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Korean cuisine is famous for its variety, bold flavors, and colorful presentation. One of the most exciting parts of any Korean meal is the banchan, which are small side dishes served alongside rice and main dishes. When you sit down at a Korean table, you do not just get one or two sides. You often get many different banchan that bring balance, texture, and flavor to your meal.
If you are new to Korean food, banchan can feel overwhelming at first. But once you try them, you will quickly understand why people love them so much. Some are spicy, some are sweet, and some are refreshing. In this guide, you will discover the top 10 Korean banchan ranked by popularity, so you know exactly what to try first.
1. Kimchi
You cannot talk about Korean banchan without starting with kimchi. It is the most famous Korean side dish and is served at almost every meal. Kimchi is made from fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage, mixed with chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce.
The taste is bold, spicy, and slightly sour. If you are new to Korean food, kimchi might taste strong at first, but it quickly becomes addictive. Koreans eat kimchi daily, and many say a meal feels incomplete without it.
- Main ingredients: Napa cabbage, chili flakes, garlic
- Flavor: Spicy, sour, umami
- Why it is popular: It is a staple in every Korean home
2. Kongnamul Muchim (Seasoned Soybean Sprouts)
Kongnamul muchim is one of the simplest yet most loved banchan. It is made from soybean sprouts that are lightly boiled and then seasoned with sesame oil, garlic, and salt.
This dish is light, refreshing, and slightly nutty. It balances heavier dishes and is often served in large portions. If you want something healthy and easy to eat, this is a great choice.
- Main ingredients: Soybean sprouts, sesame oil
- Flavor: Mild, nutty
- Why it is popular: Healthy and easy to pair with any meal
3. Japchae
Japchae is a crowd favorite that you will often see at parties and celebrations. It is made with sweet potato glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables and sometimes beef.
The noodles have a soft and slightly chewy texture, and the dish is lightly sweet with a savory touch. Even people who are not familiar with Korean food usually love japchae right away.
- Main ingredients: Glass noodles, vegetables, soy sauce
- Flavor: Sweet and savory
- Why it is popular: Loved by both locals and foreigners
4. Gamja Jorim (Braised Potatoes)
Gamja jorim is a comforting side dish made from small potatoes braised in soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. The potatoes become soft on the inside while staying slightly firm on the outside.
The sauce is rich and slightly sweet, making it perfect with rice. This dish is especially popular among kids and anyone who enjoys simple comfort food.
- Main ingredients: Potatoes, soy sauce, sugar
- Flavor: Sweet and savory
- Why it is popular: Easy to eat and very satisfying
5. Eomuk Bokkeum (Stir-Fried Fish Cake)
Eomuk bokkeum is made by stir-frying fish cakes with onions and peppers in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. It is slightly chewy and very flavorful.
This dish is commonly found in lunchboxes and home meals. It is simple but full of taste, making it a go-to banchan for many Korean families.
- Main ingredients: Fish cake, soy sauce
- Flavor: Savory and slightly sweet
- Why it is popular: Affordable and widely available
6. Spinach Namul (Sigeumchi Namul)
Spinach namul is a healthy and refreshing side dish made by blanching spinach and seasoning it with sesame oil, garlic, and salt.
The flavor is mild, but the sesame oil adds a rich aroma. It is a perfect example of how Korean cuisine can turn simple vegetables into something delicious.
- Main ingredients: Spinach, sesame oil
- Flavor: Light and nutty
- Why it is popular: Nutritious and easy to prepare
7. Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)
Oi muchim is a spicy cucumber salad that is perfect when you want something refreshing. The cucumbers are sliced and mixed with chili flakes, garlic, vinegar, and sugar.
This dish is crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy. It is especially popular during hot weather because it helps cool you down.
- Main ingredients: Cucumber, chili flakes, vinegar
- Flavor: Spicy and tangy
- Why it is popular: Refreshing and great in summer
8. Gyeran Jjim (Steamed Egg)
Gyeran jjim is a soft and fluffy steamed egg dish that feels like a warm hug. It is cooked in a small pot and often served bubbling hot.
The texture is smooth and airy, almost like a savory custard. It is mild in flavor, which makes it perfect for balancing spicy dishes.
- Main ingredients: Eggs, water, salt
- Flavor: Light and savory
- Why it is popular: Comforting and easy to eat
9. Myeolchi Bokkeum (Stir-Fried Anchovies)
Myeolchi bokkeum is made by stir-frying small dried anchovies with soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes nuts. It may sound unusual if you are not used to it, but it is very popular in Korea.
The dish is crunchy, slightly sweet, and full of umami flavor. It is often eaten in small amounts with rice.
- Main ingredients: Dried anchovies, soy sauce
- Flavor: Sweet and savory
- Why it is popular: Great for adding protein and flavor
10. Baechu Geotjeori (Fresh Kimchi Salad)
Baechu geotjeori is a fresh version of kimchi that is not fermented. It is made with napa cabbage and seasoned with chili flakes, garlic, and fish sauce, but served right away.
The taste is fresh, crunchy, and slightly spicy. If regular kimchi feels too strong for you, this is a great alternative.
- Main ingredients: Napa cabbage, chili flakes
- Flavor: Fresh and spicy
- Why it is popular: Lighter and easier for beginners
Conclusion
Korean banchan is what makes Korean meals truly special. Instead of focusing on just one main dish, you get a variety of flavors and textures in every bite. From the bold taste of kimchi to the soft comfort of steamed eggs, each side dish adds something unique to your meal. If you are exploring Korean food for the first time, start with these popular banchan and slowly try more. You will soon discover that these small dishes are just as important as the main course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does banchan mean in Korean food?
Banchan refers to small side dishes that are served along with rice and the main meal in Korean cuisine. They are usually shared and come in a variety of flavors and textures.
Are Korean banchan free at restaurants?
In many Korean restaurants, banchan are served for free and can often be refilled. However, this may depend on the restaurant and location.
Can you make banchan at home easily?
Yes, many banchan are simple to make at home. Dishes like spinach namul and cucumber salad require only a few ingredients and basic cooking steps.
How long can banchan be stored?
It depends on the dish. Some like kimchi can last for weeks due to fermentation, while fresh dishes like cucumber salad should be eaten within a few days.
Do all Korean meals include banchan?
Most traditional Korean meals include banchan, but simpler meals at home may only have one or two side dishes instead of a full spread.
