beef in the boiling water and wait for around 25 minutes until you get a savory broth.
3.   Get a sheet of gim and heat both sides until they become crispy. Crush the black seaweed paper using your hands after putting it in a plastic bag.
4.   Separate the whites and yolks of the eggs and put them into two bowls. Add some salt and slice off the strings.
5.   Add and evenly distribute the oil to a non-stick pan.
6.   Turn off the heat. Pour the egg yolk mixture into the pan, spread the mixture evenly, and flip so that both sides will be cooked evenly. Once cooked, slice the egg into thin strips.

 

Put the rice cake, green onion, fish sauce, and salt to the boiling soup for around 8 minutes until the rice cakes float. Don’t forget to stir. The egg whites should also be put in for around a minute until it gets cooked. Afterwards, add the green onion, black pepper and sesame oil to taste. Stir properly and then they’re ready! Feel free to add some garnishing such as seaweeds, egg strips, and onions among others. Kimchi also goes well with this dish!

We are certain that you’ll be more ready to embrace 2016 once you get a taste of Korean Ddeok Guk.

What about you – do you have any favorite Ddeok Guk or other New Year’s Korean food recipes to share?

16 Dec 2015
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Top 5 Christmas Gifts for Korean Foodies!

Korean Christmas Chicken

Top 5 food-related Christmas gifts for Korean foodies

It’s the gift-giving season once again, but we at Korean BBQ Online are not too worried about what possible gifts to give to our buddies who are also Korean foodies. As you all know, there’s not a lot of things in this world that makes a foodie’s heart leap for joy than – what else – food.

Fret no more because we are here to address your gift-shopping woes. Here are 5 awesome food-related gift ideas to give to your pals who just can’t get enough of Korean food:

 1.  Fruit baskets
korean fruit box

Fruits are part of almost any Korean’s diet, so giving baskets filled with assorted fruits will always be warmly appreciated. Don’t be shy in putting in some mangoes, bananas, pineapples, plums, or even kiwis in those baskets. Nuts and even dried fruits can also be included into the mix.

 2.  Tea
tea gift

We all know the health benefits that drinking tea provides, and Koreans will be one of the first people to attest to this. Give them an opportunity to have more memorable tea-drinking experiences by giving them boxes of tea in different flavours. Persimmon and ginger seem to be the top favourites!

 3.  Indoor grill
korean bbq plate

Korean BBQ enthusiasts will just hug you right away if you decide to give them an indoor grill. Now you’ll give them a chance to host their own Korean BBQ feasts (and you’ll be the first one to be invited, that’s for sure) or just have small, intimate lunches and dinners right at the comforts of their own homes! Korean BBQ restaurants can be costly, and the weather can be unpredictable. But because of your precious gift, they can now grill their meats whenever they want to.

 4.  Lunchboxes or food bento boxes for the kids
bento box

Korean’s love for food definitely starts at an early age, and one way to please both Korean parents and kids this holiday season is to give them lunchboxes as gifts. Lunchboxes will somehow encourage parents to prepare food for their kids in a creative and awesome way. What a way to foster a parent-child relationship!

 5.  A book of Korean recipes
korean recipe book

The Korean foodies you know will rejoice even further if you give them a cookbook that details the steps on how they can whip up their favourite Korean dishes. What a way to unleash the inner chefs in them! It also doesn’t help that the images of the dishes featured in these cookbooks are just divine.

This list is far from being exhaustive, so we want to know your food-related gift ideas for the holidays. What food-related gifts do you think will make Korean foodies shriek with glee?v

16 Dec 2015
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Korean Christmas Fast Facts!

christmas fun facts

Korean Christmas Fast Facts

2015 flew by so fast that we are now in the month of December. And this only means one thing – Christmas is coming! We’re now smiling from ear to ear because it’s that time of the year again when we bask in the spirit of holiday cheer. I don’t know about you guys, but we at Korean BBQ Online believe that Christmas is hands-down one of the best holidays of the year. Seriously, who are we to complain about the free gifts and seemingly endless merrymaking?

But have you ever wondered how it must be like to celebrate Christmas in Korea? Do you think they also practice the same Christmas traditions that we do here? And do they also believe in Santa Claus?

I know we piqued your curiosity right there, so don’t worry – we already did some basic researching for you. Here’s Korean Christmas 101 for you all:

 

Christianity is a major religion

There’s a significant number of Korean Christians, and the religion itself is constantly spreading in Korea. This explains why Christmas is considered a national holiday in Korea even though Buddhism is the religion of most Koreans.

 

Korean Christmas Traditions

Yes, Koreans also do the usual gift exchanges and decorate their houses with bells, lights and trees during the Christmas season. The way they observe these practices, however, is a bit more toned down than what the Westerners are used to as Christmas in Korea is more of a religious holiday. There’s also a growing number of Koreans who just give money as a gift instead of buying an actual gift. Not too bad!

 

Santa Claus? More like Santa Harabeojee!

I know you’ve asked this question, so here’s the answer: Koreans do have their own version of Santa Claus, which they call as Santa Harabeojee. And just like the doting Santa that we all know, the Korean Santa also gives candies and other lovely presents to everyone. But don’t be surprised if you see a Santa Harabeojee donning an attire in blue and not the typical red!

 

Food, we want food!

Koreans are big food lovers, so it is already expected to see families gathering together during this holiday to share a good meal. Either they eat at the comfort of their own homes or they go out for a change to try new restaurants. Nothing really beats celebrating Christmas in Korea than surrounding yourself with loved ones, enjoying some good food, and exchanging stories at the dinner table.

 

Kpop music ruling the airwaves

In addition to the usual Christmas carols and jingles that are being played over and over again during the Christmas season, Koreans are also big on listening to Kpop music during the holidays. Kpop music is now invading the global airwaves all because of its trendy and catchy beats that are just perfect to celebrate the holiday spirit.

 

Discounts, promos, sales, bazaars!

There are still some things that remain the same regardless of where you are in the world, so I guess this is pretty much self-explanatory. It’s the holiday season, which means that it’s time for most Koreans to splurge a little bit on some gift-shopping and sale hunting!

Have you actually celebrated Christmas in Korea? And how do you celebrate Christmas in your family? We would love to know all of your Christmas traditions and practices by posting them in the comments section below.

Meri Keuriseumaseu! (Merry Christmas!)

16 Dec 2015
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Korean Dining Etiquette 101

Korean dining etiquette

Just before you down that galbi… Korean Dining Etiquette 101

Koreans love food. They love it so much that their passion for it became known worldwide. Given the significance that Koreans place on what they eat, it is then understandable that they also place high regard on dining etiquette.

I know that Korean food in general is truly irresistible and that the general atmosphere while eating can get cozy, but always remind yourself this basic tenet: never, ever forget your table manners. Remember those words of wisdom that your parents used to say to you at the dining table when you were younger? Those nuggets of wisdom can definitely come in handy. But given that Koreans have their own distinct culture, it is imperative to know how to best behave when you are eating with Koreans. Don’t just assume things, as they say, because the last thing that you want to happen is to offend your Korean host who just prepared a lovely Korean BBQ feast for you. So before you down that galbi, here is a brief summary of Korean dining etiquette that you should follow:

  1. Let the older people sit first

To be safe, always seat the last. Letting the older people sit first is a sign of respect.

  1. Express your appreciation before digging in

Don’t forget to say your gratitude to the host by expressing how much you’re looking forward to eating the food before you. In Korean we would say, “jal-meok-kket-sseum-ni-da”.

  1. Let the older people eat first

It’s the same thing for eating – always let the older people lift their eating utensils first.

  1. Never blow your nose while at the dining table

Or just excuse yourself if you really have to!

  1. Don’t eat like a caveman

You’re not in an eating competition. Always pace your eating so you can savour every flavour.

  1. Stop holdings the bowls

It’s time to stop the habit of holding your soup and rice bowls while eating.

  1. Double-dipping

Most Korean meals are communal, so do not double-dip.

  1. Consider others first

Offer to serve food to others first, including drinks, especially if you are dining with older people.

  1. Only take what you can really finish

Food wastage is a big no-no, so always ensure that the quantity of food that you put on your plate is something that you can really finish.

10. Hold with both hands

When you receive drinks or offer food for someone, then always hold the cup or plate with both hands.

11. Utensils on the table

Don’t put your chopsticks straight-up as they will resemble those sticks used for ceremonies for the dead. The general rule is that all utensils must be placed on the table.

12. Say thank you after a lovely meal!

Should this even be explained? Never forget to utter your best jal meo-geot-sseum-ni-da to your dining host.

Do you have any Korean dining etiquette stories to share? Or maybe you want to add something to the list above? Feel free to share your Korean dining practices on the comments section below!

15 Dec 2015
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5 Korean BBQ Meat Cuts You MUST Try!

marbled cube roll (ggotdeungshim)

5 Korean BBQ meat cuts that you should try right now

Learning the different types of Korean meat cuts can be intimidating at first, but we all know that nothing’s going to really stop a Korean food lover like you from learning anything, right? You’re definitely not a novice now when it comes to Korean meats, and now you’re determined to learn various Korean meat cuts so you can finally host your own Korean BBQ party.

For today we decided to feature 5 Korean BBQ meat cuts that may not be common but are still worth trying. So before you raid the supermarket and eventually impress your loved ones and peers with your mad culinary skills, allow us to orient you what’s the deal with the following meat cuts:

1. Hanjeongsal (pork jowl)
pork jowl (hanjeongsal)

These are meat cuts coming from the front part of a pig’s neck. The cuts for this portion are very detailed and you can only get a few of these cuts from one pig. Despite this limitation, this meat cut is known for its even marbling and is very much known for its silkiness, chewiness, tenderness, and juiciness.

2. Chadolbaegi (beef brisket)
beef brisket (chadolbaegi)

This is one of those meat cuts that must be sliced very, very thinly because of its heavy marbling. The way this particular cut is sliced (ultra thin) will then help it not give an overwhelming fatty taste to the dish. If you want to enjoy the marbling quality of beef without going over your budget, then this meat cut is for you. And oh, a piece of advice: chadolbaegi cooks easily, so always make sure that your eyes are on it to avoid overcooking.

3. Gotdeungshim (marbled cube roll)
marbled cube roll (ggotdeungshim)

If you are a fan of rib eye steaks, then rejoice! This meat cut is for you. The cube roll (or more commonly known as rib eye) is removed from the part that covers around five to twelve ribs of the animal’s carcass. The ribs are deboned during the process, making this meat cut versatile and just perfect for dishes like shabu shabu.

4. Galbisal (beef rib fingers)
beef rib fingers (galbisal)

This meat cut is known for its tenderness and, as the name denotes, is almost the same size as human fingers. It does not really matter if you want to braise, boil or grill this awesome meat cut. Just like chadolbaegi, it is very easy to overcook galbisal. You do not really want to eat tough beef rib fingers, so just make sure that you got your timing right when cooking galbisal.

5. Duck breast fillet
duck breast

This meat cut shares more similar characteristics with that of a red meat, although the way it is cooked is more or less the same as how you would cook other poultry meat. Although duck breasts have lower saturated fats, this meat is still known for its health benefits, such as fortifying one’s stamina and immune system. Tip: if you want a more tender and savoury duck breast fillet, then make sure you get the cut from younger ducks.

The good news for you guys is that Korean BBQ Online sells all of these meat cuts! We’re so excited for you to have a memorable Korean BBQ feast, so please don’t hesitate to send us an email if you wish to learn more information about any of these top-quality meats. And of course, feel free to comment below so we will know what types of meat cuts you like best!

14 Dec 2015
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Eat Galbi Like A Pro!

eat galbi like a pro

Eat galbi like a pro

So you finally know what galbi is, and perhaps you just tasted one for the first time recently. But do you actually know how to eat galbi the Korean way? Don’t get us wrong – you can eat it anyway you want (we promise we won’t judge), and there’s really no perfect method to eat it. But it would still be cool to know how Koreans actually eat it, and frankly, there’s no one else to best learn it than from Koreans themselves.  So let’s get started!


Pro-tip #1: Don’t only order food for yourself

One of the best characteristics of a typical Korean meal is its communal nature – you share the food that you’re about to partake with everyone else. So whenever you’re with your Korean friends, always do your best to order food that you know that the rest will also enjoy. The more people involved, the merrier the dining experience will be! Another tip is that when you order in a Korean restaurant, don’t go all out immediately with your orders as if you haven’t eaten for a thousand years. Only order dishes that you think you can finish, and then you order again when you feel that you still want to eat. Remember: wasting food is a big no-no!


Pro-tip #2: Wrap that galbi!

So we’re sure that you now know that Koreans use their greens like lettuce or cabbage to wrap their galbi. Some people prefer to put only their meats in their wraps, but some also add other sides like garlic, rice or even kimchi to increase their galbi’s flavour and texture. So you do whatever you want to do! However, one noticeable practice among Koreans when eating their galbi is that they put their wraps into their mouths on one go. They don’t bite it piece by piece – they just eat it as a whole! When you think about it, doing this will actually make eating galbi more pleasurable because of the explosion of flavour that will happen in your mouth!


Pro-tip #3: Grill your kimchi and garlic

For a more savoury burst of flavour, grill your kimchi and garlic using sesame oil before you put these two in your galbi wrap. You can of course opt to not touch the garlic if you don’t want your breath to have that strong garlick-y smell.


Pro-tip #4: Don’t miss out on the Naengmyeon or Doenjang jjigae

If you really want to eat galbi like a true Korean, then don’t hesitate to try Doenjang jjigae (soy bean paste stew) or Naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles). You might feel that eating either these two dishes is already a bit too much after all those wraps, but Koreans in general don’t feel that their galbi eating experience is complete if they don’t eat the noodles or stew.

 

There you go! I’m sure that you all have some galbi eating experiences or other pro-tips to share, so feel free to let us know everything down on the comments section below!

06 Dec 2015
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Why Everyone Loves Beef Bulgogi

The tastiest Beef Bulgogi from yours truly

When it comes to barbeque, we all love something that has the perfect grilled taste that is savoury, juicy, and of course appetising. Well, one thing that matches all of these descriptions is none other than Beef Bulgogi.

This is one of Korea’s best beef dishes that’s universally known for its amazingly delicious experience. The most common preparation method of this excellent dish is to marinate it before grilling it, commonly prepared using these ingredients: soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper. These prime seasonings can vary upon the person’s preference but still will result in a very tasty, one-of-a-kind dish.

Today, there are new and exciting ways of cooking Bulgogi, but the most popular is pan-cooking. This is commonly accompanied with lettuce and other leafy vegetables to wrap a slice of the cooked meat – also great with Kimchi and Ssamjang as a side dish.

This is a favourite among meat lovers in Asia, and also exponentially spreading across the world, which begs the question…why does everyone love this food? – Because it is absolutely so tasty and tender that it literally can be felt slowly melting in one’s mouth! Although, this also is defined by the quality of meat one uses, the better the quality of meat, the more delicious it gets.

In addition, a major reason that many people keep coming back for more of this cuisine is that it is a very bonding experience. Bulgogi and Korean BBQ in general is usually cooked together by the family around a cooking pan or grill. This gives the perfect quality time to bond with each other while grilling the meat and while waiting for it to be cooked. It gives time to catch up with your loved ones — your friends, family, relatives, or even newly met acquaintances, and provides a one of a kind experience that one will miss.

Here at Korean BBQ Online – based in Sydney – we take away the hassle and expense of having to go out to a restaurant every time you want to get your fix of Korean BBQ. Why not save your dollars and the trouble, and try our Marinated Beef Bulgogi right at home where you’re comfortable and cosy, making the experience more pleasing than ever before!